About Us

Gwizhii Insititute of Learning specialized in Trauma-Informed Practice, Dispute Resolution Processes and Indigenous Reconciliation. We work collaboratively with clients to tailor-make workshops, training, policy and much more.

Since 2009 Karen has developed a dispute resolution practice that draws upon her formal education, lived-experience and traditional knowledge generationally passed down through her Tetlit-Gwich’in heritage.

Karen is a leader in providing trauma-informed and culturally sensitive investigations. As senior counsel with the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S), Karen built, trained, and led a national team of statement gatherers who conducted trauma-informed interviews across Canada.

Karen is a highly sought-after educator in trauma- informed practice. Her customized workshops on Indigenous Reconciliation and Trauma-Informed Practice have garnered widespread acclaim for inspiring participant to engage in reconciliation in a way that honours the humanity and dignity of all.

Karen has been appointed as King’s Counsel (K.C.) in British Columbia (B.C.)

The prestigious K.C. designation recognizes lawyers who have made exceptional contributions to the legal profession and have distinguished themselves through their counsel, teaching contributions, publications, advocacy and volunteerism. This year, Karen was one of only 30 B.C. lawyers who received the designation. Gwizhii is proud to be led by a mentor, who has been the voice of many across canada, and a harbinger of change and positive influence.

Karen brings a unique perspective to her work, which includes respect and appreciation for the diversity of peoples and cultures throughout British Columbia, Canada and the world.

Karen has been a long-time resident on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and Sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, today known as Vancouver. She also lived and worked in Canada’s north (the Yukon and the Northwest Territories) for 14 years.

In the spirit of keeping people safe and grounded during sessions, Karen co-facilitates with a Registered Clinical Counselor rooted in cultural humility.