Dr. Jody Arndt

Director of the Wellness Services.

(she/her/hers)

Since 2022, I have led Wellness Services at Mount Royal University as Director, managing Health Services, the Injury Prevention Clinic, Student Counselling Services, and the Healthy Campus Team. My mission is to ensure the MRU community benefits from comprehensive programs that actively support physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. Collaborating closely with our Wellness Services teams, I’ve spearheaded impactful initiatives such as Nourish U, addressing food insecurity, and the After Hours Peer Support Center, providing crucial after hours crisis support for our student population. I bring into this role an MSc in Psychiatry (U of A), a PhD in Psychology (U of C), and over a decade of healthcare leadership experience. When I’m not at work, you’ll find me climbing, mountaineering, snowboarding, or enjoying quality time with my kids.

Mariberth Blanco

Administrative Assistant to the Director of Wellness Services.

(she/her/hers)

As the Administrative Assistant to the Director of Wellness Services at Mount Royal University, I play a key role in supporting students and staff by managing various administrative tasks, including scheduling, communication, and record-keeping. My responsibilities also extend to handling the Wellness Services budget and ensuring thoughtful financial management to benefit the university community. With 17 years of experience in administration and student services, I work closely with the Director and team to maintain access to essential resources that foster student well-being.

Drawing on my background in administration, finance, and Information Technology, I am passionate about supporting student success in academic, emotional, and social realms. I am committed to creating an inclusive environment where students feel safe and encouraged to seek help when needed. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, singing, dancing, exploring new places and spending time with my family.

Yemi Adeyemi, MD, MPH

Manager of the Healthy Campus Team

(she/her/hers)

My journey into health promotion began with earning a medical degree in Ukraine, driven by a passion for empowering individuals to take charge of their health through education. This passion deepened when I completed a Master’s in Public Health in the United Kingdom, which broadened my understanding of community wellness and prevention. In Nigeria, I focused on sexual and reproductive health advocacy, leading award-winning educational initiatives to bridge gaps, counter misinformation, and provide accurate resources. My diverse global experiences bring cultural sensitivity, empathy, and innovation to my approach, enabling me to address health promotion through an inclusive lens.

Now, as the Manager of the Healthy Campus Team, I lead a dedicated group delivering creative and timely health promotion strategies tailored to meet the evolving needs of our student community. From workshops and infographics to collaborative events, we thrive on thinking outside the box and building strong partnerships across campus. When I’m not working, you can find me dancing to Afrobeat music or spending time with my family—moments that remind me of the importance of balance and joy, values I strive to bring into my leadership and advocacy every day.

Mariana Liconte

Administrative Assistant

(she/her/hers)

As an Administrative Assistant for the Healthy Campus Team at Mount Royal University, I provide essential support to the manager and team, ensuring smooth office operations and the success of our coordinated programs. My role includes managing administrative tasks, facilitating communication, and assisting with logistics to help deliver impactful wellness initiatives to the university community.

I am passionate about fostering a healthy and supportive campus environment where students feel empowered to access resources that enhance their well-being. Working closely with my team, I help ensure that our programs run efficiently and effectively, contributing to a culture of wellness and student success.

With a background in administration and customer service, I bring strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming space.

Outside of work, I enjoy travelling and staying active. I prioritize wellness in my own life and love encouraging others to do the same.

Telaina Wallace

Health Promotion Specialist

(she/her/hers)

I hold a Master of Public Health from the University of Saskatchewan and currently work as a Health Promotion Specialist at Mount Royal University on the Healthy Campus Team. In this role, I develop and coordinate evidence-based programs that prioritize a holistic, inclusive and strengths-based approach to student well-being. My work is centered around fostering environments that support student growth and resilience. By collaborating with various campus groups, I strive to help students build the wellness tools they will need throughout their academic journey and empower them to carry these tools with them long after graduation.

Ashley Barrett

Mental Health Outreach Coordinator

(she/her/hers)

 With a deep recognition towards the transformative power of peers supporting their communities, my work has always focused on mental health and creating caring spaces of all kinds. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Alberta, where my passion for fostering these environments began. In my former role as Peer Support Centre Coordinator at the UofA, I oversaw a peer-led service offering supportive listening and crisis intervention. Now, as the Mental Health Outreach Coordinator at Mount Royal University, I develop and implement mental health programming, including initiatives like Steps to Well-Being, Peer Health Educators, and annual mental health campaigns. My work is driven by a great care for students, an understanding of their challenges, and an immense admiration for their resilience. It’s truly an honor to guide and empower the absolutely incredible student volunteers who strengthen the MRU community with their care and enthusiasm.

Charmène Brewer

Health Outreach Coordinator

(she/her/hers)

I joined the Healthy Campus team because of my passion for helping others lead a healthier lifestyle and wanting to make an impact on students as they navigate university life. Driven by a love for sports and an enthusiasm for teaching and educating, I strive to create a lasting impact on students by providing them with the knowledge and tools they need to live active, healthy lives both during their time in school and beyond. I am dedicated to inspiring and empowering students to take charge of their physical health and overall well-being and to leave MRU with more skills, knowledge, and friendships than they came in with. I have been a part of the Peer Health Education Program since its inception at MRU, and I have enjoyed watching the students that volunteer with me grow and flourish in their roles. And as a Health Outreach Coordinator, getting the opportunity to write reference letters for the students in the next stage of their lives has been thoroughly rewarding. I am a wife and mother to 2 sporty kids and 1 rambunctious dog, and to keep active, I play hockey and attend F45 classes!

Julia Nicholls

After Hours Peer Support Program, Coordinator

(she/her/hers)

I am a dedicated Registered Social Worker (she/her) with a Master of Social Work in Leadership in Human Services from the University of Calgary. My journey began at Mount Royal University, where I earned a Social Work diploma before completing my Bachelor of Social Work at the University of Calgary. Over the years, I’ve developed a diverse background, leading and building high-performing teams, managing programs and projects, and providing specialized supervision in team leadership and social work practice. My experience spans areas such as poverty reduction, financial empowerment, and crisis intervention.

As one of the Program Coordinators of the After Hours Peer Support Centre at Mount Royal University, I strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all students. My practice is rooted in transformational and servant leadership, with a focus on coaching, capacity-building, and collaboration. I value humor, respect, education, community, and wellness, and I am passionate about driving innovation within the social work field.

My ultimate goal is to elevate the social work profession and improve the quality of life for both current and aspiring social workers by fostering empowerment and championing systemic change.

Sarah Dubreuil Karpa

After Hours Peer Support Program, Coordinator

(she/her/hers)

 Born and raised in Calgary, I’ve always drawn from my diverse background and wide-ranging interests to guide my work in supporting individuals and communities. With Master’s degrees in both Education and Social Work, I bring an interdisciplinary approach to everything I do. I combine expressive arts, outdoor experiences, and experiential learning to offer a holistic perspective when helping others navigate their journeys.

At present, I serve as the Coordinator of the MRU After Hours Peer Support Centre, where I continue my work helping students navigate personal growth through both practicum and volunteer experiences within the program. I’m passionate about fostering a supportive, inclusive environment where individuals can thrive and find a strong sense of community and belonging.

Over the past 15 years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients across the lifespan, from early childhood to adulthood, in facing challenges like mental health concerns, addiction, domestic abuse, homelessness, grief and loss, identity (re)discovery, and crisis support. For the last 9.5 years, I have been supporting youth aged 15-20 in an educational setting. Additionally, I run a private practice in Calgary’s Beltline, where I apply my clinical skills in a more personalized, one-on-one environment.

Outside of work, I’m a mom of two, who keeps me on my toes every day, and I’m an avid pug lover. When not spending time with my family, I love expressing myself through art and poetry, and I enjoy outdoor activities like whitewater rafting and rock climbing. When life slows down a bit, I plan to further my formal education in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, driven by my passion for finding new ways to engage and support students in all aspects of their educational journeys.

Jennifer McCormick

Chair of Student Counselling Services

(she/her/hers)

When I was a university student, I came to realize that my education was not limited to textbooks and the classroom. It felt like being in school was challenging me to explore who I thought I was and what I valued.

As a psychologist, I have come to appreciate the multitude of experiences that post-secondary students have including coming from a range of locations, having a range of school and life experiences, and dealing with a large array of passions and stressors. For me, counselling involves creating opportunities to explore what these experiences mean to you along with finding resources and skills (internal or external) to get the most out of your MRU years.

In addition to my work, I also enjoy painting/crocheting, listening to audiobooks/podcasts, and spending time with my spouse and children.

Claire Grant

Administrative Assistant to the Chair of Student Counselling Services

I am honoured to have been a part of MRU for 6 years. I worked previously with Access and Inclusion Services where I was able to work directly with students to understand their needs and the resources available to them at MRU. In my position with Student Counselling Services, I enjoy both the opportunity to work with the Chair of the department and again work directly with students to provide them with the best possible care and service.

Originally from England, I have lived in both Ontario and Alberta and have travelled extensively across Canada. I have a BA from Trinity College at the University of Toronto and a varied work experience including Global Toxicology, RIM, The Local Health Integration Network, SAIT and the University of Calgary.

Maria Vaandering

Administrative Assistant

As an Administrative Assistant at Student Counseling Services, I’m here to help ensure students have a seamless and supportive experience when accessing care. I manage everything from scheduling appointments to assisting with intake paperwork, allowing students to focus on their well-being.

I’m committed to creating a welcoming environment where students feel comfortable seeking help, especially considering the pressures that come with university life.

I work closely with our counselling team to make sure students receive the support they need with the utmost professionalism and confidentiality. My goal is to be a friendly and approachable resource, ensuring students feel heard and supported.

I’ve had the privilege of working at Mount Royal University for 11 years, which has given me a deep understanding of the needs and challenges students face.

Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, travelling to new destinations, and training at the gym. As a certified personal trainer, I prioritize staying active and maintaining a balanced lifestyle, and I’m passionate about helping others do the same.

Ricardo Avelar

Counsellor

(he/him/his / they/them)

Hey everyone!  I’m Ricardo Avelar; I’m a Registered Psychologist with a Master of Education degree in Counselling Psychology.  I strive to facilitate safe and collaborative conversations with folks.  In other words, I intentionally ask unassuming questions, acknowledge your strengths, listen non-judgmentally, suggest alternative perspectives, and offer evidence-based strategies.  While I have specialized knowledge in identity development, sexuality and relationships, and sexual violence/trauma, I also support individuals struggling with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, career uncertainty, communication or assertiveness skills, neurodiversity, stress management.

Outside of work, I enjoy activities like boxing, gymnastics, singing, reading, playing tennis, and spending time with friends/family.

Sonya Flessati

Counsellor

(she/her/hers)

I was born and raised in Calgary, and I am a Psychologist and Associate Professor working at MRU since 2002. I have a Master's Degree (Clinical Psychology) from Lakehead University and a Ph.D. (Counselling Psychology) from the University of Alberta.

I love my work with students – the diversity of their issues, their uniqueness, and the resilience that they bring to counselling, during a time of life transition and movement towards establishing one's identity, values, and a sense of meaning and purpose. It is fulfilling to be able to help students identify their best strengths and how they can be used to work with life's challenges.

When I am not at work, spending time with loved ones, walking my dog Casey, and being out in nature and in my garden provide me with a sense of contentment and wellness. When I am doing these things, I know that I am living well.

Michael Huston

Counsellor

(he/him/his)

I am Registered Psychologist, and a counsellor at Mount Royal since 2001. I completed a BSc in psychology at the University of Alberta and a Master's degree in Educational Psychology at the University of Calgary. I have experience working with a broad range of personal, career, and educational concerns.

I tend to think of counselling being about change – that it's a learning environment where we work together to think of goals, changes or outcomes, and to determine what needs to be learned to move in a preferred direction. Most concerns can be approached this way – as a learning opportunity. I tend to think of problems as being part of a normal human experience and that we can all learn how to cope better with the problems life presents.

I very much enjoy my work and appreciate the opportunity to assist students in addressing their concerns and creating desired changes. I like the idea of being tidy and organized.

Mirjam Knapik

Counsellor

(she/her/hers)

I am a Registered Psychologist and came to Mount Royal in 2009. I have a BA from the University of Victoria and a Ph.D. from the University of Calgary.

Early in life, I was struck by family stories that spoke of resiliency, perseverance and healing in the face of painful experiences. I wanted to facilitate this growth and healing with others and initially did so as a youth worker. Then I completed my degrees so that I am now able to do this work intensively as a counsellor.

When I meet with students I am curious about their strengths and what they've done to manage their challenges, as well as explore with them new perspectives and possibilities. For me, it's about helping others determine what they want their life to be like and, together, figuring out how they'll get there. 

In my life I love to make music with others and enjoy being outside to garden and hike.

Danni Lei

Counsellor

(she/her/hers)

I am a registered psychologist and am excited to have joined the MRU Student Counselling Team. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Ottawa and a Master's of Science degree in Counselling Psychology at the University of Calgary. I have previously worked in a variety of contexts and have immensely enjoyed working with post-secondary students at the University of Calgary Wellness Centre, as well as with the Cumming School of Medicine, working with medical residents.  

I am passionate about supporting students through the demanding pressures of life by working collaboratively to identify hopes and preferences that align with people's unique histories and backgrounds, and to find ways of moving towards those goals. Working from a client-centred and strength-based perspective, I hope to help people discover their own wisdom, knowledge and skills that might assist them with their challenges and difficulties. As a 1.5 generation immigrant to Canada, I am also curious to explore the cultural, familial and societal nuances that influence identity and health/wellness. 

When I have free time, I enjoy listening to podcasts, exploring the mountains and trails of Alberta in all seasons with my partner and dog, savouring delicious foods at Calgary restaurants, and also returning to the beautiful lakes of Northwestern Ontario that I grew up with.

Janet Miller

Counsellor

(she/her/hers)

I'm a psychologist at Mount Royal who provides counselling support to students on a variety of topics including career uncertainty, self-discovery, growth, relationships, trauma, crisis, depression, resiliency, anxiety and grief. I also absolutely love working with student leaders and volunteers. My approach to counselling has been influenced by existential psychology, positive psychology and client-centered therapy. I like conversations about meaning and purpose, and I love talking about the "big stuff" in life.

Outside of my office you'll find me on campus welcoming students into Residence, coordinating the Student Leadership Conference, or doing research about student success. In addition to my Mount Royal identity, I'm a mom, an amateur potter, and a coffee enthusiast. I love learning new things and appreciate the opportunity to be of support to our campus community.

Zen Sajan-Ladhani

Counsellor

(she/her/hers)

I believe it takes courage to be vulnerable which is why I think accessing counselling is about already being strong and becoming stronger. This is achieved by reflecting, enquiring, processing and engaging in change. As a counsellor, it's an honour to be included in this journey. I encourage you to think about reaching out to the caring team at MRU Student Counselling Services because counselling is for everyone and so beneficial for all of us! Professionally, I am a registered Social Worker (RSW, MSW) with a clinical specialization with many years of experience working with children, youth, young adults, adults, couples and families in various settings. In all aspects of my life, I strive to have and offer others hope, joy and of course some zen!!! 

Kelly Waters-Radcliffe

Counsellor

Here’s who I am: Kelly, A middle-aged fellow, husband and father of two. I’ve travelled a bit. I love art and sometimes paint. I love music but know only three chords on my guitar. I should probably go to the gym. And I’ve been a practicing therapist for about 18 years – it does take practice. The more people I meet, though, the more fully I’ve come to understand one basic thing: problems are problems because they interfere with what’s meaningful. When our needs aren’t met, when we fall out of line with our values, when our strengths go unused, and when we’re trapped in routines that don’t match our hopes, then life is drained of meaning. We disconnect. Disconnection can be felt in many ways, including but not limited to confusion, helplessness, anxiety, depression, and anger. Disconnected people are in pain, and people in pain respond in many ways, including but not limited to: avoiding, withdrawing, risk-taking, engaging in addiction, locking into conflict, acting violently, self-harming, and attempting suicide.

My practice is to help people find words for what's meaningful to them. When we find words our troubles become more understandable and 'visible'. And when things are understandable, new options emerge where once there seemed few or none. It becomes possible to reconnect with life in meaningful ways. This, I believe, is therapy.