Guiding your journey to better mental health

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!

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.

Adrianna is a registered Social Worker who graduated from McMaster University with an Honours Bachelor of Social Work degree. Adrianna’s experience has been focused on the importance of client-centered and evidence-based care within mental health. She has been involved in developing client intake processes, assessment, follow-up and implementing plans of care for individuals with diverse backgrounds, varied needs, preferences and goals. Additionally, Adrianna has worked with women who have experienced violence; substance use/addiction; homelessness; poverty; and unemployment. She understands the importance of creating connections with clients and is dedicated to helping them along the path to improved mental health. Some of Adrianna’s interests include: playing tennis; going to the movies with friends; and trying out new restaurants in and around Toronto.

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.

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.

Valerie is a Registered Psychotherapist who has worked for more than a decade in community mental health. She holds a Masters of Arts in Psychology from Médaille College and a Honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of Toronto. Valerie has extensive clinical experience working with individuals and groups on addressing diverse mental health concerns including complex trauma, suicidal ideation, concurrent disorders, and the impact of socioeconomic status on mental health. She is passionate about exploring the role of digital health technologies on reducing health disparities in the mental health sector. Outside of work, Valerie enjoys baking, working on her green thumb, and visiting local coffee shops.