Annual Symposium June 10 – 11, 2026
Supporting Protectors and Their Families: Knowledge, Care, Action
SCHEDULE
DAY 1 - JUNE 10, 2026
Steve Farina, MC
VP for the BC Professional Firefighters Association, Vice-chair of the BCPFFA’s Mental Health Taskforce
Steve is a VP for the BC Professional Firefighters Association and is the vice-chair of the BCPFFA’s Mental Health Taskforce, as well as their Occupational Health & Safety Committee. He has over 30 years of experience in the fire service and was hired as a full-time firefighter in Coquitlam in 1997.
Steve is currently a Captain in the Fire Suppression Division on Engine 1. He also represents the BCPFFA on the BC First Responder Mental Health committee that is chaired by WorkSafeBC, and is the 6th District rep for the IAFF’s Behavioural Health Committee. Steve is also a CISM and Peer support team member for Coquitlam Fire
09:30 AM - 09:45 AM
Opening MC
MC Steve Farina
Derek Sienko
09:45 AM – 10:00 AM
WELCOME
Derek Sienko, Chief Mental Health Officer
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM
EXPLORING WONDERS OF IREMIA
Martin Roach
RCMP Commander – Eastern Region, Assistant Commissioner
Title of presentation:
Leadership Empowerment in Mental Health
Bio:
Assistant Commissioner Martin Roach is from Montérégie, Qc. With origins from Trinidad and Tobago, he comes from a long line of police officers from father to son. After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in criminology and substance abuse from the Université de Montréal, he worked at youth centres for four years before joining the RCMP in 1997.
He began his policing career as a patrol officer in British Columbia. He then joined the Prime Minister’s Protective Detail in Ottawa. In this role, he was able to travel the world, learn about other cultures and get to know the field of international diplomacy. For nearly ten years, Martin Roach was a training instructor and coordinator. He went on to coordinate international and sensitive investigations with RCMP partners around the world.
In 2015, Martin Roach was promoted to Inspector. Appointed Officer in Charge of the RCMP in Quebec’s West District, he was called upon to coordinate the police response to the wave of irregular immigration at Roxham Road. In 2018, Martin Roach was promoted to Superintendent. He has served as Assistant Criminal Operations (CROPS) Officer for Border Integrity and for Organized Crime, before assuming the duties of Criminal Operations Officer for C Division in 2022.
On August 23, 2023, with his diverse background, Assistant Commissioner Martin Roach became Commanding Officer of C Division, a few months before being entrusted with the command of the Federal Policing Eastern Region on April 1, 2024. Appointed Officer of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces in January 2025, Assistant Commissioner Martin Roach is also the national mental health champion for the RCMP.
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Leadership Empowerment in Mental Health
Martin Roach RCMP Assistant Commissioner Commander, Federal policing
11:30 PM – 11:45 PM BREAK
Paulina Sienko
Director, Mental Health Programs
Paulina Sienko has over eight years of experience working with injured workers with various physical and mental health conditions. Paulina’s professional background includes her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from UBC Okanagan with expertise in mental health and vocational rehabilitation.
She is continuously exploring moments of stillness and self- awareness in her personal life which greatly complements her work in trauma, mental health, and overall well-being. When Paulina is not working, you will find her somewhere in nature, playing and exploring with her family, including her fur baby, Winston.
Breanne Harper
MSW
Breanne has a strong background in psychology, holistic wellness, and trauma-informed care. Drawing from her experience as a yoga instructor and nutritionist, she integrates mind-body practices to support clients in cultivating resilience and emotional balance. Breanne is passionate about promoting holistic healing and helping individuals navigate their recovery with compassion, presence, and authenticity.
11:45 PM – 12:45 PM
Pre Admission Program Introduction and Pivot/Mental Health Programs
Paulina Sienko - Director, Mental Health Programs
Bre Harper - Lead Mental Health Practitioner
This presentation provides an overview of our Pre-Admission Stabilization Program and the Pivot online program, both designed to support the mental health and operational readiness of first responders. The Pre-Admission Stabilization Program focuses on nervous system regulation and psychological stabilization to enhance recovery and prepare clients for treatment. The Pivot program is an accessible online intervention that helps clients address early symptoms of burnout, anxiety, and depression that may affect their ability to perform operational duties and manage personal life. Both programs promote early intervention, resilience, and sustained mental health functioning.
12:45 PM – 1:45 PM LUNCH
Lynn Wiseman
BA Psychology, Master of Education
Lynne joined the Diversified team in 2021. She specializes with individuals with anxiety, depression, neurodevelopmental disorders, intellectual disabilities, and acquired brain injuries. Prior to this, she worked as a behaviour consultant in-home and within community settings and was the program director at a private centre. For over a decade, she has passionately worked to improve the quality of life for individuals with exceptionalities and their families.
Upon formally embarking on her counselling journey, Lynne engaged in graduate level training from Yorkville University and California Southern University. She utilizes a wide array of healing modalities including crisis prevention, self-regulation therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, and cognitive behavioural therapy. The opportunity to be a part of the Diversified Rehabilitation clinical team has allowed her to integrate her experience and expertise into a holistic approach towards supporting each individual’s unique healing journey.
1:45 PM – 2:45 PM
EMDR, for treating PTSD and occupational stress injuries.
Lynne Wiseman - Clinician
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy effective for treating PTSD and occupational stress injuries, helping process traumatic memories and reduce symptoms like anxiety, depression, and hyperarousal.
This session will provide an overview of EMDR principles and demonstrate its practical application through a case study.
2:45 PM – 3:00 PM BREAK
Dr. Daniela Winkler
TBA
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Supporting Operational Readiness
Dr. Daniela Winkler
This presentation provides an overview of assessing members’ fitness for duty, occupational health and safety (OHS) considerations, and return-to-work (RTW) processes within the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. It will explore key challenges in supporting member reintegration and workplace functioning, clarify the role of Occupational Health Services, and address common misunderstandings about its function in promoting member health, operational readiness, and organizational effectiveness.
4:00 PM - 4:15 PM BREAK
Phil Lancaster
Business Development & Community Relations Ambassador
Phil Lancaster’s extensive career in law enforcement combined with a passion for excellence and an aptitude for recognizing opportunity ultimately led to a successful career in business. As a former British police officer, Phil brings years of experience working internationally in VIP close protection, as well as service in British Overseas Territories. Throughout his career, Phil received several notable awards and has been recognized for his efforts in the UK and overseas.
As a result of his tenure in diplomatic protection, he established an extensive and global network of contacts that range from government to law enforcement agencies, and he continues to serve as an Honorary Police Officer. Phil has written several journal articles focused on the future of soft target hardening and innovation.
4:15 PM - 4:45 PM
Advisory Board: Making A difference
Phil Lancaster – Community Relations Ambassador
The purpose of the Diversified Rehabilitation Group Advisory Board is to provide strategic guidance and expert insight that supports the organization’s mission, growth, and service excellence. The Board informs program development and strengthens partnerships to enhance mental health services for first responders, veterans, and their families. Phil will present the Board’s initiatives, promote best practices, and support alignment of organizational priorities with the evolving needs of first responders, the veteran community, and the broader industry.
4:45 PM – 5:00 PM
Day 1 Closing Remarks and Networking
- Key takeaways
- Preview of Day 2 focuses on return to work and reintegration
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
DINNER & NETWORKING
Jonathan Williams
Jonathan’s journey has been one of resilience and transformation. At 35, he embarked on a career with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, leaving behind his family to undergo rigorous training. His commitment and dedication were recognized with the Comradeship Award from the Royal Canadian Legion.
In 2017, the weight of trauma and personal struggles became overwhelming. His marriage, already strained, shattered when he discovered his wife’s infidelity. Jonathan’s resilience was tested, but he sought help, confronting PTSD, anxiety, and depression with therapy and medication.
During his medical leave, guided by his therapist, Jonathan rediscovered his passion for music. A seasoned singer-songwriter, music became his solace, leading him to produce an album titled “Rebirth.”
Accepted into the Traumatic Stress Recovery Program, Jonathan found solace and support, learning to trust again and manage his PTSD. This newfound strength empowered him to make the difficult decision to retire from the RCMP and pursue music full-time.
Now, with a new album on the horizon and performances throughout the Okanagan Valley, Jonathan’s story is one of redemption and embracing the next chapter with courage and resilience.
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Jonathan Williams - Entertainment
Jonathan, an RCMP member, faced a challenging life situation stemming from an occupational stress injury and PTSD. Through his participation in the Traumatic Stress Recovery Program, along with his deep connection to spirituality, he embarked on a transformative journey toward psychological well-being. In his path of post-traumatic growth, Jonathan not only resurrected his passion for music but also began supporting others as an alumnus of Diversified, offering guidance and inspiration to those on similar healing journeys.
DAY 2 - JUNE 11, 2026
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM Morning Welcome and Recap of Day 1
Steve Serbic
Canadian firefighter, fire service leader, author, mental-health advocate, and speaker
Steve Serbic is a Canadian firefighter, fire service leader, author, mental-health advocate, and speaker recognized for his work in wellness, resilience, and breaking mental-health stigma — particularly within first-responder communities.
With more than 25 years in the fire service, Steve worked his way from frontline firefighter into senior leadership roles. He served as Chief of Operations with Surrey Fire Service, as well as in leadership positions with fire departments in Esquimalt and Victoria.
In November 2021, he became Fire Chief of the Esquimalt Fire Department on Vancouver Island, where he championed health, wellness, and open communication within the department.
Steve is the author of several books focused on trauma, resilience, and mental health, including The Unbroken: A Firefighter’s Memoir, Extinguished: A Fire Chief’s Memoir, and The Big Fire, a children’s book highlighting courage and teamwork.
A passionate mental-health advocate, Steve works to reduce stigma around trauma and PTSD while promoting wellness for first responders, schools, and the broader community. He regularly appears on mental-health podcasts and has delivered talks at TEDx events and corporate conferences.
For over 20 years, Steve has spoken in high schools, helping youth build resilience and make positive choices. In recent years, he has expanded his focus to reading and engaging with elementary school students to help foster confidence and emotional strength at a young age.
Steve lives on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, with his family and continues to lead, write, and educate — inspiring individuals and communities to build resilience, connection, and hope.
8:45 AM - 9:45 AM
Climbing the ladder to stronger mental health
Steve Serbic, Firefighter
Steve Serbic takes audiences from the streets of East Vancouver to the highest rank in the fire service, and into a journey few ever witnessed behind the badge.
Raised in a fractured home shaped by addiction and trauma, Steve learned early that survival was never guaranteed. As a self-described “street rat” on Boundary Road, he navigated instability, violence, and loss long before he ever wore a uniform. When he joined the fire service, it became more than a career, it became purpose, it became identity, it became proof that your beginnings do not define your ending.
Steve rose steadily through the ranks, eventually leading at the highest level. From the outside, it looked like success. Inside, the cumulative weight of traumatic calls, relentless responsibility, organizational pressure, and the unspoken culture of toughness were quietly eroding him. When a devastating suicide of a close friend and fellow firefighter shook him to his core, and the bridge he had trusted most, his career, his certainty, his sense of self, collapsed.
In Steve’s presentation, he unpacks both the triumphs and the wounds. From career highs to health scares, burnout, and moral injury, he walks audiences to the edge of self-doubt and then shows them what rebuilding truly looks like.
Years of therapy, reflection, and leadership in mental health advocacy have given him hard-won insight into how first responders, and anyone carrying invisible weight, can heal, grow, and lead differently.
This is not simply a story about firefighting.
It is a story about courage, the courage to confront your past, to ask for help, and to redefine strength in a way that makes you stronger.
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM BREAK
10:00 AM – 11:30AM
PANEL: Supporting Protectors
Dr. Ian Burron, Dr. Barb Schmalz, Tara Kelloway, HS Nurse Manager, Cst. Theresa Daranciang
Supporting the safe return of members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to operational duties after psychological injury requires strong collaboration between the member, the Health Services team, external treatment providers, and peer support. Through a trauma-informed and culturally responsive approach, this partnership supports fitness-for-duty assessments, coordinated clinical care, and safe reintegration into work that promotes both operational readiness and work–life balance. This presentation will demonstrate this collaborative process and its impact through a case study.
Dr. Barb Schmalz
Clinical psychologist
Dr. Barbara Schmalz has been a clinical psychologist for 40 years, having worked in hospital, university, private practice and government settings.
Her career started in a hospital setting, providing assessment and treatment for psychiatry and other health units. A subspecialty developed in forensic psychology which included many years of forensic assessments, treatment program development and delivery, and expert testimony at every level of court.
Dr. Schmalz built up a successful private practice beginning in 1992, providing therapy for EAP programs, provincial and federal government contracts, and first responders. Eventually, an interest and expertise in providing services and consultation to police officers was established.
Dr. Schmalz began working within the RCMP occupational health services unit in Alberta, in 2002, providing duty fitness assessments, CISM, treatment referrals and monitoring, specialized unit suitability, and disability consultation. For 5 years she also managed and mentored regional psychological services for RCMP in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nunavut and Northwest Territories.
Dr. Schmalz has been a member of RCMP National committees including mental health and wellness, critical incident response, and suicide response and prevention. She has organized the critical incident response for members following many tragic RCMP on duty deaths, natural disasters, and high-risk incidents, on national and provincial levels. Much of this work has been done in partnership with a comprehensive Peer Support program.
Over the past 20 years, Dr. Schmalz has observed the incredible advancements in research, awareness, psychological treatments and adjunct resources for occupational and organizational stress injuries. It continues to be a privilege and passion to assist individuals and organizations in achieving optimal functioning throughout a police career.
Dr. Barb Schmalz
Senior Emergency Management, Response and Continuity Leader
Senior Emergency Management, Response and Continuity Leader
Pascal began his career as a Paramedic in Vancouver in 1988. After 25 years of working in BC he joined Ambulance New Brunswick where he later retired in 2018. He brings with him over 35 years of experience and progressive leadership roles and he is currently the Provincial Director of Emergency Preparedness for a provincial health authority.
He has a breadth of experiences in leading teams on several very large-scale incidents, including the 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics and the COVID-19 Pandemic healthcare response in NS.
He is a Certified Emergency Manager as well as a Certified Healthcare Executive. He holds a Master of Arts in leadership (Health), certifications from the Emergency Management and Emergency Exercise Design Programs, as well as an extensive education in public safety and emergency management from FEMA and DHS. He is currently a Lead Instructor in the Incident Command System in Canada.
His many honours and awards include, being promoted to Officer of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem, presented with the Governor General’s Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Governor General’s Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal 30 Year Bar, receiving the Order of St. John Priory of Canada Provincial Council Chair’s Commendation, the Service Medal of the Most Venerable Order of St. John of Jerusalem, the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal (NS), as well as the King Charles III’s Coronation Medal.
He has been a presenter, facilitator and an Emcee at many public events, courses, workshops and national and international conferences.
Tara Kelloway
HS Nurse Manager
Executive Director
Laura came to Badge of Life Canada with 32 years of policing experience. She holds several positions within a major Ontario Police Service and understand and identify with those diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Injury, Sanctuary Trauma and Moral Injury.
Const. Theresa Daranciang
Executive Director
Executive Director
Laura came to Badge of Life Canada with 32 years of policing experience. She holds several positions within a major Ontario Police Service and understand and identify with those diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Injury, Sanctuary Trauma and Moral Injury.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM LUNCH
Cst. Rob Farrer
Robert Farrer was elected Vice-President of the National Police Federation (NPF) in June 2024, following four years as an inaugural Director for the Pacific-North region. The NPF represents 20,000 front-line RCMP members, advocating for their rights, working conditions, and professional interests.
Before stepping into union leadership, Sgt. Farrer served for 20 years in the RCMP, policing communities from the Arctic Coast of the Northwest Territories to tackling Organized Crime in British Columbia. As Vice-President, he plays a pivotal role in collective agreement negotiations, serving as Co-chair and negotiator of the NPF’s bargaining committee. Additionally, he provides direct support to members navigating civilian oversight processes and liaises regularly with the Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIOBC).
Sgt. Farrer has pursued extensive education in Law and Policing, Policing and Human Rights, and other legal aspects of law enforcement through Dalhousie University. He also holds a Labour Relations Certificate and a Certificate in Management, equipping him with a strong foundation in advocacy and leadership.
A recognized voice on policing oversight and accountability, Rob has been a panelist at multiple high-profile conferences, including the Law and Policing Conference (2020, 2023, 2024), where he addressed civilian oversight, the differential treatment of police officers in the justice system, and Coroner’s inquests. He has also contributed as a speaker at the Community/Police/Oversight (CPO) Joint Forum, discussing the role of Body-Worn Cameras in policing, and at the International Use of Force Expert Conference, examining the intersection of police code of conduct and statutory criminal investigations.
Through his leadership, advocacy, and expertise, Rob Farrer continues to be a dedicated voice for front-line RCMP members, ensuring their concerns are heard and their rights protected.
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
Supporting RCMP Members Mental Health: The Role of the National Police Federation
Cst. Rob Farrer
The National Police Federation (NPF) plays a critical role in supporting the mental health and well-being of RCMP members. This includes evidence-based research, advocacy for improved services, direct member support, and initiatives that reduce stigma around mental health challenges. The presentation will highlight how these efforts not only improve access to care but also foster healthier working conditions, greater resilience, and a culture that encourages seeking help.
1:15 PM - 1:30 PM BREAK
Derek Sienko
Catherine Pooly
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Supporting Leadership Strengths for a better tomorrow
Catherine Pooly and Derek Sienko
First responder leaders face high-stress demands, and gaps in leadership skills are affecting both their well-being and that of their teams. In September 2025, Diversified held a focus group of first responder leaders to identify key skill gaps. Based on their feedback, a content committee of first responder leaders developed the Supporting Leadership Strengths Workshop. The purpose of this presentation is to share the workshop outline and gather feedback from participants to refine and strengthen the program, helping leaders foster trust, support mental health, prevent burnout, and enhance operational resilience.
2:00 PM - 2:15 PM BREAK
Breanne Harper
MSW
Breanne has a strong background in psychology, holistic wellness, and trauma-informed care. Drawing from her experience as a yoga instructor and nutritionist, she integrates mind-body practices to support clients in cultivating resilience and emotional balance. Breanne is passionate about promoting holistic healing and helping individuals navigate their recovery with compassion, presence, and authenticity.
2:15 - 2:30
Exercise
Breanne Harper, Lead Mental Health Practitioner
2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Past Clients Panel
Courage Under Fire: Voices of Recovery
Lucie Tremblay
Deputy Chief (Retired)
Deputy Chief Lucie Tremblay (Retired) has over 35 years of public safety experience and continues her work with first responders in her role of Partner Success Manager at Versaterm Public Safety. A police executive veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces Military Police, she held numerous positions and command appointments at the National Investigation Service, Counter-Intelligence Unit and Afghanistan multinational brigade investigations. She also held appointments in HR, selection, training and policy development. Career highlights include her contribution to a large-scale domestic operation in support of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games and her role at Criminal Intelligence Service Canada where she contributed to the fight against organized crime. After 28 years of military service, she continued her policing career for 7 years in the role of Deputy Chief of Police at VIA Rail Canada.
A people-oriented leader, focused on officer wellness, she contributed to the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) in various capacities. As a Co-Chair of the HR and Learning committee, she led various wellness and mental health initiatives. She was a member of the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment (CIPSRT) and Public Safety Steering Committee (PSSC) with other federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal public safety organizations to collaborate on improving the mental health and well-being of current and former Canadian Public Safety Personnel (PSP) and their families.
Lucie is an MBA graduate from Athabasca University, holds a bachelor’s degree in administration from the Royal Military College and is a graduate and fellow of the Canadian Police College Executive Development Police Program.
Kim Nocita
Director of Employee Supports and Member Benefits, RCMP
Kim Nocita is a dedicated leader with extensive experience in Occupational Health and Disability Management, committed to enhancing the health and well-being of RCMP members. Since 2019, Kim has served as the Director of Employee Supports and Member Benefits, where she provides executive leadership in the development and implementation of national programs that support members and their families. These programs include:
- – The Health Benefits Program
- – The Support for Operational Stress Injury Program
- – The Spiritual Wellness Services Program
- – The Family Services Program
- – The ID Card Program
- – The National Reintegration Program
Since joining the RCMP in 2011, Kim has held various roles, including clerk, coordinator, advisor, and management positions, where her passion for supporting members has flourished. She played a key role in helping to establish the Disability Management Program in collaboration with the National Policy Center and was involved with the RCMP Employment Equity National Advisory Committee, facilitating the rollout of the Disability Awareness Action Plan in 2017.
Kim has also been a driving force in expanding mental health wellness initiatives within the RCMP, working closely with internal colleagues and external stakeholders. Most notably, she has been instrumental in developing and establishing the National Reintegration Program, which has become a proven national standard of support for members. Through her leadership, she continues to drive initiatives that prioritize employee well-being and organizational success.
Kim holds a Bachelor of Arts from Laurentian University, specializing in psychology, sociology, and education, as well as a certificate in Integrated Disability Management from the University of Fredericton.
Beyond her professional achievements, Kim is the proud mother of three adult sons. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, yoga, and spending time with family and friends.
Awards and Recognition:
- RCMP NHQ Commanding Officer Award for Devotion in Advocating for Persons with Disabilities
- RCMP NHQ Commanding Officer Award for Outstanding Dedication in the world of Occupational Health and Safety
- RCMP V Division (Nunavut) Commanding Officer Award for Invaluable Support to Members of “V” Division
- RCMP Director General Occupational Health and Safety Branch recognition for exceptional work and leadership in support of Member Benefits
- RCMP Chief Human Resources Officer Award for Exceptional Work in the area of Workplace Well-Being
- Military and RCMP Veterans Wellness Program Award
- Commanding Officer’s Certificate of Appreciation – For the development of innovative mental health and wellness initiative to support members of the H Division
- International Chief of Police Association, Webber Seavey Excellence in Law Enforcement Award
- King Charles III Coronation Medal
Corrine Landreville
Manager, Corporate Partnerships, National Police Federation
National Police Federation /
Fédération de la Police Nationale
Prior to joining the National Police Federation, Corrine Landreville had nearly two decades of experience in the private sector working at RBC Royal Bank, where she specialized in relationship management and leadership, consistently delivering exceptional results for her clients and teams. Throughout her career, Corrine championed inclusive leadership and advocated for the advancement of women in executive roles. She has a keen ability to foster trust and collaboration between partners and stakeholders. Beyond her professional achievements, Corrine is deeply committed to social justice, particularly in areas related to mental health and the empowerment of marginalized groups. From her time in the private sector and through her lived experience, she brings a unique perspective on the roles employers and leaders can have with mental health. She actively engages in initiatives that promote equitable access to healthcare and resources for those in need. Corrine’s leadership style is centered on humility, authenticity and curiosity, and reflects her belief that success is driven by both business acumen and a profound sense of social responsibility.
4:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Symposium Closing Ceremony
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
BBQ Dinner and Networking
FEW WORDS FROM SYMPOSIUM 2025 PRESENTERS
Mark Bouchard
Police Officer/Author
Jessica Brown
Police Officer/Firefighter
Dr. Garry Hawryluk
Psychologist
Steven Farina
Firefighter Captain / VP - BC Professional Firefighters Association