Désirée Jones, MSc., RP (she/her), brings more than 21 years of experience in the mental health sector as a clinical leader, Registered Psychotherapist, and advocate for system transformation and accessible, high-quality care. Her career has spanned public and private sector mental health, community-based services, workplace mental health, and national service delivery models.

Désirée currently serves as an Assistant Vice President within a national mental health and Employee and Family Assistance organisation, where she provides strategic and operational leadership across integrated mental health services. Her work focuses on service innovation, quality improvement, access to care, clinical excellence, and employer/employee wellbeing.

Throughout her career, Désirée has held progressive leadership roles within leading community mental health organisations and national counselling services. She is also a Validated Clinical Supervisor with the OAMHP, and continues to support the development of psychotherapists and promoting high standards of clinical practice and evidence-informed care.

Désirée has been actively involved with the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals for several years, including serving in certification leadership and as Vice-President and President-Elect. As President, she is committed to strengthening the profession, advancing professional standards, and fostering a strong, inclusive association that supports both mental health professionals and the communities they serve.

Désirée completed both of her degrees in the United Kingdom, earning a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from the University of Wales, Bangor, and a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Psychology from the University of Wales, Cardiff. Her research on self-harm and service-user experiences within mental health systems has been published in both English and Welsh.

She is passionate about advancing accessible, inclusive mental health services and building resilient systems that support excellent care, strong professionals, and better outcomes for those seeking support.

Kristine Lake is a clinical and forensic psychologist in the Forensic Mental Health program and private practice in Thunder Bay. Kristine also holds an appointment as a faculty member of NOSM University. She obtained a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology in 1995 and a Ph.D. in Educational Studies in 2015. Kristine is expected to complete a Master of Laws in Health Law from Osgoode Hall Law School by the end of this year.

With over 30 years of experience in Mental Health and Addictions, Kristine has honed her skills in various publicly funded settings. Her career has been marked by a significant focus on the treatment of complex trauma and personality disorders. She has also made substantial contributions to the field through her research, publications, and presentations on trauma and human rights, which have been well-received at conferences, workshops, and professional development programs.

Kristine is not just a practitioner but also a vocal advocate for mental health rights. She approaches her work from a human rights perspective, striving to ensure that individuals within the mental health system are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. Her advocacy work is a testament to her belief that access to appropriate mental health services is a fundamental right to health.

As a lifelong resident of Thunder Bay, Kristine has come to appreciate the opportunities and challenges unique to Northwestern Ontario. She brings this perspective to her ongoing mental health advocacy efforts.

Thunder Bay, Kristine has come to appreciate the opportunities and challenges unique to Northwestern Ontario. She brings this perspective to her ongoing mental health advocacy efforts.

Katharine De Santos is a Registered Psychotherapist and Clinic Director at Healthy Minds Psychotherapy located in Toronto. Katharine holds a Bachelor’s degree from Western University, a Master’s degree from George Washington University, post graduate work at Johns Hopkins University, and a Master’s certificate on Global Mental Health: Trauma and Recovery awarded by Harvard Medical School.

She has over 20 years of experience treating adolescents and adults with various clinical symptoms and concerns including: depression/anxiety, trauma, relationships, substance use/addiction issues and eating disorders in Canada and the United States. Her treatment experience focuses on using evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, mindfulness and attachment-based therapies. Katharine has worked in out-patient, in-patient hospital settings, emergency trauma response teams, employee family assistance organizations and private practice settings in both Canada and the U.S. As a compassionate and understanding therapist, she encourages self-discovery, self-acceptance and provides a positive space to heal and grow.

Katharine has provided Clinical Supervision to Master’s level students, as well as those who have been working in the field for over 15 years. As a good clinical supervisor, she is a supportive and experienced mentor who guides and empowers her supervisees in their professional development. She encourages critical thinking and help her supervisees navigate complex clinical situations while promoting ethical and evidence-based practice. Her approach is collaborative, nurturing their growth and confidence as they become skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals.

Katharine has been actively engaged with Ontario's mental health community as a Board Director for the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP) since 2018. Her foremost objective as an OAMHP board member is to drive progress in the field of mental health by championing the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and efficacy among association members. She is dedicated to nurturing collaboration and knowledge exchange within the organization, ensuring that members have access to the most up-to-date research and best practices. Furthermore, she is committed to advocating for the profession, raising awareness of its significance in mental healthcare, and actively addressing pertinent policy and regulatory matters. Ultimately, her primary focus remains on providing unwavering support to members and elevating the quality of mental health services for the betterment of clients and the community.

Lisa Wilvert is a Registered Psychotherapist and a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

Located in Stratford, Ontario, Lisa has been in psychotherapy practice since 2009.  Her experience includes supporting individuals in various mental health programs that include first responders and their families; rehabilitation; readiness and return to work; and employee assistance.

From a client-centred perspective, Lisa works with adults experiencing various clinical symptoms and concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, life transitions, and grief and loss.

Her integrated counselling approach draws on therapeutic models that include relational, psychospiritual and psychodynamic.  Lisa offers modalities that include mindfulness-based, compassion-based; experiential; cognitive and behavioural therapies.  She enjoys supporting individuals as they encounter life’s challenges to find and experience balance, purpose, meaning and joy.

Lisa’s training and education includes a Master of Pastoral Studies with a focus on Buddhist approaches to mental health and a graduate certificate in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy from Emmanuel College in the University of Toronto.  Lisa has also a Specialist Certificate in Applied Mindfulness Meditation from the Clinical Mindfulness and Psychotherapy program at the University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work.

Since 2022, Lisa has been actively engaged on the Professional Development Committee and has recently stepped into the roles of Vice Chair of the Professional Development Committee and Director-at-Large of the Board of Ontario Association of Mental Health Practitioners (OAMHP).  Lisa is committed to supporting the career progression of mental health practitioners with continuing learning and professional development opportunities.

Beata Sims is the Founder of Restore Psychology and Rehabilitation, a Clinical and Rehabilitation Psychologist in Ontario and Alberta, providing comprehensive psychological assessment, rehabilitation, and evidence-based treatment for individuals recovering from trauma, injury, chronic pain, and disability.

With more than 20 years of experience in rehabilitation, disability management, and mental health, Beata has dedicated her career to helping individuals restore function, improve psychological well-being, and achieve meaningful recovery through a comprehensive biopsychosocial approach.

Beata began her professional career as a Physiotherapist, working across a variety of rehabilitation settings, which provided an in-depth understanding of physical recovery, chronic pain, neurological conditions, and the relationship between physical and psychological health. Her passion for understanding the mind-body connection led her to pursue advanced education and training in psychology, integrating rehabilitation science with evidence-based psychological care.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Toronto, a Graduate Diploma in Clinical Behavioural Sciences from McMaster University, and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University.

Beata is a Certified Clinical Traumatologist. She also completed specialized education in Disability Management through Pacific Coast University for Workplace Health Sciences and holds the designations of Certified Disability Management Professional (CDMP) through the National Institute of Disability Management and Research (NIDMAR) and Certified Vocational Rehabilitation Professional (CVRP).

Beata is a member of the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP), where she serves on the Board of Directors and contributes to the Public Policy Committee. She actively contributes to advancing professional standards, improving access to psychological care, and advocating for evidence-informed rehabilitation and mental health services.

Connie is a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and the Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance (CADDRA). Prior to starting her career in the mental health field, Connie had the pleasure of volunteering with high needs autistic individuals, empowering them to develop skills for greater independence within the community.

 As a registered psychotherapist, Connie specializes in supporting neurodivergent individuals and couples as they navigate unique roadblocks and explore the differences between symptom and personality.

Looking towards the future, Connie aims to focus her practice and training on blended families, recognizing the complexities and nuances within these dynamics.

Connie brings a compassionate and informed perspective to her work, driven by a genuine passion for helping others thrive.

Graham helps adults who want to be confident and enjoy life but are feeling stuck and are experiencing anxiety, stress, depression or work and career challenges. Graham also helps couples who want to feel closer and more connected but are having challenges in that regard.

His areas of care include trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, shame, anger, grief, communication, and vocational direction. His clinical focus uses an attachment-based, trauma informed approach in counselling. He is trained in the integration of different models of counselling. Graham works with individuals, couples and families.

Graham holds a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and  is a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO #11221) and the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP).

Graham has additional certifications in ADHD & Emotional Regulation, ADHD & Couples Therapy, ADHD in the Family, ADHD at Work, Trauma Treatment Certification Training (CCTP), Mindfulness Strategies for ADHD, Time Management & Executive Functioning Strategies for Adults with ADHD and is IFS informed. Graham is also certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy: Attachment-Based Interventions for Couples in Crisis. Graham is also certified with the Intercultural Developmental Inventory and the Intercultural Conflict Style inventory.

Naim Assemani, M.A, is a highly dedicated clinician, managing director, and partner at the Centre for Interpersonal Relationships (CFIR). He holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology and is currently in the process of registering with the College of Psychologists of Ontario.

Throughout his career, Naim has developed a comprehensive approach to mental health care, combining evidence-based therapies with a compassionate understanding of each individual’s unique experiences. His clinical expertise encompasses providing psychological treatment and coaching to adults dealing with a wide array of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, interpersonal difficulties, attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). 

Naim employs a diverse range of therapeutic modalities tailored to meet the specific needs of his clients. His approach integrates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, narrative exposure therapy, and motivational interviewing, among other techniques. This flexibility allows him to create personalized treatment plans that foster resilience, promote emotional well-being, and facilitate meaningful change. In addition to his therapeutic work, Naim offers comprehensive assessment services for personality disorders, psychiatric conditions, and neurodevelopmental disorders such as ASD and ADHD.

Naim is committed to ongoing professional development, the advancements in clinical psychology, and working to make mental health a service available to everyone. He previously chaired the Professional Development Committee at OAMHP (2018-2021) and is now returning as Director at Large with the hopes that in collaboration with board members they can make a positive impact within the OAMHP members community and the general public.

Outside of his professional environment, Naim is an animal lover and a passionate boater with a keen interest in exploring marine life. He enjoys spending time on the water, engaging in boating activities, and discovering the wonders of Ontario waterways. This hobby reflects his love for nature and his adventurous spirit. 

Liana Palmerio-McIvor is a Registered Psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience in clinical practice. She has been deeply involved in advocacy and leadership roles within the mental health field, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to advancing the profession and supporting her colleagues.

Liana recently completed her two-year term as President of the OAMHP and now serves as Past President, continuing her active involvement in advocacy and policy development. Over more than five years on the OAMHP Board (and its predecessor organization, OACCPP), Liana has held numerous key roles, including Chair of Certification, Treasurer, and Chair of Public Policy.

As Chair of Certification, she implemented critical policies and procedures to streamline the certification of association members, particularly during the establishment of the CRPO. She was instrumental in developing the Validated Supervisor Program, a cornerstone of the association’s efforts to enhance professional standards.

In addition to her contributions to OAMHP, Liana has served on the boards of several charitable organizations. For over 22 years, she has held roles such as President and Treasurer with a local chapter of an international women’s advocacy organization, representing the group as a delegate at international conventions.

Liana also volunteers with the Canadian Red Cross as a Safety and Wellbeing Responder and a member of the Emergency Response Team, providing mental health support during crises and emergencies.