About – Alberta Black Therapists Network

ABOUT US

Founder

Noreen is a founder and has served as the Executive Director of the Alberta Black Therapist Network since its inception in 2020. Noreen is an experienced clinician, speaker, psycho-educational workshop facilitator and a Sessional Instructor at Concordia University. She has presented at both local and international conferences and has reviewed and developed anti-racism and mental health curricula for organizations and postsecondary institutions. Noreen has appeared on podcasts, tv and radio shows and is the 2022 NBCA Professional of the Year, and Momentumwalkin’s 2022 Outstanding Leadership in the Mental Health sector.

Co-Founder

Shayla S. Dube joined ABTN at conception and infancy stages as one of the co- founding members. She is an interprovincially licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience working with children, youth, their families, adults, communities and organizations in multifaceted capacities. Rooted in African indigenous ways and Worldview of UBUNTU, she is passionate about decolonizing mental health and wellness services using culturally responsive and anti- oppressive healing centred approaches that cultivate the integration of intersectionality, and foster equitable human co- existence, collective healing and conscious togetherness. Shayla believes that when mental health care is cultural humility centred, community wellness is possible because we are always better together and we all grow and thrive in communities and spaces where we feel fully seen in our authentic wholeness, not in isolation, complicity and assimilation.

There are two other founding Members to be acknowledged as well.

-Costa Ndlovu

-Candice Hamilton

About ( ABTN )

The Alberta Black Therapists Network (ABTN) is made up by a group of Black licensed and regulated professionals from various interdisciplinary backgrounds working in the field of mental health and addictions. The network was formed out of need- in response to the health inequalities,in particular in mental health experienced by black Canadians, the ABTN understands that it will take anti black racism,anti- oppressive and systematic changes to improve the mental wellbeing for Black Canadians. We believe in the psychological well being of our community, and the society as a whole. Through networking, continued training, and use of evidence-based approaches, and understanding racialized trauma, anti- racist and culturally empowered lens, we strive to ensure the highest quality of therapeutic services are provided to our communities. We aim to increase emotional wellness and the application of self care skills such as self-awareness, self-confidence, positive thinking, goal setting, responsible decision making, and healthy relationships. At the core, we normalize lived experiences,engage in psycho-education to reduce barriers to psychological health and decrease stigma against seeking additional support when needed.

The therapists on the network are professionals who have completed at least a Master’s-level Counselling program, and they are regulated by regulatory bodies such as the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA),the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP), Alberta College of Social Workers ( ACSW),Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA) and Professional Association of Christian Counsellors and Psychotherapists (PACCP).

It is not surprising that our story began with a single meeting and a conversation over food. We met for the very first time to celebrate Black history month in February of 2020 and since then, it has grown to be more than just a meeting. An adage that best describes why and how we came about is “ when you come up with an idea, it’s because there is already a need for it.” This stands true to the origin of ABTN. The health inequalities experienced by Black Canadians have long been researched extensively and these include black Canadians being twice as likely to be mis-diagnosed,and have two times the delay in accessing psychological support. In addition to the inequalities of Mental Health, clinicians often expressed that they feel as though they were the “only” black therapist within their organizations, hence missing their tribe; a space where they can connect and work with other black professionals.

The clinicians who seldom serve black clients echoed that their clients either intentionally sought them or they expressed a sigh of relief when they finally met them due to being misunderstood in the past by clinicians who could not understand their experiences especially when those experiences involved racism and/or racial trauma. As founders of ATBN, we are all resilient immigrants who came from countries that did not treat mental health as a societal problem, but an individual shameful one that was at the back burner of their agenda. Therefore, it is crucial that participants of our services see practitioners who look like them, those whom they can trust to understand and connect with them.

Cognizant of these challenges to mental health, the ABTN was formed. The organization began as a network of Therapists from various interdisciplinary backgrounds working in both mental health and addictions. ABTN understands that it will take and understanding of radicalized trauma and an anti black racism, anti-oppressive and systematic changes to improve the mental wellbeing for Black Canadians. At ABTN we understand that the stigma around mental health conditions is still pervasive in our society. For many Black communities, discussing mental health can be a difficult subject. We are also aware that black Canadians have been, and continue to be, negatively affected by prejudice and discrimination in the health care system. Conscious or unconscious bias from providers and lack of cultural awareness can result in misdiagnosis, inadequate treatment and mistrust of mental health professionals. These disparities can create a distrust in mental health professionals, which can prevent many from seeking or continuing treatment.

Our Mission

To have a healing centered approach for counselling services for the black community with an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and decolonizing lens that focuses on resilience and considers individual wellness needs within the context of their religious and cultural beliefs.

Our Vision

To Empower the Black Community through increased access to mental health and addiction services. We believe that as the community heals, we also heal and as the community thrives, we also thrive.

Our Commitment

To reduce inequalities of access and barriers to mental health and addictions services and create a framework for black communities to be empowered to engage in available services for the continuous improvement and betterment of their health, wellbeing and overall experience.

Our Values

Everyone regards to be treated with dignity and respect.Every person requires equal opportunities to accessing health.

Services Offered

Board Members

DR MIRIAM SEKANDI
Board Chair

Dr Miriam Sekandi is the CEO of the Break Free Zone Brand. She is a trauma-informed educator, workshop facilitator and healing coach. She supports individuals, families and / or professional groups with addressing ancestral, generational and childhood trauma. Miriam moved from Uganda to Canada in 2006 to pursue graduate Studies at the University of Alberta where she graduated with an MA in Human Ecology (2008) and a PhD in Secondary Education (2018). She is a professional development junkie and lifelong learner. Miriam currently holds the position of President with the ABTN Board.

ADMIRE DUBE
Treasurer

Admire Dube is an insurance broker in the city of Calgary. He was born in Zimbabwe and attained his Economics degree at Concordia University in Montreal. Admire has a passion to foster economic and financial independence in the black community. He works tirelessly with his clients to ensure they gain financial literacy they need to have a healthy relationship with money. He holds the position of Treasure with the ABTN Board.

TERESA OHAWA
Board Member

Teresa Ohawa is the owner and operator of Arion Aire, the first female, black owned HVAC company operating in Edmonton, Alberta. Teresa moved to Canada from Kenya to pursue her education in Business. Before devoting her work fulltime to Arion Aire, Teresa worked as a Jr Accountant. In addition, she volunteers with Women Building Futures(WBF) and Girls Exploring Trades & Technology as a speaker and mentor. She is the Secretary on the ABTN Board.

TRACY V. MAPAKO
Co-Board Chair

Tracy V. Mapako is a registered social worker in the province of British Columbia currently finishing her studies with Thompson Rivers University. A resident of Edmonton, AB since 2012, Tracy has worked closely with low-income families, newcomer refugee families & families with children with disabilities. Most of Tracy social work experience is centered around family therapy and support. Tracy's passion is working with children with developmental delays such as autism, ADHD, FASD, ODD, FASD as well as children who have experienced adverse childhood experiences and trauma. A huge advocate for early childhood education & interventions, Tracy describes herself as "a social worker who is all about that PACE - Positive and Amazing Childhood Experiences." Tracy's enthusiasm to support families has led to vast work & volunteer experience with non-profit organizations and respite care agencies. Currently, Tracy works very closely with the reunification team in order to facilitate the bringing back together of families that have had Children's Services involvement. Tracy continues to work with teens and young children and their families with the goal of bringing the family circle together again. Tracy facilitates several Family Group Conferences as well as Family Circles in order to establish family support and to begin the healing process caused by trauma. The vast majority of Tracy's experience is with Indigenous families, and she has a wealth of knowledge & training with different tribes thought Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan. Tracy is a certified play therapist for children under the age of 5 & she also trains parents for Nobody's Perfect, Tripple P Parenting & Brain Builders. Tracy is glad to be a member of ABTN & looks forward to enriching the lives of the black community & black therapists that call Alberta home.

Crystal Caneus-Penner, MA, CCC
Board Member

Crystal is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and she holds a Masters of Arts (MA) in Counselling Psychology. She has over 15 years of experience working with marginalized populations. Crystal has a long career working with children, youth and families. She has worked in residential care as a frontline counsellor and team leader in various programs. She has worked in programs as a developmental behavioural aide, intake coordinator, behavioural strategist for FSCD programs and team trainer/program facilitator. She also runs her own private practice, Crystal Clarissa Counselling Therapy and Behavioural Supports, where she provides individual therapy and behavioral consultation. Crystal also works for a nonprofit agency and she enjoys supporting program clients, staff and running DBT therapy groups

Simone Swenson
Board Member

Simone Swenson is honored to serve as a board member for the Alberta Black Therapist Network (ABTN). She has been a member of ABTN since its inception in 2020. As a Registered Psychologist, her career spans diverse experiences across the mental health continuum. In addition to running her private counseling practice, Healing Journey Psychological Services, she works in public healthcare and serves as a professor in two Master of Counselling programs. Originally from Jamaica, Simone moved to Alberta for her university studies, inspired by a personal experience with a family member diagnosed with schizophrenia. This early encounter ignited her passion for psychology, leading her to pursue an undergraduate degree in Psychology, a master’s in counseling, and clinical registration. Now based in Calgary, she is deeply committed to supporting mental health within Black communities. Beyond her professional work, Simone enjoys playing golf, traveling, hiking, and spending time with family and friends. She looks forward to contributing to the Alberta Black Therapist Network, supporting its mission to uplift and empower Black mental health professionals and the communities they serve.

Ifeatu Nwankwo, MA, CCC, RCT-C
Board Member

Ifeatu Nwankwo is the owner and Clinical Director of Hartwell Counselling, a respected counselling practice known for its compassionate and client-centered approach to mental health. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed clinical counselor, Ifeatu has dedicated her career to supporting individuals and organizations in achieving mental, emotional, and relational well-being. With a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counselling, Ifeatu is licensed to practice in British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and Ontario, offering virtual counseling services across these provinces. Ifeatu’ s commitment to mental health advocacy is also demonstrated through her role on the Discipline Committee of the Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA), where she contributes to maintaining high standards of professional conduct and accountability within the health sciences field. Ifeatu is actively engaged in anti-racism education and Black Lives Matter initiatives within Alberta Health Services (AHS), where she advocates for equitable healthcare and educates providers on fostering inclusive and supportive environments for all patients. Additionally, she serves on the board of the Diversity and Racial Equity Workforce Resource Group (DaRE WRG). This group’s mission is to promote racial equity, dismantle systemic barriers, and ensure compassionate and fair care for all patients within Alberta's healthcare system.

Other Board Members

Tracy V. Mapako is a registered social worker in the province of British Columbia currently finishing her studies with Thompson Rivers University. A resident of Edmonton, AB since 2012, Tracy has worked closely with low-income families, newcomer refugee families & families with children with disabilities. Most of Tracy social work experience is centered around family therapy and support. Tracy’s passion is working with children with developmental delays such as autism, ADHD, FASD, ODD, FASD as well as children who have experienced adverse childhood experiences and trauma. A huge advocate for early childhood education & interventions, Tracy describes herself as “a social worker who is all about that PACE – Positive and Amazing Childhood Experiences.” Tracy’s enthusiasm to support families has led to vast work & volunteer experience with non-profit organizations and respite care agencies. Currently, Tracy works very closely with the reunification team in order to facilitate the bringing back together of families that have had Children’s Services involvement. Tracy continues to work with teens and young children and their families with the goal of bringing the family circle together again. Tracy facilitates several Family Group Conferences as well as Family Circles in order to establish family support and to begin the healing process caused by trauma. The vast majority of Tracy’s experience is with Indigenous families, and she has a wealth of knowledge & training with different tribes thought Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan. Tracy is a certified play therapist for children under the age of 5 & she also trains parents for Nobody’s Perfect, Tripple P Parenting & Brain Builders. Tracy is glad to be a member of ABTN & looks forward to enriching the lives of the black community & black therapists that call Alberta home.

Nicole Andrews

Nicole was born and raised in Canada but is of West Indian heritage. For over 20 years, Nicole has been a kindergarten to grade 9 teacher and a consultant with Edmonton Public School Board. Currently, she is the Assistant Principal of an elementary school in NE Edmonton. Nicole has a deep passion for inclusion, diversity and representation in schools and has completed a Masters in Education, focusing on Culturally Responsive Teaching. Nicole is trained in executive coaching and mediation. Nicole enjoys spending her free time with her family, reading, exercising, volunteering at church and supporting various not for profit organizations.

Mariam “Flavia” Mveba I was born in Jinja, Uganda. Growing up in a culturally rich and diverse nation, I developed a deep appreciation for the traditions, values, and sense of community that define Ugandan society. These formative years instilled in me a strong work ethic, resilience, and a love for learning that would prove invaluable in the years to come. In 1996, my life took a significant turn when I took a bold decision to relocate to Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. This move was driven by curiosity, a pursuit of new opportunities and a desire for personal and professional growth. Adapting to a new country, culture, and climate was not without its challenges, but I faced them with determination and a positive attitude. I pursued my education in the health field at The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology in Edmonton (NAIT). Following my education, I embarked on a rewarding career path in the health sector, where I made significant contributions for over 17 years. My thirst for education did not end there, I took on a new role as Newcomer/Immigrant Liaison after studying Settlement Studies at NorQuest college. Throughout my time in Edmonton, I have been an active member of the community, volunteering for various causes and organizations. Such as Edmonton Food Bank, Uganda Culture Association of Alberta, and Alberta Black Therapist Network. I have demonstrated a commitment to giving back and supporting those in need, reflecting the strong sense of community spirit I inherited from my Ugandan upbringing. In addition to my professional pursuits, and community involvement, my passion for gardening mirrors my commitment to nurturing growth and fostering connections, essential qualities in my work with newcomers. My love for hiking parallels the resilience required assisting newcomers as they embark on their new journeys, and lastly my cooking enthusiasm embodies the appreciation I have for diverse cuisines and cultural integration that I advocate for in my role.