Our Team

Jeff brings over 13 years of leadership experience in addiction treatment, specializing in program development, clinical supervision, and team-building. He holds a Bachelor of Arts and completed graduate-level leadership studies at Royal Roads University. Jeff combines professional expertise with lived experience, leading with values of collaboration, connection, and integrity. Outside of work, he enjoys travel, camping, sports, and exploring the outdoors with his wife and four daughters.

As Clinical Director, Liam provides strategic oversight of The Healing Institute’s therapeutic programs and ensures clinical excellence across all services. Drawing on his own recovery journey and academic training, Liam has developed a leadership style that balances evidence-based practices with compassion and innovation.

In his leadership role, he collaborates closely with senior management to develop programs that meet the complex needs of clients and uphold THI’s commitment to trauma-informed, individualized care.

Aidan is a compassionate mental health and addiction professional with nearly a decade of experience supporting individuals and families through recovery. Drawing on both personal and professional insights, he provides empathetic guidance to those navigating one of the most important decisions of their lives.

At The Healing Institute, Aidan leads the admissions process with care and professionalism, ensuring clients feel supported from their first call. He is also a passionate advocate for reducing stigma around mental health and addiction, committed to helping people take their first steps toward lasting change.

Dr. Forster brings decades of expertise in addiction medicine and chronic pain treatment. As Medical Director, he ensures every client receives individualized, attentive care. A member of the American and Canadian Societies of Addiction Medicine, he is dedicated to advancing treatment standards through clinical excellence and compassion.

Kelsey is a Registered Nurse with over 10 years of experience in acute care, mental health, and addictions. She takes a holistic approach to nursing, caring for the mind, body, and spirit. A Comox Valley native, she is passionate about creating a healing environment aligned with THI’s mission.

Heather brings extensive experience in the hospitality industry and mental health intake support. At THI, she plays a vital role in welcoming clients and easing their transition into treatment. Her compassionate approach helps reduce the stress families and individuals often face during admissions, ensuring they feel supported from the very beginning.

Katie Eaton is a grounded and compassionate leader who believes that meaningful impact starts with intentional action. Her work is shaped by both lived experience and a deep desire to create spaces where healing, connection, and purpose can thrive. Before stepping into her current leadership role, Katie spent years supporting executives at RSG and Imperial Oil—learning firsthand how clarity, trust, and care can move organizations forward. She now brings that same presence to mission-driven work, where structure serves the people it’s built to support.

As Clinical Director, Liam provides strategic oversight of The Healing Institute’s therapeutic programs and ensures clinical excellence across all services. Drawing on his own recovery journey and academic training, Liam has developed a leadership style that balances evidence-based practices with compassion and innovation.

In his leadership role, he collaborates closely with senior management to develop programs that meet the complex needs of clients and uphold THI’s commitment to trauma-informed, individualized care.

Liam has worked with children, youth, and families since 2006 in diverse treatment and educational settings. He holds a Bachelor and Master of Social Work, as well as a Master’s in Counselling Psychology. Liam specializes in trauma, attachment, and caregiver advocacy.

As Trauma and Attachment Specialist with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Calgary, he trained staff and foster families in trauma-informed care, and he continues this work at Camp fYrefly—supporting 2SLGBTQAI+ youth for eight years. An active advocate, he helps organize volunteer work through Gay It Forward. At The Healing Institute, Liam integrates clients’ life stories into their healing, fostering resilience and self-compassion.

Vicki has been a practicing kinesiologist since 1993, bringing decades of experience helping individuals improve physical health and well-being. She has supported clients with neurological disorders, chronic pain, addiction, trauma, depression, and anxiety throughout her career in the Comox Valley.

At The Healing Institute, Vicki designs personalized exercise programs, oversees group cardiovascular and strength activities, and leads weekly outdoor adventures. Her goal is to make physical activity enjoyable and accessible, helping clients build healthy habits that support their recovery and overall wellness.

Dr. Forster brings decades of expertise in addiction medicine and chronic pain treatment. As Medical Director, he ensures every client receives individualized, attentive care. A member of the American and Canadian Societies of Addiction Medicine, he is dedicated to advancing treatment standards through clinical excellence and compassion.

Nicholas has been a Nurse Practitioner since 2013, bringing over a decade of experience in primary care and addiction medicine. After nearly four years with the BC Cancer Agency, he completed advanced training in addiction care through the BC Centre for Substance Use under the mentorship of Dr. Gerrit Prinsloo. Nicholas balances his work between Cedars and his primary care practice, and continues to mentor Nurse Practitioner students from UBC. At The Healing Institute, he provides compassionate, client-centered medical support to individuals navigating recovery.

Kelsey is a Registered Nurse with over 10 years of experience in acute care, mental health, and addictions. She takes a holistic approach to nursing, caring for the mind, body, and spirit. A Comox Valley native, she is passionate about creating a healing environment aligned with THI’s mission.

Nina is a Licensed Practical Nurse with over a decade of healthcare experience, blending compassion with clinical expertise. After a career in the pharmaceutical industry, she pursued nursing as a way to make a direct and meaningful impact on client care, graduating from the LPN program in 2016. Nina has since worked in hospitals, long-term care, and community health, developing a holistic perspective on supporting individuals through diverse challenges. At The Healing Institute, she coordinates nursing services with precision and empathy, ensuring clients feel safe and supported throughout their recovery journey. Outside of her role, Nina enjoys exploring the outdoors and brings that sense of balance and adventure to her approach in healthcare.

Meg brings a wealth of experience in mental health and addictions nursing, supporting clients with a focus on safety and comfort.

Samantha supports the medical team with compassionate care and expertise in addiction recovery.

Jocelyn is dedicated to providing holistic, client-centered nursing care to promote healing and well-being.

Sarah creates a supportive and respectful environment for clients as they navigate their recovery process.

Anna ensures THI’s operations run smoothly behind the scenes. With over eight years of experience in mental health and addictions services, she fosters a supportive workplace culture that empowers the clinical and support teams.

Caroline is a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association and holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. With over a decade of experience in mental health and substance use, she specializes in helping clients integrate trauma recovery and post-traumatic growth into their lives.

Caroline’s holistic approach combines expressive arts, intentional creativity, and trauma-informed practices. She creates a welcoming and empowering space where clients can explore insight, clarity, and lasting change. At The Healing Institute, she supports clients and families in building strong foundations for sustainable recovery.

Deidre brings a unique blend of structure, analytical insight, and compassion to her role as Continuing Care Coordinator. With a Bachelor of Science and ongoing studies toward a Bachelor of Business Administration, she supports clients and families in planning for life beyond treatment.

Her background in high-pressure industries and mental health support equips her to guide individuals through the complexities of aftercare with clarity and empathy. Deidre is passionate about resilience and personal growth, helping clients develop the tools they need for long-term success.

Born in Iran and immigrating to Canada at age 10, Sepideh brings a rich cultural perspective and deep empathy to her role. With experience as a pharmacy technician, care aide, and volunteer in the Bahá'í community, she leads THI’s support staff team with compassion and integrity. Sepideh is dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment for clients throughout their recovery journey.

Phil’s professional journey spans service in the Canadian Armed Forces and decades in corrections and healthcare. Having worked in hospice and dementia care, Phil brings patience, empathy, and personal resilience to his role at THI. His lived experiences allow him to connect deeply with clients as he supports their path toward healing.

Rayna provides steady, thoughtful support to clients during their recovery. She is valued for her ability to maintain a warm, welcoming environment and for her dedication to fostering safety and trust. Rayna’s compassionate approach helps clients feel at ease as they navigate their daily routines.

Brighton entered recovery at a young age and will be celebrating 8 years of sobriety in June. An avid outdoor enthusiast, Brighton loves spending time in nature, often taking long walks with the dog along scenic logging roads. Recovery has brought many blessings, including the joy of his first baby. Brighton's journey is a testament to the transformative power of recovery and the new beginnings it can bring.

Liam supports clients with a calm and empathetic presence, helping create an environment where healing can thrive. He is dedicated to ensuring clients feel respected and cared for as they take steps toward lasting recovery.

With over 20 years in the addiction recovery field, Mike offers a wealth of knowledge and compassion to clients. Known for his calm and supportive demeanor, he creates an atmosphere of safety and trust, helping individuals feel empowered on their journey to wellness.

Heather brings extensive experience in the hospitality industry and mental health intake support. At THI, she plays a vital role in welcoming clients and easing their transition into treatment. Her compassionate approach helps reduce the stress families and individuals often face during admissions, ensuring they feel supported from the very beginning.

Amy is a classically trained chef with a passion for creating nourishing meals that support clients’ physical and emotional well-being. Her career has taken her across the globe, from Australia to Guatemala, allowing her to bring diverse culinary influences to THI. Amy’s love for fresh, flavorful cuisine helps foster a sense of comfort and community in the dining experience.

Andrew is a seasoned culinary professional known for his creativity and attention to detail. With years of experience in diverse kitchens, he brings both skill and passion to THI’s kitchen, ensuring clients enjoy nutritious, satisfying meals as part of their healing journey.

Ben’s culinary expertise and warm personality make him a valued part of THI’s team. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, nourishing meals that support clients’ recovery and help create a welcoming, home-like atmosphere.