Fully staffed by caring and dedicated volunteers

Mental Health Counsellor

William is a graduate of the Counselling Psychology program at the University of Ottawa. In therapy William works from a person-centred approach and looks to build upon client strengths to create the best therapeutic outcomes. By creating a space for acceptance and empowerment he works with clients to reach their goals in therapy. Of special interest to William is working with the youth and young adult population. Most of all, William is looking to create a positive impact working at Onyx Community Services.

 Mental Health Counsellor (CCPA) 

I am originally from Cuba. I live in Canada since 2005. I genuinely enjoy working as a mental health counsellor. I hold a Master in Counselling and Psychotherapy from both Ottawa University and Saint Paul University. I am very committed to providing culturally sensitive care. I completed my Master thesis in the area of Integrating Canadian Aboriginal Spirituality and Healing practices into Western Models of mental health. 

My theoretical orientation is eclectic with an emphasis on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy as well as Jungian approaches. My aim in therapy is to help individuals reach out into the strongest versions of themselves. 

Certified Alcohol & Drug Counsellor

Registered Psychotherapist

Tom has joined our team with 27 years of experience working in the field of Mental Health & Addictions. He works with clients in both individual and group counselling settings. 

In addition to his training in Mental Health & Addictions from Algonquin , an International Certified Alcohol & Drug Counsellor and a Canadian Certified Clinical Supervisor. 

Drug & Alcohol Treatment Specialist 

Pastor Sue has dedicated her life to helping those in need and the betterment of the community. Having previously spent 14 years preventing individuals from bankruptcy and rebuilding lives through Credit Counselling, Sue’s passion for helping those in need is now being redirected as a Drug and Alcohol Treatment Specialist.

Currently, Pastor Sue works directly with our bail program and attends family courts when possible. Her visible compassion for others affords her the ability to listen to the problems faced by her clients and provide tangible solutions. Her honesty and integrity is admirable and when paired with her impeccable leadership abilities, allow her to be a tenacious asset to our team. By actively seeking out individuals in need within the community, she takes a hands-on approach and has become recognized as a trusted ally to fight for all underdogs alike. Accordingly, Pastor Sue’s door is always open and free of judgement. She encourages anyone in need of support to contact her, regardless of their background or circumstances.

On Leave.

Addiction and Community Service Worker 

I am a military wife and mother of two beautiful daughters and also an addictions community social service worker.  

I have volunteered at the Shepherds of good hope for 15 years and at la Soupe populaire de Hull.  In my free time I enjoy knitting and running with my German shepherd Miss Jett. Together Miss Jett and I have mastered a 5 km run and currently working on 10 km run.  I had a late start with my education because of the choice I made to be a stay home mom.  I first completed addictions and community services at Everest college, after that I went back to La Cité collégiale.  I am now in my third undergraduate year in social work at Laurentian university.  My dream of becoming an addictions social worker is almost complete. I love mental health and addictions.  Giving a helping hand to those who suffer from mental health and addiction is my passion. 

Social Worker

I was born and raised in New York City. I've lived in Canada, now, for four years - the latter two in Ottawa. My primary areas of interest and experience are: major mental illness, housing instability, drug use, domestic abuse and/or sexual abuse, and Trauma.  I believe in the power of human resilience, and kindness. 

We all come into this world with unique skills, histories, and supports.  What I hope to provide is (1) guidance toward a more stable and empowered future; (2) development of a stronger, wiser, and kinder support network; and (3) a deeper understanding of self.  

When a person is able to find their truth, face old wounds and mistakes gently, and celebrate their unique and hidden strengths, I believe, the future holds more hope and promise for all of us. 

Life Coach
Legal Research


Cody volunteers at Onyx as a Life Coach, Reintegration Specialist, and Legal Researcher. He has previously obtained a Bachelors of Kinesiology and a Masters of Applied Health Science from Brock University. Currently, he is completing a Juris Doctor degree at the University of Ottawa. Throughout his educational career, Cody has received a number of academic awards and achievements, including Dean’s Honour List and various scholarships/fellowships. At Onyx, Cody combines his health and legal educational experience to create comprehensive life coaching and reintegration programs for his clients.

Night Supervisor
Community Reintegration Worker


Chloé has recently completed her bachelors in Psychology with a minor in Criminology at the University of Ottawa. She is joining the Onyx evening team in hopes to help the community and pursue a career in correctional and reintegration services.

Administrative and Reception

Mental Health Nurse/RN  

 I have worked as a nurse for over 30 years. I first worked in community  health, then in pediatric nursing, and for the last 12 years in mental  health nursing. 

In mental health, I have worked in hospital and in  clinics. I have worked with people who wee dealing with a lot of anxiety and low moods.  

Also, I have worked with veterans and people who are challenged with addictions and with coping from traumatic experiences.

In volunteering with ONYX Community Services, I offer mental health nursing  support, mental health education one-to-one and in groups, community resource information and crisis support. 

I am licensed as a registered nurse in Ontario and British Columbia [inactive] and as an advanced practice nurse in Colorado and New York  State. 

I look forward to meeting you!

Thunder Bay Ontario Liaison