MD
Dr. Pamela Kryskow is the medical lead for the Roots To Thrive Program. She is a founding board member of the Psychedelic Association of Canada and the medical chair of the Vancouver Island University Post Graduate Certificate in Psychedelic Medicine assisted Therapy. Pam is also a a clinical i...
M.Ed., RCC
Todd is a Registered Clinical Counsellor. He entered the field of mental health and substance use as a peer support worker in 1998 and his work since that time, has been focused supporting humans heal impacts of trauma, mental health, substance use challenges. Todd brings experience in various r...
BSW, MSW
Emmy Manson is a proud Snuneymuxw member dedicated to developing strong leadership and opportunities to live their best life. As an elected Council woman for her Nation Emmy has been a champion of addressing trauma and finding pathways to bring love and joy to her community.
Emmy brings a wealth ...
BLit, MAGL
Jimena Achalchiuitl Garcia-Paniagua (Astur/Mayan) is a researcher and Indigenous knowledge holder focused on models and systems for intercultural collaboration between Indigenous peoples for mental, spiritual and planetary health. She is conducting research on the traditional knowledge, philosoph...
Steve Fraser has over 28 years as a first responder. Starting his journey as a volunteer firefighter on the Sunshine Coast, he transitioned to Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services where he retired in 2023 after 25 years of service. During this time with Vancouver Fire, Steve was the co-ordinator of...
Advisory Board
Ph.D
Julian is a scholar-practitioner who has spent his life exploring and guiding others at the complex crossroads where psyche and systems transformation meet. A grateful guest in the Treaty Seven territories of the Canadian Rockies, Julian’s work is seasoned by a love for the bardic traditions, wea...
Steve is a VP for the BC Professional Firefighters Association and is the vice-chair of the BCPFFA's Mental Health Committee, 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 i...
Ex-officio Member
Phil Dames (he,him), a descendant of diverse European roots, resides on the ancestral lands of the Stz’uminus First Nation. He is the son of George and Leslie Dames, a brother, a father, friend to many and a life partner of Shannon Dames.
Phil is a co-founder, the Lead of Operations and playlist ...
Board Meeting Facilitator
Wes’s core practice is recognizing the heart and beauty in everyone. Joining in the early days of the Roots to Thrive community was therefore a no-brainer. During the ‘80s and ‘90s, he worked as a therapist in addiction and trauma recovery in the US and Australia. He focused on providing advanc...
