Sarah Pineda

Who Am I?

Sarah Pineda holds a Master of Social Work with a specialization in Indigenous Field of Study from Wilfrid Laurier University. A proud Mesoamerican social worker, she combines over a decade of experience in counselling and community-based program development with a passion for advancing Indigenous self-determination and wholistic healing.

In addition to Social Work - As a seasoned public relations consultant, Sarah has supported national non-profits, Indigenous leaders, models and artists, managing strategic marketing initiatives and media relations to amplify voices and foster collaboration. Her extensive work includes spearheading projects addressing systemic issues such as economic and educational discrimination, intergenerational trauma, and the legacies of colonialism.
 

Beyond her direct counselling work, Sarah is an advocate for mental health awareness, cultural preservation, and systemic change. She has led community-based healing initiatives, facilitated workshops on trauma recovery, and collaborated with organizations to develop Indigenous-centered wellness programs.

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She also co-founded Eeyou Consulting, where she works to integrate STEM education with land-based Indigenous knowledge, ensuring that youth have access to both academic and cultural pathways to success in community. 

Sarah’s professional journey reflects a commitment to empowering marginalized communities. From her work as a RestorativeJustice worker at Six Nations to her Stakeholder Relations role for the Ouje-Bougoumou Cree Nation, she blends traditional Indigenous knowledge with contemporary strategies to create impactful programs for youth, families, and communities. Sarah’s interdisciplinary approach ensures reconciliation remains central in building sustainable and culturally integrated solutions across Abya Yala (Turtle Island, The Americas - Tat Bartolo Alvarez 2024).

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Sarah has learned from many First Nations Elders across the Americas. Her practice is influenced by Tina Armstrong (Bear Skin Lake First Nation), Collin Mousseau (Anishinaabe healer), Wally Wapachee (Cree Nation/Eeyou Istchee) and Tat Bartolo Alvarez (Mayan Kiche). And taught by Tim Leduc, Kathy Absolon, Giselle Dias, Lori Hill, Laura Mastronardi and Norma Jacobs. ​​

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With over a decade of experience in counselling, crisis intervention, and program development, Sarah continues to be a leader in Indigenous mental health and wholistic healing.

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Education: ​

• Wilfrid Laurier University – Master of Social Work: Indigenous Field of Study (2024)

• Wilfrid Laurier University – Bachelor of Social Work (Hons.) (2018)

• Mohawk College – Child and Youth Worker Advanced Diploma (2014) 

• Humber College – Public Relations Postgraduate Certificate (2019)

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Clinical Training & Certifications:

• Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)

• Six Nations Polytechnic’s Peacebuilding Workshop Series

• Crisis Negotiation and Intervention Training

• Mental Health First Aid

• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

• Human Trafficking Certification

• Diversity and Equity Training

• Reiki – First Degree Level One

• LGBTQ2 & Safe Spaces Training

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Work Experience

Restorative Justice Worker

Six Nations Social Justice Department

(October 2021 – May 2022)

Anti-Human Trafficking Counsellor  Covenant House Toronto

(November 2018 – November 2021)

Mental Health & Addiction Crisis Counsellor – St. Leonard’s Community Services

(April 2016 – October 2017)

• Provided trauma-informed, client-centered care to survivors of sex trafficking, focusing on mental health, substance use, and emotional recovery. Led safety planning and crisis intervention, and collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to connect residents with healthcare, legal aid, housing, and education/employment services. Advocated for long-term independence through strength-based counselling and holistic support.

• Offered therapeutic support for children and youth facing mental health challenges, homelessness, and crisis situations. Utilized Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and trauma-informed approaches to promote emotional regulation and resilience. Designed and led life skills programs to empower youth transitioning into independent living.