Courtney Defriend
About Courtney Defriend
Courtney Defriend serves as the Regional Manager for Mental Health and Wellness at the First Nations Health Authority, a position she has held since 2018. She holds a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Royal Roads University and has previously worked as a Sessional Instructor at the University of Toronto.
Work at First Nations Health Authority
Courtney Defriend has held the position of Regional Manager, Mental Health and Wellness at the First Nations Health Authority since 2018. In this role, Defriend oversees mental health and wellness programs, focusing on the unique needs of First Nations communities. The position involves collaboration with various stakeholders to enhance mental health services and promote wellness initiatives tailored to Indigenous populations.
Education and Expertise
Courtney Defriend has a strong educational background in leadership and mental health. Defriend earned a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Royal Roads University, completing the program from 2013 to 2015. Prior to this, Defriend obtained a Bachelor's degree in Child and Youth Care from Vancouver Island University, studying from 2007 to 2011. Additionally, Defriend holds a Certificate in Mediation: Family from the Justice Institute of British Columbia, completed between 2016 and 2017.
Previous Experience at University of Toronto
Before joining the First Nations Health Authority, Courtney Defriend worked as a Sessional Instructor at the University of Toronto from 2018 to 2019. In this role, Defriend contributed to the academic development of students in the Toronto area, sharing expertise in mental health and wellness topics. This experience provided valuable insights into educational methodologies and student engagement.
Achievements and Recognition
Courtney Defriend was awarded the Governor General's Gold Medal, recognizing outstanding academic achievement. This honor reflects Defriend's commitment to excellence in education and professional practice, highlighting contributions to the field of mental health and wellness.