Brooke Wortsman, MEd

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 Curiosity and connection have always been my driving forces. They have led me on a winding path that has included teaching, volunteering in crisis response, furthering my education, and much more.  My desire to learn from experience has taken me around the world teaching English. I learned the joys and challenges of supporting individuals with diverse social-emotional needs. Using strengths-based approaches to learning, I collaborated with colleagues and students to co-design culturally relevant, individualized, and multidimensional educational programs.  During the pandemic, I volunteered as a crisis responder. I supported individuals across Canada in coping with mental illness, trauma, abuse, suicidality, and loneliness. Crisis response illustrated the uniqueness of each individual's story and the validity of our feelings.  

 I have completed a Master of Education in Developmental Psychology and Education at the University of Toronto's Ontario Insitute for Studies in Education and a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Psychology at Queen's University. My master's research focused on risk and resiliency processes and brain development. My degree included a variety of courses including "proactive behavioural intervention", "developmental psychopathology", "mental health in the classroom", "privilege, power & oppression", and "mind, brain, & instruction".   

The combination of my experience and education allows me to bring both scientific and craft knowledge to my work. Beyond that, I bring an unrelenting passion for mental health and education.  

My hobbies include reading, knitting, yoga, cycling, and baking. I am an optimist and a lifelong learner - I approach every situation with an open heart and mind. I am so grateful to be part of life's journey with you!