(Seconded to Office of Aboriginal Education and Engagement for Sept 2020 - Mar 2021)
Hello, my name is Noelle Hanuse, and I am from the Wuikinuxv and Klahoose Nations of BC and have been a visitor on the beautiful territory of Snuneymuxw since January 2017. I am hired as the Indigenous counsellor, and I also see domestic and international students for counselling. I regard counselling as a healing art that I am honored and privileged to do and feel so blessed when I am able to help in some way.
My educational and personal journey is wide-ranging, as I hold a Bachelor of Education Degree from the University of British Columbia’s NITEP program (Indigenous Teaching Education Program), as well as a Master of Education in Indigenous Education and Leadership from Simon Fraser University, and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology: Indigenous Community Counselling Program (ICCP) from the University of Victoria. I also hold diplomas in Progressive Counselling, Natural Spiritual Healing and Transformation Hatha Yoga from the Self Realization Meditation Healing Centre in the United Kingdom. I am a lifelong learner and well-suited to supporting post-secondary students in their goals to realize their dreams.
I believe we all have our own wisdom and intuitively know the answers to our problems and concerns. I see my role as helping you to unravel the wisdom within and to understand yourself at a greater depth. I will not dig and delve unnecessarily into the past unless you ask or feel ready. Similarly, life patterns and habits that you wish to change will be addressed at your request when the time feels right for you.
The counselling I provide will help you to choose which way to go in your life regarding relationships, decisions, illness, or other pressing issues. Education and career matters can be explored, as well as partnership or family concerns, grief and loss issues, suicidal ideation, and substance misuse, all of which are viewed from a holistic perspective. My approach is strengths-based, as I honor a person’s resiliency and need for a safe environment that fosters a sense of self-determination, dignity, choice, and personal control. I understand that trust and safety must be earned and demonstrated over time rather than assumed. Therefore, I welcome the opportunity to build connections with you on treatment preferences and work collaboratively with you in every aspect.
When I’m not on campus, my life involves regular meditation retreats, reading, walking, yoga, dancing (in my living room), and being by the water. I am also planning to get more involved in making art, as well as trying out paddle boarding.