Deepen your impact
Throughout the series, you'll hear from leading professionals and practitioners who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in mental health and cross-cultural communication. These sessions are an invaluable opportunity to enhance your understanding and skills in supporting Low German-speaking individuals, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic approach in your work.
Don’t miss this chance to deepen your expertise and make a meaningful impact in the lives of those you serve.
Cost: $45 per webinar. Each webinar will include an in-depth Q&A session.
Topics and speakers
January 30, 2025
9:00am-12:00pm
Join us for an inspiring webinar titled "The Male Perspective," presented by Peter Dyck, who will share his personal journey of resilience and commitment while working with the Low German-speaking population. In this session, Peter will offer valuable insights into his personal and professional journey, highlighting the importance of resilience and commitment in supporting the Low German-speaking population. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a fresh perspective and practical advice from someone who truly understands the community’s unique needs. Growing up in a Low German Mennonite family in southwestern Ontario, Peter’s educational and professional experiences have uniquely shaped his approach to social work and mental health.
About the speaker
Peter Dyck grew up in a Low German Mennonite family in southwestern Ontario. He completed his entire education experience in Ontario within various Mennonite faith-based schools and the public school system. Returning as a mature student, Peter successfully achieved an Honours Bachelor of Social Work degree and subsequently a Master of Social Work in 2023. Peter has worked in the child welfare sector for the past five years and additionally has the privilege of journeying alongside a wide variety of individuals by providing mental health counselling in private practice.
February 25, 2025
9:00am-12:00pm
Gain valuable insights into the cultural dynamics affecting the Low German-speaking population. Join Katharine Enns and Susanne Froese, who bring a wealth of experience in the field of mental health combined with a deep understanding of the community. They will explore factors that contribute to mental health issues in this community, and the barriers that prevent people from seeking assistance. You'll receive practical take-aways to help you discuss mental health and connect with this community effectively.
Both Katharine and Susanne will be available for a live Q&A session, providing an opportunity to delve deeper into the topics discussed. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your understanding and improve your practice by learning from these seasoned professionals.
About the speakers
Susanne Froese grew up in a Low German Mennonite family in Leamington. She attained her BSW and MSW and has worked in the social work field for over 16 years. Her practicums and professional career include experience in research, child protection, community agencies, the public school system, children and youth mental health agencies, and currently in private practice providing counselling and psychotherapy to teens and adults. She previously worked extensively with LGM youth and families for 11 years supporting and re-engaging youth in high school opportunities and alternative learning options. She now provides general and faith-based therapy with some of her caseload being LGM.
Katharine Enns has worked in Mental Health for over 23 years, 20 of which have been at CMHA Thames Valley Addictions and Mental Health Services. Katharine has a Masters Degree in the Mental Health field from Fresno Pacific University in California. Katharine has worked with individuals from different cultural backgrounds but her work is primarily with the Low German-speaking population. Her work includes providing in-person support helping people work through challenging life situations, advocacy, translation in Low German and English and collaborating with other service providers. Katharine was born in Mexico into a Low German-speaking Mennonite family. She spent her childhood and adolescence in both Mexico and Canada. Canada has been Katharine’s permanent home since 1987 and she currently resides in Aylmer.