Michelle Wood

Indigenous wellness professional, Associate Addictions Counsellor (AAC), and Elder-in-Training with experience supporting recovery, mental wellness, and culturally grounded healing across correctional, community, healthcare, and residential treatment settings. Drawing on lived experience, formal addictions education, and ongoing mentorship from Elders and Knowledge Keepers, integrating Indigenous teachings, Wellbriety principles, trauma-informed practice, harm reduction, and recovery-oriented care into all aspects of work. Currently pursuing designation as a Canadian Indigenous Addictions Counsellor (CIAC) through the Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF).

Known for building genuine relationships, creating safe and welcoming spaces, and supporting individuals in reconnecting with culture, community, and personal wellness. Experienced in group facilitation, cultural programming, community engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration, and supporting the development of culturally responsive services.

Addictions Counsellor (AAC) - Cedars Recovery Treatment Centre

(2025-10)

Including three-month secondment with Tsakwa'lutan Healing Centre

• Provide individual and group addictions counselling within a multidisciplinary treatment environment.
• Facilitate process groups, recovery education, Wellbriety programming, SMART Recovery, and mutual-support programming.
• Support clients in developing recovery goals, treatment plans, and relapse prevention strategies.
• Collaborate with families, referral partners, funding agencies, and clinical team members to support continuity of care.
• Contribute to culturally grounded approaches that support client wellness and recovery.
• Maintain clinical documentation, assessments, reports, and discharge planning.

Indigenous Cultural Liaison - John Howard Society of Victoria - Vancouver Island Regional Correctional Centre

(2023-11 - 2025-09)

• Developed and facilitated Indigenous cultural, wellness, and recovery programming within a provincial correctional setting.
• Provided one-to-one cultural support, mentorship, advocacy, and wellness guidance to incarcerated individuals.
• Facilitated Wellbriety groups, Sacred Space Gatherings, Talking Circles, cultural teachings, and traditional arts programming.
• Planned and supported ceremonies, cultural events, and observances recognizing significant Indigenous dates and traditions.
• Collaborated with Elders, correctional staff, healthcare professionals, and community organizations to strengthen culturally responsive supports.
• Supported cultural safety and Indigenous awareness

Support Worker II - Mental Health & Substance Use Services - Island Health - Vancouver Island

(2018 - 2025)

Worked across hospital, outreach, community, addictions medicine, and intensive case management programs throughout Vancouver Island.

• Supported individuals experiencing mental health, substance use, housing, and social challenges.
• Built therapeutic relationships using recovery-oriented, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approaches.
• Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop and support individualized care plans.
• Connected clients with treatment, healthcare, housing, income, cultural, and community resources.
• Provided harm reduction education and practical support.
• Contributed to integrated mental health and substance use services across diverse care settings.

Case Manager - INEO Employment Services

Sobering & Assessment Worker - Port Alberni Shelter Society

Crisis Support & Liaison Worker - Kuu-us Crisis Line Society

Human Services Practicum Student - Port Alberni Friendship Centre and Alberni Valley Hospice Society

Town Councillor - Town of Brooks, Alberta - Brooks, Alberta

• Served as an elected municipal representative.
• Participated in policy review, community planning, and public decision-making processes.
• Collaborated with community members, municipal leadership, boards, and committees.
• Acted as a liaison between residents and local government.

Owner/Engineering Technologist - Cusp Consulting Inc.

• Operated a successful consulting business serving multiple industries.
• Managed client relationships, project delivery, and contract development.
• Mentored and trained junior staff.
• Developed and instructed AutoCAD curriculum for post-secondary learners.

Certificate - Addiction Care and Treatment - University of British Columbia

Diploma - Human Services - North Island College