Julie Dang MSW,RSW
Hey there! I’m Julie (She/Her), registered Social Worker and Expressive Arts Therapist. I have been practicing in the field of Social Work for over 13 years here in Calgary. I have had the privilege of working within many community programs with diverse client backgrounds.
My earlier work was focused on programming with elementary school aged children. Supporting those with varying abilities and needs, as well as offering support to their caregivers. Shortly after, I moved on to work with a housing program that served young mothers and their infants. My work entailed supporting women during a time of transition in their lives, to develop parenting and independent living skills, and connect them to community resources.
Upon graduating with my bachelor of social work degree, I gained experience in a few positions with Child and Family Services. I loved working with the families, children, and community partners, but struggled operating in the realm of mandated services. For that reason, I decided to pursue further education to be able to work with client's in a therapeutic role.
In 2011, I went back to school to complete my master's degree in clinical social work. During my master's practicum, I worked in a generalist role providing counselling to children, youth, adults, couples and families. It was within this role, I started my training in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
After completing my schooling, I began working for Alberta Health Services with a transitional program for adults struggling with addictions and mental health, often facing homelessness. Through the years working within this program, I further developed my professional identity, but also went through a personal life transition of becoming a mother.
During my second maternity leave, I decided to revisit a prior interest in Expressive Arts Therapy and completed my level 1 & 2 certificates through the Prairie Institute of Expressive Arts Therapy. It was at this time I decided to return to work with the population I am most passionate about- children, youth, and families, by opening my own private practice.
On a more personal note
I am a mother of two sweet boys and a very adventurous english pointer mixed pup, partner to my wonderful husband, a sister, and friend. When not working, I enjoy connecting with nature, whether that's exploring the Rocky Mountains or finding my calm in the many dog parks and pathway systems here in Calgary. My family enjoys visiting our home away from home, the Canadian Maritimes, to visit family and take in all the wonders that the beaches and ocean life have to offer.
I fill my cup by spending time with family, friends, jamming to my favorite music, and sometimes just vegging out with a movie on the couch. I find inspiration through reading books and creating art, which are two things I feel are essential in both my personal and professional growth.