I first learned of the term 'therapeutic use of self' during my undergraduate program at the school of Child, Youth and Family Studies (University of the Fraser Valley, BC). This concept refers to a way of being, when through the use of our presence we are open to developing a deep connection with another, one which provides safety and support.  Once introduced to this relational intervention, my commitment to fostering the necessary abilities through reflective practice, became a critical need. The elements of this way of being have been described as including self-awareness, self-regulation, active listening, and empathic understanding. This learning constructed the foundation and piqued my curiosity for my ongoing exploration of the power of relationships.

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I was then offered an exciting opportunity as I was finishing my final practicum at the organization I am now a part of, the Fraser Valley Child Development Center.  The organization's social and emotional learning (SEL) program the CALM Curriculum had been the focus of a previous capstone project in this masters program. When offered the opportunity to create the parent/educators' workshop that would parallel the classroom learning from this curriculum, I eagerly jumped at the chance and "The Caregiver's Connection to The CALM Curriculum: Let's Be Curious About Behavior"  was born.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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This 'project of passion'  would comprise many of my waking hours over the next several years, first as a student and then as a Consultant, providing me with the luxury of my own 'field study'. As I facilitated this iterative, evolving program I was able to hone in on the recurring themes of inquiry; 

"What conditions need to be considered for meaningful social and emotional learning to take place?" And,

"What is the significance of the adult/caregiver's role in this learning?" Further,

"What competencies must adults possess to influence and support the social and emotional development of children?"

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When I entered this masters program, this area of inquiry was always acting as the filter for the lens of my learning; considering these questions was never far from my mind and influencing the direction my exploration would take .

 

This e-Portfolio is a representation of my learning journey driven by this curiosity, and shaped by my goals and the artifacts that support them. I hope as you browse through this site, through a review of my learning, you too will find answers to your questions.

 

 

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