• Manager of the Early Intervention Programs for CMHA/Peel
   
• Provided front-line and educational services for CMHA/Peel since 1989.
   
• Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from McMaster University in Hamilton
   
• Began working in direct service, as a counsellor for those with a history of mental illness; eventually developed and implemented what is now the education program, wanting to address the many myths and misconceptions about mental health problems, which act as the number one barrier to people seeking help.
   
• Has now offered educational training and presentations, regarding mental health issues, to over 15,000 adult learners
   
• Certified Trainer in Mental Health Works, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills, and Non-violent Crisis Intervention.
   
• Trains community members as well as corporate clients in managing mental health in the workplace.

Colleen Taffe

• Concurrent Disorders Resource Specialist
   
• Bachelors Degree in History and African Studies
   
• Currently working towards her Masters in Theology
   
• Began training and educating adults in 2002
   
• Has been facilitating workshops for persons with disabilities, intellectual challenges, and mental illness since 2003
   
• Multi-cultural sensitivity and experience working with diverse groups, such as persons with mental health issues, addictions, disabilities, women, youth at risk and immigrants/newcomers
   
• Certified Trainer in Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) and Concurrent Disorders
   
• A very engaging speaker, who is professional, dynamic and passionate about the training she delivers