Timely and accessible, Strong Helpers’ Teachings skillfully illustrates the importance of Indigenous knowledges for students, practitioners, and scholars in the human services. Making space for the voices of many Indigenous and non-Indigenous scholars, practitioners, and service users, Cyndy Baskin’s text models possible pathways towards relationship building and allyship. Placing Indigenous concerns and perspectives at the centre of social work disciplines, and through the use of examples and case studies, Baskin covers topics such as spirituality, research, justice, and healing.

This thoroughly updated edition includes new chapters on self-care for helpers, holistic approaches to mental health, and two-spirit experiences and is a valuable resource for those interested in sharing, listening, and teaching Indigenous worldviews and helping practices.

Cyndy Baskin, Mi'kmaq and Celtic Nations, is Associate Professor of Social Work at Ryerson University in Toronto and an active and energetic teacher, researcher, and community builder both in Canada and internationally. She has written widely on these and other topics.

Cyndy Baskin's profile page

“In this timely and pertinent text that responds to the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Cyndy Baskin offers scholars, students, and practitioners the importance of Indigenous approaches, knowledge, and epistemology in the area of helping. This text provides a comprehensive and affirmative overview in how we as current and potential professionals can respectfully incorporate an Indigenous lens in the field of social work. For Indigenous students and practitioners, this text re-affirms the knowledge, values, and resilience of our lived experiences within our families and communities. Nya:weh (gratitude) for this valuable publication!”
— “Bonnie M. Freeman, PhD, Algonquin/Mohawk from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, School of Social Work, McMaster University

“The spirit of Indigenous regeneration in the human services fields is within the pages of this valuable new edition. Baskin speaks to diverse Indigenous and Settler peoples with critical perspectives on decolonizing and respecting Indigenous knowledge across the helping professions.”
— “Kirsten Mikkelsen, Indigenous Studies, Department of Arts and Education, Grande Prairie Regional College