Promoting the mental well-being of Veterans, first responders, and their families.
Our Registered Clinical Counsellors offer specialized services dedicated to promoting the mental well-being of CAF & RCMP Veterans, first responders, and their families. They are trained to address the unique challenges faced by these individuals. They provide therapeutic interventions, support, and guidance to address issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Our clinical counsellors work collaboratively with clients to develop coping strategies, improve emotional well-being, and foster positive mental health.
LEAD CLINICAL COUNSELLOR/PSYCHOTHERAPIST, MA, RCC-ACS
Jan McNeill has had a rich and diverse career spanning more than 25 years as a counselling therapist, with a specialization in Trauma, Somatic Therapies, Addictions, and Grief. Her extensive experience encompasses roles in Non-Profit Organizations, Health Authorities, Private Practice and Universities. Jan’s impactful work extended to her role as the Director of Mental Health for the BC and Alberta Guide and Service Dogs, specifically for Vancouver Island Compassion Dogs, where she contributed to developing a program aiding Veterans and First Responders with PTSD/OSI by providing them service dogs. Additionally, she served as Adjunct Professor at Adler University for more than 15 years, where she developed courses focusing on trauma, addictions, lifespan, and others.
Jan was the Addictions Expert and Educator at GF Strong and currently runs support groups at the Nanaimo Brain Injury Program. Jan draws from her diverse experiences to provide a solid foundation when working with clients. She believes in bringing a sense of humour and her practical nature into her sessions, creating a warm and relatable environment for those she works with. Jan feels very honoured to continue working with Veterans, First Responders and their families as the Lead Clinical Counsellor/Psychotherapist for the Centre of Clinical Excellence for Veterans and First Responders Health. She has training in EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Cognitive Processing therapy for PTSD (CPT), CPT for Groups, CBT, Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), and Mindfulness. She advocates for a team-oriented approach when working with clients, emphasizing collaboration for comprehensive care.
SOCIAL WORKER, MSW, RSW
Throughout their career, Omen has remained dedicated to providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives. Omen is enthusiastic about helping clients build resilience, gain self-awareness, and develop effective coping skills to overcome challenges and achieve their personal goals. In addition to their clinical work, Omen regularly participates in professional development to stay current with new therapeutic practices and trends in mental health care. Outside of work, Omen enjoys walks in nature, soccer, cooking, reading, volunteering, time with family, nice relaxation by the beach, research, watching movies, and music, and values the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of their community.
Omen Imoisili is a Clinical Social Worker with more than 9 years of experience in providing compassionate and effective therapeutic services. With a deep commitment to supporting individuals through life's challenges, Omen specializes in working with first responders, and families dealing with a wide range of emotional, psychological, and behavioural concerns. Having worked in diverse settings such as private practice, hospitals, community organizations, and Maximum remand, Omen has developed a rich skill set in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, substance abuse, and relationship issues. Omen utilizes an integrative approach, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT), tailoring each session to meet the unique needsof the individual.
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
With over 30 years of experience in healthcare, Karen serves as a Registered Clinical Counsellor at the Centre of Excellence, specializing in supporting veterans and first responders. Karen brings a wealth of expertise as a Registered Nurse, post-secondary educator, and counsellor. A strong commitment to client-centered, holistic care shapes their approach, focusing on the unique strengths, resilience, and lived experiences of each individual. This perspective allows for a comprehensive, tailored approach to fostering optimal health and well-being. The practice integrates evidence-informed therapies, customized to meet the specific needs of each client. Karen has received training in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for insomnia (CBT-i), recovery maintenance, and mindfulness, while maintaining a deep appreciation for the vital balance between mind and body. “I am honoured to work with those who serve others and appreciate the opportunity to be part of the VFRH team!”