Meet Kristen
Kristen Banfield is a settler whose colonial ancestors came from parts of Ireland, Poland, Britain and Scotland and settled on Turtle Island which had been inhabited by Indigenous people for time immemorial prior to colonialism. The land known as Chatham-Kent, Ontario is part of the traditional territory of the Chippewa, Odawa, Haudenosaunee, Potawatomi and Lunaapeew Nations. It is with great respect and gratitude that Kristen has been raised here, now raising her own family and carrying on her life’s work.
She has a university-level education in sociology, applied psychology and professional counselling. With extensive professional development specific to mandated child welfare, kinship services, and family finding, she specialises in a supportive approach to family engagement facilitation. She is a counsellor and professional member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. In a blend all her own, she will assist people during challenging and life-altering circumstances in finding the changes, and peace they deserve.
Kristen has excellent communication skills, genuine empathy and holds high ethical standards. With a focus on people, the importance of healing, and the strength found in natural networks, she will work alongside you, whether or not child protection intervention has or is impacting you and your family life.