Mareena Thomas

Background

About Mareena Thomas

Having worked for more than a decade across various social work settings I bring a wealth of experience in supporting individuals facing diverse challenges which has equipped me with the ability to foster collaborative and respectful working relationships grounded in empathy and cultural humility. I have developed a trauma-informed care approach that emphasizes understanding the whole person focusing not on “what’s wrong ” but on “what happened” to the individual. This perspective deepens my ability to address the root causes of current issues while honoring the unique strengths and resilience each person carries. My practice is attuned to the complex intersections of identity trauma and systemic barriers ensuring that I provide culturally sensitive and responsive care to a diverse range of clients. Working in community-based settings with vulnerable populations has expanded my knowledge of local agencies and resources allowing me to effectively connect individuals to services that meet their specific needs. Managing one of Ontario’s three secure inpatient treatment units and supervising one of Canada's largest shelters has provided me with comprehensive insight into the mental health system for both youth and adults. My work is guided by relevant policies and legislation surrounding mental health with a focus on ensuring equitable access to care safety and dignity for all individuals.