Restorative Practices and Animal-Assisted Interventions with Jenna Eckna

Restorative Works!

Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Jenna Eckna, LCSW to the Restorative Works! Podcast. Jenna is Vice President of Social Services at Green Chimneys, a unique agency dedicated to supporting youth and families through nature-based programs, animal-assisted interventions, and restorative practices. Jenna reflects on how these innovative approaches empower young people to navigate challenges, build emotional resilience, and foster meaningful connections. Jenna describes the power of restorative practices circle processes, storytelling, and dialogue in creating shared experiences between staff and students. She highlights how these practices redefine traditional dynamics, ensuring that youth feel heard, valued, and equipped to take ownership of their community relationships. Jenna began her role as clinical social worker supporting youth in the Green Chimneys’ residential program, located in Brewster, New York, in 2010; ultimately working towards her current role as Vice President of Social Services for the agency. She has spearheaded many initiatives at Green Chimneys including, assisting the agency with implementing a relational mindset and approach to working with one another. Previously, she worked as a teacher’s assistant for a special needs school program in Maryland, then moved on to become a foster care case worker in New York City. She received her bachelor's degree in psychology in 2002 then went on to receive her master's degree in social work in 2010. Tune in to learn more about how tailoring restorative processes to individual needs builds trust and promotes healing, demonstrating that one size does not fit all in this work.