We sit down with Jodi Farbstein, a seasoned social worker from Humber’s Outpatient Child and Adolescent Mental Health Program, to discuss her recent professional development commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and how it impacts her practice. Here’s what Jodi had to share.

Q: Can you tell us a little about your role here at Humber?

I work as a Social Worker in the Outpatient Child and Adolescent Mental Health Program here at Humber. So that includes responsibilities like conducting assessments, providing therapeutic support to children, youth, and their families, and coordinating services with community resources as appropriate. I’ve been a social worker for about 15 years, the last six and a half have been here with Humber, all within the same program.

Q: You recently set a professional development goal this year to educate yourself in EDI. What inspired this commitment?

My commitment to educating myself more about EDI grew from a combination of personal reflection and professional goals. Humber’s adoption of the importance of EDI, the courses available on the Learning Management System (LIME) – specifically *Anti-Stigma Training, Trauma Informed Care at HRH, and *Introduction to Anti-Black Racism E-learning Module – and the various workshop opportunities they provide have helped me develop a better understanding professionally. Recent personal experiences, have also heightened my awareness of the diverse stories and experiences that influence people’s lives. This personal and professional drive to continue to understand others and their lived experiences has motivated me to continue my growth in this area.

Q: What EDI learning opportunities will you embark on over the next year?

My learning approach is a mix of both planned and spontaneous education. I plan to take advantage of workshops and opportunities that arise from the EDI department and LIME. There are learning opportunities within my designated association and college as well. I’ll also continue my practice of regular self-reflection and combine these for my development.

Q: How does integrating EDI into your practice impact your work with patients?

Having a EDI practice is important in broadening one’s approach beyond just the medical model. It allows me to consider biological, psychological, and social factors that have historically impacted and presently exist for the person/family. This holistic approach helps in understanding and empathizing with patients better, making them feel less stigmatized and more supported. It also aids in building trust and enhancing the relationship, which is crucial for healing. Even small acts of empathy and connection can make a significant difference in how quickly trust is established and healing can begin.

Q: How can Staff, Physicians, and Volunteers at Humber integrate EDI into their professional development?

I recommend starting with resources like the LIME courses on EDI. There are often workshops and readings that are also offered through online resources from the EDI department. Engaging with such materials and being curious about how our own biases impact others can be a good starting point. Additionally, reflecting on personal experiences and how they shape our professional interactions can be very enlightening.

Thank you, Jodi, for sharing your insights and experiences with us. It’s clear that integrating EDI principles is not just a professional goal but a daily practice that enriches your work and the lives of those you support. For all Staff and Physicians looking for resources to incorporate EDI into their professional and personal development please check out the following resources:

1. LIME – Humber’s Learning Management System offers various courses to all Staff and Physicians including EDI-focused ones such as *Anti-Stigma Training, Trauma Informed Care at HRH, and *Introduction to Anti-Black Racism E-learning Module.
2. The CCDI website – as an Employer Partner, all Humber Staff and Physicians can access their webinars, knowledge repository, research, and Diversity calendar using their HRH email address.
3. The EDI Resources on iHumber – these resources on SharePoint contain great information, including resources to help you learn more about Humber’s commitment to EDI.
4. Ad Hoc Opportunities – Humber hosts various education opportunities on topics within the realm of EDI throughout the year, all Staff, Physicians and Volunteers can be notified of upcoming opportunities through corporate-wide communications (e.g. Memos).