Team – Robbie Dean Centre

Your Awesome Robbie Dean Centre Team

Working with existing agencies, our team has developed and implemented all of its programs and services to meet the needs of the communities by working towards closing some of the system gaps.

Monique Yashinskie – Executive Director

Monique is Robbie Dean’s mother. With the help of her community, she created the Centre to ensure individuals and families would not have to struggle so hard to get mental health support for themselves and their loved ones.

She has brought together a team of professional volunteers and staff committed to helping those who courageously take that first step in their journey to mental well-being. Together they have created a safe and trusted place for everyone to feel listened to, cared for and empowered.

Lived experience, compassion and integrity combined with a need to help others guide her every step. With the help of her community, she creates and builds partnerships that enhance current mental health services in Renfrew County with a goal of ensuring everyone has access to the support they so deserve.

In her own words: “I have made a decision to take this pain and turn into something that will fuel change. I have surrounded myself with people that have the ability to carry out a vision of a healthier Renfrew County where no one has to struggle alone” To connect with Monique please email monique@rdfcc.ca

Mbaku Venn – Counsellor

Mbaku is passionate about supporting individuals on their journey towards mental wellness and personal growth. With her approach to counseling rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration, she has a deep understanding of the importance of compassionate support in navigating life’s challenges. Mbaku believes in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Through a client-centered approach, she will work collaboratively with individuals to identify their strengths, clarify their goals, and develop practical strategies for overcoming obstacles and fostering positive change. Each counselling session is tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of the individual, ensuring a personalized and effective therapeutic experience.

Shienna Seguin – Program Coordinator

Shienna brings 15 years of experience in the field as a Social Worker working with federal, provincial and non-profit organizations focusing in the area of mental health. Her own life experiences, combined with education and training, allow her to relate to all walks of life. As the Intake Worker, she will be able to assess your needs, connect you with community resources, and get you started on your path to accessing counselling services.

You can reach her by emailing info@rdfcc.ca

Yvonne Kendall – Office Administrator

Yvonne has spent many years providing administrative support in team settings. She also has a background of serving with community organizations that address needs that directly or indirectly contribute to improved mental health and wellness. Drawing on all these life experiences, Yvonne is happy to provide confidential assistance to callers and connect them to the services they require. You can reach her by emailing info@rdfcc.ca or by calling the centre.

Jamie Biggs – Counsellor

Jamie approaches her work with clients from a person-centered perspective, which means that the environment is personalized to the individual’s needs and goals. Jamie will use a variety of therapeutic methods to enhance your personal growth and self-awareness, including Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). She has worked with individuals who have a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, grieving, relationship issues, body dysmorphia, emotion regulation, and trauma. She approaches her work through a culturally informed perspective, with the goal of creating a safe space for all clients.

Kelsey Severin – Counsellor

Kelsey is a Counsellor with over a decade of experience in walking alongside individuals who struggle with addiction, trauma, homelessness and mental illness. She coaches people on how to take a mindful approach to better understand their frustration, annoyances and anger and make positive changes in individuals personal, interpersonal and work related lives. Regardless of your current life circumstance, she will connect with you to ensure you feel heard while you learn and develop the skills needed to feel less “stuck” and live a happier, healthier tomorrow. With a combination of lived, educational and career experience, Kelsey has the ability to help you propel your life forward while you learn to reconnect with your authentic self.

Kelsey offers hope and stability to those in need through individual counselling and groups for the Robbie Dean Counselling Centre. You can reach her at info@rdfcc.ca