The conscious forgiveness process inherent in the Becoming Method® has many surprising and positive health benefit. As the traumatic wounds are visited and healed, physical disorders improve and frequently disappear altogether. Pathological and psychosomatic processes cease and client experiences a return to optimal functioning.
Our faculty teach from lived experience, clinical expertise, and a commitment to healing—creating learning environments where students feel seen, supported, and challenged to grow.
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We draw on evidence-based approaches—including trauma-informed practice, adult learning theory, somatic integration, reflective learning, and interdisciplinary methods—to create a learning environment that is rigorous, relational, and deeply transformative. But beyond theory and technique, our faculty teach from a place of presence, self-awareness, and shared humanity.
Our approach is also inspired by the African philosophy of Ubuntu, which reminds us that “I am because we are.” Ubuntu teaches that growth is communal, knowledge is co-created, and healing is most powerful when it honours the dignity and wholeness of every person.
In this spirit, we foster spaces where:
Whether in a classroom, practicum, or clinical seminar, our students are invited not only to develop technical skills but also to embody the values of compassion, courage, and interconnection that define truly trauma-informed care.
Let whoever is in charge keep this simple question in their head—not, how can I always do this right thing myself but—how can I provide for this right thing to be always done?
Florence Nightingale didn’t just change how we care for the sick—she redefined the structure of care itself. At a time when nursing was largely an informal act of devotion carried out by religious women, Nightingale built a model of training, documentation, and accountability that transformed caregiving into a respected, regulated profession. She brought order, discipline, and deep compassion to the chaos of war and illness, laying the foundation for the modern hospital system.
This quote is not just a call to action—it is the architecture of system reform. And today, at the Becoming Institute, we believe that nursing once again stands at the edge of a transformational shift.
Just as Nightingale created the infrastructure that turned care into a profession, we are now building a structure that allows nurses to step fully into their role as leaders in trauma recovery, mental health promotion, and systems transformation.
The Becoming Institute’s RN–Psychotherapist Credentialing Program is designed to equip nurses with the tools to support individuals, families, and entire communities in ending intergenerational trauma. This work is grounded in clinical practice, ethical care, and a commitment to healing at every level—biological, psychological, historical, and spiritual.
Our approach doesn’t remove nurses from their roots—it amplifies them. It honours:
The Becoming Institute’s values—Freedom of the Human Spirit, Transformation & Balance, Faith Expressed Through Love, Truth, Community of Excellence, and A Legacy of Peace—are not foreign to nursing. They are its foundation.
The RN–Psychotherapist Credentialing Program is creating the professional framework that allows nurses to lead in trauma recovery—not informally or incidentally, but intentionally, ethically, and within scope.
Just as Nightingale reshaped the architecture of care in her time, we now invite you to help shape the next evolution in mental health and community healing.
This moment is not about changing who you are—
It’s about expanding the space for who you’ve always been.
You are the healer.
You are the leader.
You are the future.
Sophia Ali, MBA, BSW, RSW
Faculty, Becoming Institute | Executive Director, Manitoba Alliance of Health Regulatory Colleges
Specialization: Equity-Informed Leadership, Trauma-Informed Systems Design
Born and raised in Winnipeg on Treaty 1 Territory, Sophia Ali is a dynamic second-generation immigrant, social work leader, and strategic systems thinker. As Executive Director of the Manitoba Alliance of Health Regulatory Colleges, she plays a key role in advancing interprofessional collaboration, policy innovation, and culturally responsive regulation across Manitoba’s health sector.
With a career spanning community health, psychotherapy, and systems leadership, Sophia has held impactful roles at Aulneau Renewal Centre, Klinic Community Health Centre, and Youville Centre. She also operates a private practice, Wisdom Speaks Counselling & Consulting, where she integrates trauma-informed care, clinical social work, and organizational consulting.
Sophia holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Bachelor of Social Work, and a Master of Business Administration—reflecting her rare blend of clinical insight and executive acumen. She shares her knowledge widely as a faculty member at the University of Winnipeg, Mohawk College, and the University of Manitoba, where she teaches with a focus on equity, ethics, and leadership.
A dedicated community advocate, Sophia serves on several boards, including the Canadian Race Relations Foundation, the Manitoba Islamic Association Mental Health Initiative, and the Institute of Corporate Directors (Manitoba Chapter). Her work reflects a deep commitment to systems change that empowers practitioners and promotes healing across sectors and communities.
Dr. Afsheen Anwar, Ph.D., C.Psych
Faculty, Becoming Institute | Clinical & Counselling Psychologist
Specialization: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Faith-Informed Practice, Relational & Systemic Therapy
Dr. Afsheen Anwar is a Clinical and Counselling Psychologist with over 23 years of experience providing psychological assessment and therapy to individuals, couples, and families in both individual and group settings. Originally from Pakistan and now based in Ontario, she brings a deeply multicultural lens to her practice, drawing from her Southeast Asian and Muslim roots and her years of work across national and international contexts since 2000.
Dr. Anwar is known for her warm, compassionate presence and her ability to meet clients with both professionalism and deep empathy. Her integrative approach to therapy draws from a variety of evidence-based modalities, including cognitive behavioural therapy, emotion-focused therapy, mindfulness, and relational/systemic models. She tailors each treatment plan to the unique needs and worldviews of her clients—including those seeking faith-informed support from major religious traditions.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Anwar has been an educator, consultant, and public speaker across diverse cultural and academic settings. She also brings a unique specialization in aviation-related care, offering contextualized services for individuals experiencing flying phobia and for aviation professionals—drawing on her experience as a trained private pilot.
With a lifelong commitment to human growth, resilience, and culturally attuned care, Dr. Anwar continues to make a profound impact in the field of psychotherapy, both in Canada and internationally.
Jenn Cardoso, M.A., RP
Faculty, Becoming Institute | Somatic Coach & Registered Psychotherapist
Specialization: Relational Psychotherapy, Somatic Healing, Trauma-Responsive Care
Jenn Cardoso is a psychotherapist, somatic coach, and educator devoted to helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of connection, healing, and inner transformation. With a deep respect for both science and soul, she blends somatic and relational approaches to support clients in cultivating clarity, confidence, and intimacy—in their relationships with themselves, others, and the world around them.
Jenn holds a Master’s in Counselling Psychology and is a certified yoga teacher with advanced training in trauma-informed movement and trauma-responsive care. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in presence—body to body, heart to heart—where healing becomes both a clinical process and a sacred invitation to be seen, felt, and heard.
Whether working with individuals, couples, or significant others, Jenn creates an empowering and judgment-free space where clients can safely explore their emotions, identities, and aspirations. She honours each person’s story, while helping them build the practical skills to communicate needs, deepen intimacy, and move toward more fulfilling relationships.
As a faculty member and lecturer with the Becoming Institute, Jenn brings a grounded, heartfelt energy to her teaching. She is known for her embodied presence, clinical integrity, and deep love for the healing journey. Outside of her professional work, she’s a devoted mom to her beloved four-legged companions and a quiet champion of the More-Than-Human world, always guided by a deep belief in interconnection and reverence.
Jacklyn Chung, M.Ed., RP, CCC
Faculty, Becoming Institute | Founder, Karkiu Psychotherapy and Counselling
Specialization: Culturally Sensitive Psychotherapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Feminist & Relational Practice
Jacklyn Chung is a Registered Psychotherapist, educator, and the founder of Karkiu Psychotherapy and Counselling. With over a decade of experience in mental health and education, she brings a grounded, client-centered approach to healing—one that honours identity, lived experience, and the complexity of being human.
Jacklyn holds a Master of Teaching from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) and a Master of Education in Counselling Psychology from the University of Ottawa. Her career spans clinical work in post-secondary institutions, community organizations, private group practice, and corporate wellness settings. At the heart of her practice is a deep respect for the healing power of relationships and the courage it takes to live authentically.
Drawing on trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and feminist frameworks, Jacklyn helps clients navigate issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, grief, and relationships. Her therapeutic style is intuitive, compassionate, and focused on helping individuals unpack their past, regulate their inner experience, and create lives aligned with their values.
As Clinical Director at Karkiu Psychotherapy, Jacklyn is committed to building a practice that centers safety, authenticity, and empowerment. As a faculty member at the Becoming Institute, she shares that same vision with students—encouraging future therapists to lead with humility, curiosity, and a deep belief in collective healing.
Whether in the therapy room or the classroom, Jacklyn creates spaces where people can rediscover themselves, build resilience, and embrace the healing possibilities of community and connection.
Jamieson Eakin, MACP, BFA, RP
Faculty, Becoming Institute | Registered Psychotherapist
Specialization: LGBTQ+ Mental Health, Narrative Therapy, Somatic & Creative Approaches
Jamieson Eakin is a Registered Psychotherapist, artist, and educator dedicated to creating inclusive, affirming spaces for healing and growth. He specializes in working with members of the 2SLGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, neurodivergent individuals, and those navigating trauma, identity, and relationship challenges. His approach is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and a deep belief in the power of meaning-making to transform lives.
Jamieson’s practice blends Narrative, Cognitive, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy with Internal Family Systems, somatic strategies, and social-constructivist frameworks. He fosters a person-centered, strengths-based environment that supports self-efficacy, mindfulness, and creative expression as tools for emotional regulation and personal empowerment.
A graduate of Yorkville University’s Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology program, Jamieson also holds a B.A. in Counselling Psychology and a B.F.A. with honours in Music from York University. His journey into psychotherapy began through community outreach and the arts—where he witnessed firsthand the role of creativity in processing emotion, accessing inner wisdom, and building supportive networks.
As a faculty member at the Becoming Institute, Jamieson brings his interdisciplinary lens and lived experience into the classroom, inspiring students to cultivate clinical intuition, cultural humility, and authenticity. His work reflects a commitment to accessibility, liberation, and healing that is both personal and collective.
Chantal Gray, MSW, RSW
Faculty, Becoming Institute | Co-Founder & Clinical Director, Winrose Oasis Counselling Services
Specialization: Trauma-Informed Practice, Child & Family Therapy, Cultural Healing & Intergenerational Care
Chantal Gray is a Registered Social Worker, clinical leader, and community healer with a decade of experience supporting individuals and families through trauma-informed, culturally responsive care. She is the Co-Founder and Clinical Director of Winrose Oasis Counselling Services, a private practice dedicated to holistic wellness, intergenerational healing, and mental health empowerment.
Chantal’s practice is rooted in the belief that every individual carries innate strengths that, when nurtured in the right environment, can guide their healing and growth. She works with children, youth, adults, and families, drawing on a diverse toolkit that includes cognitive behavioural therapy, trauma counselling, play therapy, and EMDR. Whether supporting clients through anxiety, grief, life transitions, or systemic stressors, she brings gentleness, clinical depth, and unwavering compassion.
A graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University’s Master of Social Work program and a registered member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, Chantal integrates over a decade of experience in schools, healthcare, nonprofit, and private practice settings. She is also a skilled group facilitator, program developer, and clinical supervisor.
As a faculty member with the Becoming Institute, Chantal is passionate about mentoring emerging practitioners. Her teaching emphasizes empathy, advocacy, and cultural humility as foundational to ethical and effective care. Outside of her clinical and academic work, she is an author of children’s literature and a speaker on community wellness, mental health equity, and the power of culturally rooted healing.
Dr. Joan Samuels-Dennis, Ph.D., RN
Founder, The Becoming Institute | Creator of The Becoming Method®
Specialization: Trauma Recovery, Epigenetics, Systems Change, and Holistic Mental Health
Dr. Joan Samuels-Dennis is a visionary nurse–psychotherapist, educator, and thought leader transforming the landscape of mental health and trauma recovery in Canada. With over 25 years of experience spanning public health, psychotherapy, and systems design, she brings a uniquely integrative approach to healing—one that bridges science, spirituality, and social justice.
As the founder of The Becoming Institute and the developer of The Becoming Method®, Dr. Joan has created Canada’s first RN–Psychotherapist Credentialing Program and a full suite of trauma-informed training programs that equip nurses and allied professionals with the tools to lead in clinical practice, community mental health, and intergenerational healing.
Her work centers on uncovering the roots of trauma—biological, psychological, generational, and spiritual—and developing pathways to healing that are evidence-based, culturally responsive, and soul-aligned. She is known for translating complex clinical concepts into accessible, compassionate frameworks that empower both practitioners and clients to reclaim their voice, their wholeness, and their place in community.
Dr. Joan is a powerful advocate for interprofessional collaboration, regulatory clarity, and educational equity within nursing and psychotherapy. Her approach is grounded, bridge-building, and driven by a deep belief in the potential of every individual to heal and lead. She is widely recognized for her ability to create programs and systems that not only transform lives, but reshape the future of care in Canada.
Ruth Bingham, MSW, RSW
Faculty, Becoming Institute | Co-Founder, Winrose Oasis Counselling Services
Specialization: Intergenerational Trauma, Faith-Integrated Healing, Women’s Emotional Wellness
Ruth Bingham is a Registered Social Worker, wellness advocate, and co-founder of Winrose Oasis Counselling Services. With over a decade of experience supporting individuals, families, and communities, Ruth is known for her spiritually grounded, culturally affirming approach to trauma recovery and emotional healing.
Her work focuses on helping clients navigate the impacts of intergenerational trauma, spiritual disconnection, life transitions, and relational challenges. Ruth blends mainstream clinical methods—including cognitive behavioural therapy, brief solution-focused therapy, and narrative approaches—with holistic and faith-integrated healing traditions. Her practice is deeply person-centered and strengths-based, emphasizing the restoration of dignity, self-worth, and inner peace.
Ruth holds a Master of Social Work degree from Wilfrid Laurier University and brings expertise in anxiety, depression, grief, parenting, self-esteem, and Christian counselling. She has a special passion for supporting midlife women and individuals seeking meaning, purpose, and authentic connection.
In her role as faculty at the Becoming Institute, Ruth offers students a rare blend of clinical wisdom, spiritual insight, and cultural responsiveness. Whether teaching, counselling, or speaking publicly, she is dedicated to restoring hope and cultivating wholeness—body, mind, and spirit—through grounded, compassionate care.
Our faculty brings real-world clinical experience, cultural humility, and a deep commitment to healing. Download our free guide to explore 7 key questions to help you choose the right program and the right educators to support your path.
The Becoming Institute invites expressions of interest from professionals who are passionate about advancing trauma-informed care through education, mentorship, and systems leadership.
We are currently welcoming inquiries from:
Many of our teaching and supervisory roles offer flexible hours and remote options, making it possible to contribute meaningfully while maintaining your own practice.
At the Becoming Institute, we are building a team of educators and clinicians who lead with integrity, cultural humility, and a deep commitment to healing intergenerational trauma. If this resonates with your approach to teaching and care, we encourage you to reach out.
We strongly encourage applications from individuals who identify as Black, Indigenous, racialized, LGBTQIA2S+, disabled, or who bring lived experience that reflects the diverse communities we serve.
To inquire or apply, please send a brief introduction and your CV to:
📩 hr@lemonchiffon-frog-117233.hostingersite.com
We review applications on a rolling basis and will reach out directly to those shortlisted for an interview or exploratory conversation.
Whether you’re a prospective student, a future faculty member, or simply curious about our work—thank you for taking the time to meet our team.
We’d love to stay in touch. When you join our community, you’ll get practical tools, program updates, and insights that support your work and personal growth.
If our approach to healing, education, and systems change speaks to you, this is a good place to be.
If you have questions or want to learn more about our programs, partnerships, or upcoming cohorts, we’d love to hear from you.
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Introduction to Psychotherapy
Mindful Fitness: SelfHealing Practices for Psychotherapists
Forgiveness & Holistic Trauma Recovery
Ubuntu: African & Indigenous Ways of Knowing & Being
Introduction to Psychotherapy
Mindful Fitness: SelfHealing Practices for Psychotherapists
Forgiveness & Holistic Trauma Recovery
Ubuntu: African & Indigenous Ways of Knowing & Being
Every contribution makes a difference! Your support helps provide scholarships, resources, and opportunities for students to succeed. Together, we can transform lives and create a future of healing and empowerment.
Dr. Joan Samuels-Dennis,
Dean, School of Psychotherapeutic Innovations
Becoming Institute Inc
Get the guide to explore certification pathways, part-time workshops and learning outcomes.