Community Connections

Erin

My name is Erin a.k.a. the awesome lady at the front! I aim to be a jack of all trades, but I am the happiest up at my desk, seeing all the faces of our staff and clients each day! In my off time, I love to spend time with my family, decorate a room, or read a self-help book. My favourite quote is “ Nothing changes if nothing changes”.

Sharlene

Occupational Therapist

Hi—I’m Sharlene! I’m an Occupational Therapist with Community Connections. I’ve worked in mental health since 2009, and I have additional training and experience in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, 5-point acupuncture, and the use of sensory strategies for mental health and emotional regulation. I believe in the power of meaningful activities to bring a wholeness to daily life. I especially believe in the power of the arts to communicate, and as a way to find meaning and connection.

Shauna

Occupational Therapist

Welcome to Community Connections! I’m Shauna, an Occupational Therapist with the team and grew up right here in York Region. I have always had a passion for working in mental health as I strongly believe that every person has the power to create their recovery journey and potential to lead a meaningful life. I have training and experience in Motivational Interviewing, Coaching and Sensory Regulation to name a few, and enjoy learning from our members every day. You will see me in groups such as Community Volunteering, Sing-A-Along, Drumming and Fun with Juicing, as well as hanging out at drop in.

Karen

Peer Support Worker

My name is Karen. My best qualification is my own life experience with mental health issues! I'm here to listen to you and share with you. I was born and raised in Ireland, but now call Canada my home. I have also found a second home in CMHA. I love working as a peer supporter in our programs in Aurora and Markham where we have drop-ins and also offer a wide variety of groups. We try to be welcoming, and I think we have a pretty good vibe in our program! When it comes to our groups, I think it's a great idea to come and check out some different groups - you never know what you might find and what you might enjoy.

Fraser

Peer Support Worker

Role: Peer Support Worker. Why? Eight years of Bipolar & Suicidal Depression. Groups: Youth Group, Work Out Group,  Mood Walk Group, Nutrition Group and spontaneous art when needed. Favourite Temperature: 20 celcius. Favourite Birds:  Blue Herons, Red-winged Blackbirds, Goldfinches & Barred Owls. Favourite snack on-the-go: Bananas. Countries visited (not including dreams):  Korea, Chile, America, Iceland, Cuba and the Dominican Republic. Favourite Podcasts:  Hardcore History, Joe Rogan Experience, With Special Guest Lauren Lapkus,  and The Duncan Trussell Family Hour. Do I listen to commercials?:  Nope.  Well, I try not to. Do I watch too much Netflix:  Oh yeah. Other Interests:  Island cultures, fruit & vegetable combinations, basketball, shrinky dinks, foot baths (foot care in general), ancient mysteries, CBC Radio 2 and What time is the sun going down?

James

Peer Support Worker

James Welsman is a peer support worker with a dedication for personal growth and helping others achieve the same. James is happy to share his journey of recovery, and happy to learn about your journey as well. James believes that through following our passions, we can make the world a better place.

Tim

Peer Support Worker

Hi there, my name is Tim Powell and I'm a new member of the Peer Support team. I enjoy meeting and learning about CMHA members and their stories and sharing some of my own. I also enjoy fitness, learning, and self-improvement.

Heidi

Peer Support Worker

Hello, I'm Heidi. I am passionate about many things, and I love exploring ideas. Learning about Recovery and Peer Support continues to empower me in my health, life, and relationships. I believe that by engaging in Recovery, each of us can be the "unique, awesome, one of a kind, never to be repeated human being that we are" (Patricia Deegan).