About Us
MHPO is a volunteer run organization that has been serving its members through in-person networking and professional development for nearly 40 years
Our mission is to provide community for mental health practitioners- to gather connect, network, get support, collaborate, grow, and receive cost-effective quality clinical and business professional development. There’s nothing like being part of a tribe, a culture that shares the same values.
Whether you are a student, a new grad, or a seasoned professional, this is the place for you!
The organization was founded in 1986 and formally named National Capital Employee Assistance Program Association in 1989. To reflect the growing and more diverse membership, the name was changed to Mental Health Professionals Ottawa (MHPO) in 2019.
When COVID hit in March of 2020, MHPO quickly pivoted from in-person to online workshops and networking, which allowed us to reach more mental health professionals nationally.
This year, 2025, we have an energetic new Board, including a strategic advisor. As part of the strategic direction to improve the services and support we offer to our Membership and Mental Health Community, we’ve re-commenced offering networking and social events, and in-person workshops. We are continuously adding to our line up of monthly workshops and other offerings.
In addition to the expanded programming, we’ve restructured the Board and undertook the development of a new website, with many incredible features. We’ve added a freshly designed Student and Professional Member Directory, and a Calendar that now includes Event Registrations and Payments. Our members can now add their own events they want to promote into the Calendar (see FAQs). Do you have a position you are searching to fill, advertise it in our Career Corner.
We want to hear from the community! If you have programming suggestions you’d like to see on the calendar or have a passion an area of practice which you would like to share by presenting a Webinar or Blog, Contact Us.
We are committed to continuous improvement and want to hear from you.
MHPO Board Members
Marian Meade, Chair
As Chairperson, I’m responsible for governance of MHPO, leading board meetings, recruiting and orienting new board members and acting as spokesperson for the organization. I ensure that the mission and vision of MHPO is adhered to and work closely with our strategic advisor, Arlene Dorey, and Co-Chair, Natalie Bell
Natalie Bell, Co-Chair
As the Vice Chair and Program Coordinator, I am responsible for seeking and supporting professionals to deliver practical workshops that enhance learning and therapeutic practice. I also participate in organizational decision-making and collaborate closely with the Chair, assuming her duties when she is unavailable.
Arlene Dorey, Strategic Advisor
A serial entrepreneur, Project Manager and NLP Master Practitioner. In my role as Strategic Advisor on the MHPO Board of Directors, I spearhead innovative initiatives that guide the organization's ongoing evolution to enhance MHPO’s member services and support.
Raymond Meade
I am a Healthy Gamer Institute Certified Coach and Direct Support Professional pursuing my Bachelor of Social Work through Carleton university.. My career goal is to practice psychotherapy, focusing on men's mental health
Liam Powers
Liam Powers, BSW, is a dedicated advocate for mental health. As secretary of MHPO, Liam distributes the meeting agenda, records and distributes meeting minutes and follows up on action items.
