Trainers and Consultants

Danielle has over 15 years of clinical experience working in front line mental health, consulting and teaching roles. She is a Registered Psychologist and holds a Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy. In addition to training with CTRI, she has a private clinical practice working with individuals, couples and families on a variety of mental health issues. As a therapist, Danielle strives to incorporate mindfulness and positive psychology interventions in her work. She believes in a holistic approach to wellness and that real change happens through meaningful connection with self and others. Her intention is to enhance the quality of life of those she works with by cultivating hope and self-compassion. Danielle brings a strong desire to facilitate excellent and enjoyable learning experiences to her workshops that reflect her compassion, warmth and humour.    

Lana has been a Registered Psychologist since 2001 and holds her Certificate in Advanced Clinical Supervision in Psychology. In addition to training with CTRI, Lana manages a team of clinicians and clinical consultants who are responsible for building capacity in professionals, educators and the public around issues related to child and adolescent mental health and addictions. She has worked in multiple mental health settings and private practice, both with adults and adolescents. Lana believes all people are inherently competent when it comes to defining their healthiest, most authentic path, and works with them to support their growth to live and work with purpose and positivity. Lana is active as a supervisor for Provisional Psychologists in Alberta, which offers her the opportunity to stay abreast of clinical developments and research. As a trainer, she provides training sessions that are engaging, relevant and enjoyable.

Rachel is a Social Worker with over fifteen years of experience supporting holistic well-being within Saskatchewan and Alberta. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and undergraduate degrees in Social Work and Psychology. Rachel has continuously expanded her professional skill set through diverse prevention, intervention, education and clinical counseling roles. She believes that every person is capable of profound resilience if integrated support and practical tools to enhance well-being are provided. Rachel partners with clients and communities to overcome trauma, enhance internal strengths and develop external resources. As a trainer, she strives to present information in a clear, engaging manner. Rachel is a collaborative and inclusive presenter who inspires and energizes those in attendance.

Katie is a Provisionally Registered Psychologist in Alberta, holding a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. She has worked in the social service field for over 15 years and currently is a Family Counsellor at a community based agency, where she provides counselling services to children, youth, adults, and couples. Katie has extensive experience working with children and youth who have experienced sexual and/or physical abuse. Her work also includes supporting clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, historical trauma, relationship difficulties, and family violence. Katie believes in the power of human resiliency and innate capacity for personal growth. She believes that vulnerability, insight, and meaningful connections are all powerful ingredients for change. As a trainer Katie brings authenticity, humour, and a passion for sharing knowledge, drawing from her years of experience in order to make for an engaging and informative presentation.  

Vivian is a Registered Psychologist and holds a Masters of Science Degree in Psychology. She has extensive experience supporting children and youth with a variety of addiction concerns, mental health issues, and developmental diagnoses including Autism Spectrum Disorders, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, Attention Deficit Disorder, depression, and anxiety. In addition to training with CTRI, Vivian works for a public agency supporting youth with concurrent addiction and mental health concerns. She believes that we are each part of a dynamic system of family, society, and culture that informs how we see the world and live our lives. Vivian has a passion for sharing information in a way that is meaningful and memorable and brings this energy to the workshops she leads.

Priscilla is a Registered Professional Counsellor with many years of experience working with children, youth and adults with FASD in their homes, schools and community. She teaches our Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder – Strategies for Supporting workshop. Priscilla has presented at the FASD Learning Series in Edmonton with a unique focus on Financial Literacy across the life span for individuals with FASD. In addition, she is a program manager in Edmonton who supports clients, staff and programs, and continues quality improvement and on-going staff education. As a confident public speaker with frontline experience, Priscilla is able to easily establish a rapport with her audiences to convey information on complex clients with FASD with clarity and enthusiasm, thus awakening a passion for lifelong learning.  

Angie is a Provisional Psychologist and holds a Master of Education degree in Counselling Psychology. In addition to training with CTRI, Angie works for a not-for-profit agency where she offers therapy to some of Edmonton’s most vulnerable people. She also maintains a busy private practice where she provides therapy, consulting, and coaching to individuals and organizations, and is a group therapist at a return-to-work day program. As a therapist, Angie believes that people seek therapy not for their problems, but because their current solutions are no longer working. This influences her training style, where she partners with her learners by taking a curious, non-judgmental, strengths-based approach to support them as they create meaningful and lasting change.

Natalie is a Registered Psychologist in the province of Alberta and holds a Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy. She is EMDR trained and has an extensive understanding of trauma and the brain, as well as the human capacity to adapt, change, and heal. For over 20 years, Natalie has worked with youth and families affected by addiction and mental health concerns. She also spent several years working with youth and their families at a long-term intensive youth addiction treatment centre. More recently, she has been growing her private clinical practice working with individuals, couples, and families. Natalie is a lifelong seeker and learner who places tremendous value on continuing her own development and growth both personally and professionally. As a counsellor, she seeks to see people through a lens of non-judgement and compassion, and believes in the inherent goodness, worthiness, and desire for growth in humanity. As a trainer, Natalie aims to create a safe and comfortable learning environment, inviting collaboration, engagement, and shared experiences.

David has a Master’s degree in Counselling and is a registered psychologist. For the past decade he has devoted his time to working with issues of addictions, high-risk youth, aggression and challenging behaviours. As a counsellor, David’s therapeutic process is to respond to both presenting issues and the underlying causes. He believes that change and personal growth is often initiated through hard experience or a crisis and that transformation comes not from what is done to us, but rather how we respond.  In addition to training with CTRI, David works with youth, adults, couples and families in private practice as well as with a local social service agency. As a trainer, his approachable personality brings a real world approach to topics of trauma, addictions, challenging behaviours and anger management.

Shelly is a Registered Social Worker and has been an energetic practitioner and educator in the field of domestic violence, suicide intervention, youth justice, child welfare, mental health and homelessness for over 25 years. In addition to training with CTRI she has a private counselling practice where she focuses on  wellness, difficult conversations and healthy relationships. She believes that helping people work through difficult times requires a holistic approach to wellness and meaningful connection. Whether it’s through a mindfulness practice, strength base - person centered approach Shelly meets individuals where they are at. As a facilitator, she is a warm, passionate and engaging presenter who uses examples and strategies that participants can bring directly into their work with others.

Alexis has a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and has been working in the social service field for close to ten years. She has a diverse professional background, working as a therapist in a private practice, as well as assisting individuals in the non-profit sector. Alexis has extensive experience working with people struggling with trauma, mental health and addiction, and has specialized in these areas for the majority of her career. Working in this field has provided her with experience supporting individuals in a variety of challenges, and Alexis brings this knowledge and experience into her role as a facilitator with CTRI. She believes in a holistic model for healing by taking an integrative approach when working with clients. Alexis’ passion for helping others translates into her workshops, creating an experience that is engaging, informative and fun.

David is a popular presenter of our De-escalating Potentially Violence Situations™ workshop. He believes that the best way to reduce violence is to listen well and manage one’s own defensive reactions. David is an enthusiastic and effective trainer and mediator with nearly 25 years of experience in the field. In addition to his work with CTRI, David is responsible for the Legal Education Society Mediation Training Program, and teaches yoga, Kung Fu and Tai Chi. He also facilitates numerous courses for the Insurance Institute of Southern Alberta and Mount Royal University. Additionally, he has been a guest lecturer for Interest Based Negotiation courses and Insurance Law, at the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary Law Schools. David brings genuine warmth and humour as well as passion for effective communication to the workshops that he teaches.

Deborah has worked in the conflict resolution and criminal justice field for 15 years, and is currently part of the leadership team within her organization. She teaches CTRI workshops in the areas of restorative justice, bullying, violence prevention, and conflict resolution. Deborah has been active in the Restorative Justice field since 2003, and as a facilitator works to provide victims and offenders opportunities for discussion to address harmful events.  She has served as a board director on the Alberta Restorative Justice Association (ARJA) from 2009-2015, and as Chairperson from 2012-2015.  In addition to training with CTRI, Deborah is an experienced mediator and a professional certified coach. She is an enthusiastic presenter who enjoys facilitating interaction and dialogue among participants.

Nadine has over 15 years of experience working as a clinician and educator in the field of mental health, crisis response and trauma support. She is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and holds a master's degree in Counselling Psychology. Highlights of Nadine’s experience include providing training and clinical supervision on the crisis line, contributing to a mental health outreach crisis response team and working as a mental health therapist with the local health authority. Her therapeutic work centers on balancing acceptance and change with clients while developing skills to enhance capacity for both. Nadine believes that people build their resilience by strengthening self awareness, self compassion and meaningful interpersonal connections. As a presenter, she brings her passion, experience and warmth to ensure workshops are engaging, relevant and practical.

Briar’s career in the helping profession has spanned over twenty years. She is a Registered Nurse, as well as a Registered Clinical Counsellor who holds a Master of Arts degree in Counselling Psychology and a Doctorate degree that combines the areas of psychology, health, and education. In addition to training with CTRI, Briar is a Professor in Counselling Psychology, and has a private practice where she specializes in working with clients who have issues related to anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and depression. She believes in learning alongside her clients, and that a foundation of mutual client-counsellor respect is integral to the counselling relationship. Briar hopes to assist all people in living authentic lives that recognize the unique potential that exists within all of us. She is a dynamic and enthusiastic trainer that seeks to ensure participants are thoroughly engaged and inspired, while gaining practical skills that are easily applied to each individual’s unique work environment.

Marnie is a Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social Work degree focused on collaboration between non-profit agencies and police. She has 22 years of direct client service in a collaborative practice with the Vancouver Police Department, providing client centered interventions in high lethality cases of family violence. Marnie’s clinical work is focused on individual empowerment and resiliency in the context of systemic intervention. She believes that through connection with others and access to knowledge we can all find a place of belonging both inside ourselves and in our communities. Marnie provides training to a wide range of audiences in the areas of trauma-informed crisis management, mental health, violence-prevention and family violence. She brings humor and energy to difficult topics and makes workshop material relevant and practical for a diverse range of audiences.

Galya is a certified counsellor who holds a Masters of Counselling. In addition to training with CTRI, she operates a private counselling practice focused on supporting individuals and couples to heal and thrive. As a counsellor, Galya has a client-centered approach and has helped individuals, couples and groups in a range of struggles and endeavors. She is constantly inspired by her clients and believes in the innate wisdom and potential of each of us. Galya values connection and learning and is thankful to have a career working intimately with others facilitating growth and the sharing of knowledge. In her workshops she creates a lighthearted and interactive environment where participants can explore new concepts and internalize learnings for immediate practical application.

Lynda is a Registered Social Worker, Certified Professional Co-Active Coach and adult educator with over twenty-five years of combined experience as a crisis intervention social worker and workshop facilitator. She holds a Master of Social Work degree and Bachelor’s degrees in Sociology and Social Work. In the past decade, Lynda has trained thousands of professionals across Canada in the areas of stress and trauma management, burnout prevention, mental health, resiliency and organizational health. She believes that learning is the cornerstone to all growth and that individuals are inherently deserving of dignity, care and respect. Lynda is a passionate facilitator who creates engaging and dynamic learning environments where new insights and learning occur.

Monica is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor and has been working in the community-based social services field as a public educator. She has provided services in a front-line and clinical capacity for over twenty years, specializing in the areas of trauma, addiction within the family system, and play and expressive therapies. In addition to training with CTRI, she has a private counselling practice and serves in a leadership role at a non-profit organization, providing her expertise in family preservation and re-unification programming, as well as trauma-informed practice. Monica believes in the power of human resiliency and the importance of building the capacity of paraprofessionals and non-clinical workers because they play a vital role on the therapy spectrum. As a trainer, she brings with her stimulating stories and a style that promotes engagement and facilitates learning.  

Jody is a Marriage & Family Therapist and Behaviour Analyst with over 13 years experience in the social services field. Designated as a Registered Marriage & Family Therapist, Canadian Certified Counsellor, as well as a Registered Clinical Counsellor in the province of BC. In addition to training with CTRI, she has a private practice where she supports individuals, couples, and families impacted by mental health and developmental disabilities. Jody approaches her work through a strength-based and systemic lens. She believes in the gifts of vulnerability, courage, and resiliency as tools for change. Jody is an authentic and enthusiastic facilitator who believes in learning through connection, stories, and humour. Her non-judgmental and engaging facilitation style gives participants space to learn and grow while taking in practical strategies.

Dave is Executive Director of Fraser Region Community Justice Initiatives Association (FRCJIA), an Adjunct Professor in the School of Criminology at SFU, a Registered Clinical Counsellor and a member of the Leuven, Belgium Institute for Criminological research. He is considered a pioneer in restorative justice program development and implementation. In addition to his work in the area of restorative justice, Dave also has a counselling practice where he specializes in mental health, trauma recovery and resilience. He believes that interventions based in positive, strength based, deeply caring relationships with competent providers creates contexts in which recovery, healing and transformation are enabled and enhanced in people’s lives. Dave firmly believes in the power of the human spirit and the ability of individuals to overcome and transcend the most difficult of circumstances. As a trainer, his use of an engaging and facilitative training style, combined with content and stories born of life experience, enables him to bring theory to life.

Alison has been working directly with violent offenders for 17 years in provincial and federal prison settings. She currently works with inmates described as the most difficult in the federal prison system. Through her work and training Alison has developed keen insight into the nature of violence and violence prevention. She consults and trains widely on issues of violence, trauma and conflict management. Alison’s educational background includes Master’s degrees in leadership, training and human development as well as nurse’s training and a diploma in recreation therapy. She brought all these areas of study together in a doctorate in human and organizational systems that explored how humans interact, change and manage with the particular contexts of the systems they engage with. Alison is a contributing author to three books and multiple academic articles. As a presenter, her participants appreciate her humour, depth, and warmth.

Keith has over twenty years of experience in conflict and violence management, and is a popular presenter of our Violence Threat Assessment and De-escalating Potentially Violence Situations™ workshops. He has worked as a social worker for four years and a police officer for over fifteen years. Keith has extensive training and experience in the assessment and management of workplace violence, school based violence, domestic violence, and stalking. He is past President of the Canadian Association of Threat Assessment Professionals. Keith holds a Master of Social Work degree from Carleton University and is working towards a Doctorate degree in Education at the University of British Columbia. As a facilitator, Keith draws on his experience in adult education, policing, and violence risk assessment to provide practical, meaningful, and participant focused presentations.

Aaron holds a Masters Degree in Conflict Transformation and teaches CTRI workshops in the areas of restorative justice, bullying, violence prevention, and conflict resolution. In addition to training with CTRI, he is a consultant in private practice, where he works with schools, criminal justice, and other organizations both nationally and internationally. Aaron’s background includes facilitating Family Group Conferences in the United States and New Zealand, designing and convening peacebuilding programs for Palestinian and Israeli youth, addictions treatment programming, and outdoor leadership. Aaron is a firm believer in the ability of people to grow and discover their own creative ways through even the most difficult life experiences. A passionate facilitator, he brings an upbeat, insightful, and engaging presence to all of his workshops.

Larry teaches CTRI workshops in the areas of violence prevention, restorative justice, and conflict resolution. He is a certified mediator and has a Master of Arts degree in Conflict Analysis and Management. Larry has long been involved in the human relations and human resources fields, and has extensive experience within the justice system, mediation, investigations, coaching, and training. He has worked as a leader and manager in a variety of settings and has held executive positions on numerous boards and agencies. Larry has presented to many types of audiences throughout his career, including in a post-secondary education setting. Workshop participants enjoy Larry’s quick humour, keen interest in others, and real world experience.

John has been working as a therapist and trainer for almost 20 years. He is a Registered Social Worker who holds a Master of Social Work degree. John is a co-author of our Counselling Insights book. Much of John’s career has centred on working with children, youth, adults, and families dealing with crisis and trauma. While he has a diverse practice, he has particular interest and specialized experience in working with individuals and families impacted by mental health concerns, violence, post-war trauma recovery, gender/sexuality issues, and sexual abuse recovery. John’s work is also informed by his international experiences working with individuals and communities impacted by civil war and ethnic conflicts in Colombia, Albania, and Northern Ireland. John believes people are their own best experts and already have many of the skills, abilities, and competencies that will assist them to address the challenges influencing their lives. John is a warm and engaging facilitator who values interactive learning experiences.

Tricia is a Registered Social Worker and holds a Master of Social Work and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Developmental Studies. In addition to training with CTRI, she is a compassionate therapist who specializes in suicide intervention, self-injury, anxiety, depression, and neurodevelopmental issues. She is also a co-author of our Counselling Insights book. Highlights of Tricia’s career include her role in family-centred research and training with Manitoba Family Services, several years as a social worker and therapist for St. Amant Centre, and supporting youth and families in crisis as both therapist and clinical supervisor of the Youth Crisis Stabilization System through MYS. Her therapeutic approach is client-centred and trauma informed, drawing upon individual strength and resiliency.  She has a profound belief in the resiliency of the human spirit, particularly in conditions of relational attunement, connection, and support. Tricia is skilled in finding a balance between being informative and building connections with her participants while delivering workshops.

Kimberly is a Registered Social Worker, holding a Master of Social Work degree and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. Her professional experience includes clinical case management, counselling and group facilitation in the child welfare system for high-needs children and youth, as well as in community-based programs for those who struggle with eating disorders and for individuals with intellectual disabilities in conflict with the law. In addition to her work with CTRI, Kimberly maintains a private counselling practice for individuals, couples, and families, specializing in the areas of trauma recovery, anxiety, depression, self-injury behaviour, and disordered eating and body image. Her therapeutic approach is one of warmth and collaboration, recognizing that people are resilient, have inherent wisdom about their lives, and are hardwired for connection with others. Constantly pursuing her own growth as a therapist, Kimberly believes that helpers are energized by fresh ideas and approaches. She draws on her experience in the field and passion for these issues to provide energetic, enlightening, and interactive presentations.

Wilma is a family therapist and former mental health nurse, holding a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Certificate in Adult Education. Her private practice focuses on support and strengthening of families living with a mental illness. She taught nursing at Red River College for family nursing and mental health clinical practice, and led the nursing faculty’s Critical Incident Stress Management team. Wilma’s particular interests include working with families who are experiencing illness or loss, including major mental illnesses, lateral violence and family violence. Her therapeutic approach is strengths-based and relational, recognizing the influence of sociocultural and personal context, which makes each person’s and family’s experience unique. Wilma believes that healing occurs within relationship and through therapeutic conversation. As an educator, she works to engage learners through active learning and practical application of concepts for skill development.

Scott has worked with children, families and communities in clinical, teaching and training contexts for over 20 years. In recent years he has particularly enjoyed his training work with Indigenous communities. Scott holds a Master of Education (Specialization in Counselling) and has undertaken extensive professional development, including in the areas of working with mental health, trauma, grief and helping people develop their preferred identities. In addition to training with CTRI, he maintains a private psychotherapy practice. Scott believes positive change happens when curiosity and desire for change sparks creative human interactions that unlock new opportunities. An engaging and interactive presenter, he likes to connect with workshop participants to help them envision possibilities for growth in their lives and their work, and to take steps to make those actually happen.

Reece is a popular facilitator of our Gender and Sexual Diversity workshop. He is a Certified Sexuality Educator and Sexuality Education Supervisor with the American Association for Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists. His private practice as a Certified Sexologist and Sex Therapist addresses a host of sexuality concerns that affect individuals and impact relationships. Reece specializes in topics related to equity and inclusion, sexual and gender diversity in youth and adults, and sex positive approaches in service delivery. He is passionate about building affirmative and safe environments for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, two spirit, queer, and all individuals expressing the diversity of sexuality and gender. As a trainer, Reece believes in the value of diverse perspectives and participant authenticity. Reece is an engaging facilitator who values interactive and informative learning experiences.

Kalyn teaches CTRI workshops in the areas of autism and wellness. She is a gifted facilitator who brings a wealth of knowledge to her training from both her professional background and from her experience raising her 16-year old with profound autism. In university she majored in developmental studies, psychology, and conflict resolution studies. Throughout the last fifteen years, Kalyn has worked with schools, government agencies, and health care organizations to increase awareness and understanding of autism as an educational consultant, trainer and parent. Kalyn published her first book, Mother of the Year and Other Elusive Awards: Misadventures in Autism, in 2013. As a facilitator, she is a warm and engaging speaker who incorporates experiential learning into her presentations.

Mike teachers CTRI workshops in the areas of violence prevention, restorative justice, and conflict resolution. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Certificate in Conflict Resolution, and has over twenty years of experience as a leader in the conflict resolution and violence prevention field. He believes that learning is a life-long endeavor and that the process of development should be enjoyable and motivating. As a facilitator, Mike uses his experiences working in a manufacturing environment, inner-city drop-in, boys camp, and as a mediator to illustrate the material.  He has an interactive and engaging style that easily motivates participants to incorporate workshop material into their own environments.

George is a popular presenter of our Violence Threat Assessment and De-escalating Potentially Violent Situations™ workshops. He is a senior management consultant and security specialist with over 25 years of leadership and management experience in the public sector. George is a Certified Protection Professional with a focus on violence risk assessment, and extensive knowledge in the development of violence and threat assessment programs. He is the former director of Safety, Security, and Investigations for a Manitoba crown agency. George holds Bachelor’s degrees in Social Sciences and Criminal Justice and is a certified protection professional with a focus on violence risk assessment. George has significant experience presenting training seminars, and his fusion of in-the-trenches business experience and real-life stories connects with his clients and audiences at an intimate and individual level.

Sheri is a Registered Social Worker who holds a Master of Social Work degree and a Bachelor's degree in Criminology. She has a diverse professional background with experiences as a correctional officer, addictions counsellor and developer and coordinator of a domestic violence outreach program. Sheri is a co-author of our Counselling Insights book. In addition to her work with CTRI, Sheri is also a counsellor in a private practice setting. She currently provides individual and family counselling in the areas of mental health, addiction, recovering after relationship breakdown, and trauma. Sheri believes humor, self acceptance, and social connection is the best framework for successful healing and meaningful learning. Sheri works to reflect this in her facilitation style and is a knowledgeable, passionate, and engaging presenter.

AnnMarie holds a PhD in experimental psychology and a Masters in clinical social work. In addition to advanced study and training in the areas of anxiety, trauma and resilience, she has 30 years of direct clinical experience. AnnMarie has worked as a psychotherapist and consultant in various workplaces including EAP programs, schools, community and hospital settings. Much of her work over the years has involved training and consulting with Indigenous communities, including 20 years as a member of the mental health team on the Akwesasne Mohawk Territory. She is a co-author of our Counselling Insights book. Informed by clinical work and her doctoral research on life orientation and coping, AnnMarie’s approach as a clinician and trainer is to view personal and professional struggles as human issues requiring compassion and practical strategies for coping and resilience. In her workshops, she seeks to build connection and capacity by creating an environment of acceptance, collegiality and experiential learning. Packed with personal and professional examples, AnnMarie’s trainings are both highly engaging and informative.

Bob teaches CTRI workshops in the areas of violence prevention and conflict resolution. He believes it is vital for organizations to increase their violence-prevention capabilities. Bob holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a major in Human Resources and has been active in facilitating various types of training for over 20 years. Most recently Bob was a staff Development Officer with Newfoundland and Labrador Housing where he provided and coordinated various training needs for over 400 employees across the province. As a trainer, Bob draws on his experience in the field and passion for the topic to provide engaging, funny, insightful, and interactive presentations.

Marion is a registered Social Worker in private practice and a Professor of Social Work at Dalhousie University. She has worked in positions from frontline to supervisory in both clinical and community based settings. In addition to her responsibilities at Dalhousie and training with CTRI, Marion has a small private practice where she works with individuals and families who are facing barriers related to mental health, addiction, poverty, discrimination, violence and relationship conflict. Marion is also a co-author of our Counselling Insights book. She believes that we both shape and are shaped by social systems, and therefore our analysis and therapeutic intervention needs to focus on the individual within the social ecology. Marion has an engaging and inviting facilitation style, sharing stories from practice and drawing on the experiences of participants to anchor workshop material with relevant examples in work and in life.

Elizabeth is a Registered Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in clinical and community social work. She holds a Master of Social Work degree and a Bachelor's degree in Child and Family Studies. Elizabeth has extensive experience in mental health clinical practice and community-based prevention and promotion programs in diverse rural, urban and Indigenous communities.  As a clinician, she believes in the inherent wellness of individuals, groups and communities, and she works from the perspective of uncovering and transforming traumatic influences, unhealthy patterns and coping strategies. Elizabeth has a deep interest in the influence of emotions on physical well-being. A mindfulness perspective is integrated into all aspects of her work. As a trainer, Elizabeth engages participants at a real-life level, using humour and storytelling.

Paula is an enthusiastic educator, trainer and evaluation consultant. She has worked in clinical, school and community-based settings in the areas of mental health, (dis)Ability, and challenging behaviour with individuals, families and health profession teams. Paula believes that everyone, regardless of their diagnosis or abilities, has the right to experience a meaningful life free from barriers and stigma. And that only by working together to create sustainable solutions, can individuals, families, professionals and communities ensure that supports, services and policies are responsive and effective for all. As a facilitator, she brings her knowledge of adult education and learning principles to provide an engaging, practical and interactive workshop experience.  

Christina is a Registered Social Worker who holds a Master of Social Work degree. She has extensive experience working with youth and families in outpatient mental health and addictions services, and is guided by the belief that people and communities have the capacity to self-heal when provided with the right resources and support – at the right time. Christina has also learned that a collaborative approach with clients and stakeholders is essential to healing and support. In addition to training with CTRI, she runs a private practice where she has developed expertise in guiding helping professionals and first responders through compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma, and burnout. As a trainer, Christina takes a compassionate approach to presenting dynamic and engaging workshops.

James teaches CTRI workshops in the areas of violence prevention and conflict resolution. He has extensive experience training people to handle situations of conflict and escalated emotion. James has a degree in Sociology and has worked for over a decade in the field of mental health and addictions, specifically working in a variety of shelters, as well as addiction rehabilitation and treatment facilities for youth. In his various roles he has been instrumental in developing and implementing policies for managing conflict and aggressive behaviour. James believes it is vital for individuals and organizations to increase their violence-prevention capabilities. In addition to training with ACHIEVE, he also teaches at the college level. As a facilitator, James provides high level training for groups that is both engaging and well organized.

Tom has over twenty-five years of experience in the field of mental health and addictions within the social service sector and in private practice. His background includes working in front line, management and senior leadership roles. In addition to training with CTRI, Tom is a Human Factors Specialist with Ornge where he provides trauma support and therapeutic interventions for paramedics and staff. His responsibilities with Ornge also include therapeutic interventions, debriefing staff and the development and implementation of a peer support program. Tom believes that real change happens through relationship, authenticity and empowerment. He is a gifted facilitator who integrates real world experiences into practical examples in the workshops he facilitates.

Joddie holds a Masters of Science in Forensic Psychology and is a registered psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. She has a private clinical practice where she specializes in treatment of grief and loss, stress, and anxiety issues for children, adolescents and adults. Additional areas of expertise include a sub-specialty with first responders and their families, and other professionals who are in the helping profession who may be experiencing PTSD or secondary traumatic stress. Joddie’s philosophy to treatment is the use of evidenced-based and trauma-informed practices in a strength-based, multi-disciplinary approach. She believes positive change happens when curiosity and desire for change sparks creative human interactions that unlock new opportunities. As a trainer, Joddie draws on her humour, and the strength and resilience she has witnessed in her work to illustrate course content in a dynamic manner.

Michelle is a Registered Social Worker who is an experienced practitioner who has practiced in the area of inpatient and outpatient mental health, forensic social work and psycho-social rehabilitation following a motor vehicle accident. She is a co-author of our Counselling Insights book. Michelle has a private practice where she focuses on mental health and trauma therapy with individuals, and also provides assessments for the provincial children’s lawyer.  She believes in the inherent abilities of individuals and communities to heal themselves, and that this healing can be assisted by an empathetic approach and an emphasis on the mind-body connection. When Michelle is not at her practice or facilitating for CTRI, she is an instructor at Western University in family studies and social work. As a facilitator, she is a warm and engaging presenter who uses are examples and strategies that participants can bring directly into their practice.

Jim has a PhD in Social Work and is a registered social worker in private practice. He has worked in various addiction, mental health and justice organizations throughout Canada in both clinical and management capacities. Most recently Jim was the Clinic Head and Manager for Rainbow Services and the Concurrent Disorder Service at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. He consults and trains frequently for governments and organizations concerning the addiction and mental health system. Jim works from a trauma and attachment informed, harm-reduction model of practice. He is an intuitive trainer, who in addition to providing informative presentations, brings a sense of humor to his trainings.

Amber is a Psychologist who has a Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy. In clinical practice, she provides treatment to children, adolescents and adults experiencing mental illness or other psychological difficulties (e.g., anxiety, depression, and trauma). In addition, Amber does a great deal of work with couples and families. She has a history in working with adolescent addiction, adolescent homelessness, family addiction problems and parenting capacity. Amber believes in the inherent strengths in her clients and their ability to be an integral part of the healing process. She has seen individuals, couples, families and communities generate insight, find motivation and reconstruct the mind set, coping strategies and ultimately the reality in which they live. She is also a co-author of our Counselling Insights book. As a trainer, Amber draws on her experience and passion for the topics to provide engaging stories that demonstrate concepts and ask thought provoking question to facilitate new learning. She strives to present material in a dynamic way that helps participants sustain attention and remain motivated to learn.

Laval has a life-long love for learning and has been leading trainings for close to ten years. He is a Registered Social Worker who holds both a Bachelors and a Master of Social Work degree. Laval has worked in the social service field for over a decade, working with various populations including mental health, developmental disabilities, and homelessness and poverty. He has extensive experience in crisis intervention from working in group homes, shelters, community centres, and drop-ins. In addition to training with CTRI, Laval has a private practice where he provides counselling to people who experience a variety of mental health and addiction concerns. Laval is passionate about building resilience, skill, and wisdom for helpers, himself, and the clients we serve. He believes in viewing everyone holistically and that everyone can grow and learn. As a trainer Laval makes training entertaining and keeps his learners engaged through incorporating real-world stories and examples.    

Michelle is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s degree in Counselling and Spirituality and a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Special Education. She draws on her educational background, 15 years of group facilitation, and agency and private practice experience to add a personalized touch to her workshops. Michelle maintains a private practice with individuals, families and children and specializes in mental health, trauma, eating disorders and coping with family changes. She believes that helpers are more effective when they have a non-judgmental perspective and compassionate curiosity for both themselves and their clients. As a facilitator, Michelle brings her knowledge of learning principles to provide an interactive, engaging and participant-centred experience, incorporating practical information attendees can immediately apply to both their personal and professional lives.

Carolyn is a Registered Psychotherapist who has a private clinical practice where she specializes in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. She is a certified EMDR Therapist and holds a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology. Carolyn believes that the body and mind are naturally designed to heal, but at times this process can become “stuck.” She sees her role as a counsellor to help address these “stuck” points to allow for healing to occur. Prior to starting her private practice, Carolyn worked in both the forensic field and in the hospital environment. As a trainer, Carolyn draws on her experiences to present the material in a dynamic way that engages participants and provides them with opportunities to apply the information they’ve learned.

Larisa is a Registered Psychotherapist, and holds her Masters degree in Counselling Psychology. She is also an Approved Supervisor for Play Therapy Canada. Larisa has close to 15 years experience working with children, individuals, and families in a therapeutic capacity. In addition to training with CTRI, she has a private practice where she specializes in childhood attachment, trauma, and a wide range of behavioural and emotional dysregulation issues using Play therapy. Larisa believes in the innate resiliency of children and youth, and in the inner strength of a family system to overcome their stressors when given the necessary supports and environment in which to do so. As a facilitator, she brings a dynamic, interactive, and playful component to her workshops. Larisa’s presentation abilities are personable, engaging, and she focusses on providing participants with ready to use skills and a focus on self-care.

Kelly is a Registered Social Worker and holds a Master of Social Work degree. She has also completed six levels of training in Sandtray-Worldplay with Gisela Schubach De Domenico and three levels of training with the Canadian Association of Play Therapy. In addition to training with CTRI, Kelly has an eclectic private practice where she incorporates play therapy, sandtray therapy, DBT, emotion-focused therapy, dance, somatic work, and mindfulness into her work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. She specializes in providing trauma-informed counselling for motor vehicle accident victims and their families. Kelly believes that everyone can access their own self-healing abilities and feels honoured when asked to be a part of the journey. As a trainer, she is both passionate and engaging.

Patrick teaches CTRI workshops in the area of violence prevention. He has been a leader in the field of residential group homes and treatment foster care for the past 20 years, presently as the owner and Executive Director of a foster/counselling centre. Patrick’s educational background is in Psychology and his workplace experiences have helped him develop keen insights into the complexities that surround the potential for violence in the workplace. He believes it is vital for individuals and organizations to increase their violence-prevention capabilities. As a trainer, his use of humour and genuine enthusiasm for teaching creates an excellent learning environment for participants.  

Michelle is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s degree in Counselling and Spirituality and a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Special Education. She draws on her educational background, 15 years of group facilitation, and agency and private practice experience to add a personalized touch to her workshops. Michelle maintains a private practice with individuals, families and children and specializes in mental health, trauma, eating disorders and coping with family changes. She believes that helpers are more effective when they have a non-judgmental perspective and compassionate curiosity for both themselves and their clients. As a facilitator, Michelle brings her knowledge of learning principles to provide an interactive, engaging and participant-centred experience, incorporating practical information attendees can immediately apply to both their personal and professional lives.

Trish has worked in many diverse mental health settings with families, youth and children providing direct practice for over 20 years. She has a Master of Social Work degree as well as an undergraduate degree in psychology, and has completed professional training in trauma resolution therapy. She is also a co-author of our Counselling Insights book. Trish believes that real change happens through relationship, authenticity and the use of skillful empathy. In addition to her work with CTRI, she maintains a small private practice, specializing in recovery from early adverse experiences, PTSD, anxiety, depression, vicarious trauma and burnout, and she continues to have a special passion for helping children, youth and families. As a trainer, Trish is a gifted listener who works to facilitate training that encourages genuine insight, compassion and a collective learning experience.

Noela is Cree and is a member of Cowessess First Nation in Saskatchewan. She holds a Master of Social Work degree and is a Registered Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with children and families in child welfare and mental health settings. Her clinical background has a special focus on problematic substance use with special populations. Noela has worked extensively with First Nations in direct practice, policy, program design, and management roles. In addition to training with CTRI, she is a private practice counsellor and consultant, as well as a sessional lecturer at the University of Regina Faculty of Social Work. The foundation of her work and practice are grounded in her culture and values as an Indigenous woman, and a belief that everyone has inherent strengths and wisdom. As a trainer, Noela is passionate about collaborative work and sharing information that is meaningful and practical  

Cindy is from the Kitigan Zibi and Kitiganik Algonquin communities in Quebec. In her career, she has worked with numerous First Nations and non-First Nations communities and schools. Cindy is a Registered Social Worker and her educational background includes a diploma and undergraduate degree in Addictions Counselling and a Master’s degree in Social Work. In addition to training with CTRI, she has a small private practice and is working on her PhD research in the area of mental health and wellbeing. As a helper, her approach draws on holistic, Indigenous worldviews and practices that have included storytelling, ceremony, trickster teachings, traditional games, and arts. She believes that although some of us may feel broken inside, we are never truly broken as we each hold four sacred gifts that enable every one of us to tap into these if we so choose. As a fun-loving, kind-hearted presenter and trainer, Cindy weaves her lived experiences and traditional cultural knowledge into her training, and believes in working with the shared wisdom and values of every individual in the room.

Deanne has worked in the field of mental health and addiction services for 11 years. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master’s degree in Public Health. Deanne also has specialized training in substance use treatment; helping others deal with difficult life circumstances, emotional regulation and skill development; case management; and stabilization in educational settings. In addition to being a CTRI trainer, she works full time as a Manager with mental health and addiction services where she provides guidance to staff who work with youth and families to improve their health and wellbeing. Deanne believes that with resiliency and support, every individual has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their life goals. As a facilitator, she uses humor, stories, group discussion and engaging strategies to keep the training entertaining, challenging, educational and memorable.

Joyce is originally from the Whitefish Lake First Nation and is now a member of the Saulteaux First Nation. She has a Master of Clinical Social Work degree and is a Registered Social Worker with over 25 years of experience helping people within child welfare, education, and mental health settings. This experience has included front-line social work practice, as well as leadership positions in the roles of executive director and health director. As a trainer, she enjoys working with First Nations peoples and provides relevant and culturally sensitive trainings. Joyce believes that restoring Indigenous traditions and cultural knowledge is essential to any healing process. She incorporates both Western and traditional strategies in her workshops and takes a down-to-earth, explorative approach to training.

Nataschaa has a Masters in Conflict Analysis and Management and is a Somatic Experiencing Trauma Practitioner and Assistant. Her work has taken her into both the fields of Conflict Resolution and Trauma Therapy. Nataschaa has worked as a mediator, coach, facilitator and counselor. She has lived in rural Yukon for ten years working with First Nations governments and communities. Nataschaa’s work is founded on the beliefs of the value of all perspectives, the innate desire we each have to be accepted and that our history does not need to dictate our future. Her approach includes encouraging space for the wisdom and strengths of the group and the individual to surface and co-creation to occur. She is passionate about teaching, listening and sharing.

Juliette is a Certified Counsellor and has a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology. She practices from a psychosomatic perspective and works with the roots of emotional blockages and trauma starting in the cellular memory. She also uses expressive arts therapies to complement her services with various ages and groups. In addition to training with CTRI, Juliette has a counselling practice where she primarily works with people around issues of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance withdrawal. Juliette values working with clients who want to enrich their current perception of themselves or their perception of the world they live in. As a counsellor, she encourages people to cherish a curiosity for the unknown and the desire to explore life playfully and creatively. Juliette believes that we are ready to grow as we cultivate empathy, non-judgement, and thankfulness. As a trainer, she brings lightness, warmth, and spirit. She also knows how to bring the group together and make participants feel at ease with each other.