Brenda Desjarlais

Counselling Services Team Member

Biography

Brenda is a Counsellor at Red Deer Polytechnic. She is an Indigenous woman from Treaty Six territory and a member of Paul First Nation. Her cultural practices are especially important to her. Brenda has been working in mental health for more than 30 years and practicing as a Provisional Psychologist since 2017.

She has a background in developing mental health strategies for Indigenous people at a national and provincial level. She has specialized in addictions, working as an addictions counselor as well as a Director for Poundmaker’s Lodge Treatment Centre. Brenda has instructed courses in suicide prevention, crystal methamphetamines and opioids, addictions, and mental health, as well as provided Indigenous awareness workshops. Brenda has worked in and with many First Nations Communities in different capacities, all relating to mental health.

Brenda has served on boards such as at Strathcona Seniors Place, Canadian Native Friendship Centre, and Poundmaker’s Lodge Treatment Centre, and was an Indigenous Advisory Council member for Homeward Trust. She has participated in many research committees, including one which resulted in a published peer-reviewed article: “Nitsikason: The Brain Science Behind Cree Teachings of Early Childhood Attachment.”

Education

M.A.C.P., Yorkville University
B.A. Native Studies, University of Alberta
Registered Provisional Psychologist, CAP 2703p