Guiding your journey to better mental health

Dorraine obtained her Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Burman University in Alberta. She has over five years of experience helping others with various mental health needs and disabilities. Her previous role was as Service Coordinator at Canadian Mental Health Association, where she helped adults with acquired brain injuries access services which allowed them to regain independence in self-identified areas of their lives. Dorraine realized she was passionate about mental health after sharing her therapy experience with family and friends, which then caused them to explore therapy on their own. She understands the importance of being client-centric so individuals can stay encouraged on their mental health journey. During her free time, Dorraine enjoys cooking, spending quality time with family and friends, and hiking the Rocky Mountains in Alberta.

Joel has an educational background in psychology and social work with over 5 years of volunteering at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto. Joel finished his Undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Toronto and went on to complete his Bachelor of Social Work from Toronto Metropolitan University. Joel has worked closely with survivors of intimate partner violence as well as perpetrators of intimate partner violence when completing his placement at the Abrigo Centre in Toronto. Here he found his passion for working with people on their journey to recover and gained an intimate understanding of the difficulties navigating systems for those who have language barriers. Joel believes that accessible mental health services are a gateway to total well-being for Canadians. Away from work, you can find Joel in the outdoors, dog watching at the park or playing Dungeons and Dragons.

After starting a career in health insurance and group benefits, she developed an interest in mental health in a social context. She returned to school as a mature student and obtained a Bachelor of Arts with honours in Sociology and Child/Youth Studies. Sarah has dedicated herself to her education and worked on an extensive research project to develop community-based resources for LGBTQ+ youth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout her degree, she has worked in youth homeless shelters, senior support services, and disability advocacy. She continues to support students with disabilities through peer mentorship and advocacy groups at Brock University. Outside of work, Sarah is engaged in a lively francophone community in the Niagara Region and enjoy spending time outside exploring the beautiful landscapes her area has to offer!

Cecilia has over 10 years of providing customer service to many community and mental health organizations. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of Western Ontario and pursued further studies in the field of Applied Behavioural Analysis. She found out she had an affinity towards mental health and while volunteering at the Humber River Regional Hospital as a Mental Health Assistant. This led to some of her extensive experience with mental health which includes support to individuals with substance abuse disorders and volunteering as a support worker for Crisis Helplines.Some of Cecilia's hobbies include taking long walks, watching horror movies, and spending time with family.

Chantal has a diverse professional career with experience ranging from customer service, community-based work, clinical work, to mental health and more. As a graduate with honors of the Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy Assistant program, Chantal has gained comprehensive experience with chronic pain, neurological conditions, neurodivergent populations, mental health as well as MVA and WSIB clients. She has gained her experience through working in a hospital, clinical, and community setting. Chantal spent the majority of her life immersed in the arts; pursuing dance in her youth, and then teaching it to individuals with differing ages and abilities. Chantal was an Ambassador and Community Leader with the Toronto Argonauts, where she spent her time working and volunteering at various events and charities. She advocated for the anti-bullying and prevention program “Huddle Up”, as well as programs supporting the well-being of youth. Outside of work, Chantal loves to spend her time practicing yoga, listening to vinyl, reading and going for hikes.

Alessandra has an educational background in social work and has studied at George Brown College and York University. She has a diverse background in the health and social services sector supporting individuals, families and caregivers with system navigation, case management and care coordination. She has worked in multiple settings including Long Term Care, several non-profit organizations, and Primary Care. Alessandra’s hobbies include reading, hot yoga, hiking, and spending time with her dog.