Journey to CMHA-Edmonton

Feb 2nd, 2026

When I first found CMHA-Edmonton, it was back when the Distress Line was part of The
Support Network. I discovered the Line when I was a practicum student in MacEwan
University’s social work program.

I distinctly recall sitting in a classroom within the first few days of starting my program,
flipping through the booklet that contained the hundred or so local agencies that students
had to choose from to complete their field placement.

There was a lot of pressure to find the perfect placement. I wanted an experience that
helped me learn and grow and expose me to as wide a range of clients as possible. I
wanted to experience as much as I could and wanted to really feel that what I was
doing was making a difference in someone’s life.

The Distress Line appealed to me because so many people sang the praises
of their training program and of the excellent experience of previous students who had
completed their practicum on the Distress Line.

When I first began my social work education, I knew that although I hadn’t lived a
completely sheltered life, I had a lot to learn and what I had lived through would help me
understand some of what the callers were feeling. I have so many stories from those
months of my practicum. Stories of loss and heartache and pain. And also, stories of
amazing strength and survival.

It wasn’t long before I was fiercely passionate about the Distress Line and the
place it has in helping people. There is absolutely nothing like talking to someone for a half
hour and having them go from feeling complete and utter despair to reconnecting to their
strengths and hopes for the future. It is certainly better than any drug on the market.

My experience on the Distress Line was so positive, that at the first opportunity that came
my way, I applied for a position. I have now been with the organization for more
than 20 years. As the manager of training and education, I support our training team in
teaching listening skills to new volunteers and see the incredible work they do in
supporting others.

I have never regretted choosing CMHA-Edmonton and the Distress Line as my practicum
placement and I am still as passionate about the support we bring for people in the
Edmonton area as I was on my first day.