Alsusuti Aboriginal Crisis & Counselling Services

Mindy Gallant-Zwicker

Cultural Ceremonies and Services

 Mindy is an active member of the aboriginal community and has been walking the spirit path for several years - learning the spiritual and traditional ways, including smudging and drumming, from her native elders and pipe carriers. It is a widely held aboriginal belief that these traditional healing practices help center and cleanse individuals of negative emotions and facilitate the reconnection to native tradition and cultural practices. 

Robyn Hazard  RSW, MSW

Clinical Therapist

 As an aboriginal growing up both on and off reserve and a second generation residential school survivor, Robyn's unique perspective led her to choose a career path that would allow her to give back to aboriginal communities. She has been with Alsusuti for 6 years now, providing counselling to our aboriginal clients.   Holding a Masters of Social Work degree Robyn has years of work experience in many facets of human services from counselling and family supports to child protection and  adult special needs.  Her varied experiences have only enhanced her counselling abilities.  

Michelle LeBrun  BBA, MSW, RSW

Clinical Therapist

A band member of Piktu'k First Nation, Michelle has been providing therapeutic support to Indigenous persons, couples and families since 2012. Michelle was previously employed with the Nova Scotia Health Authority but has now returned to Alsusuti full time.  Additionally she has experience in both the post-secondary and employment/training sectors where she provided advising and support to students, faculty and community members. Michelle frequently  facilitates groups and programs on a variety of mental health and wellness topics and stresses the importance of balance and culture.  She is rooted in a holistic approach that values and respects Indigenous teachings and knowledge.

Brenda Gear  MSW. RSW

Clinical Therapist

 Brenda is indigenous, hailing from Nunavut.  She is an experienced, trauma informed, social worker with a great deal of experience providing mental health services in Indigenous communities.

In her career, she has also used her knowledge, skills, and experience to further community, regional and provincial health care mandates that are Indigenous-specific and prevention focused. 

Although currently employed with the Nova Scotia Health Authority, we are pleased to welcome Brenda to the Alsusuti team on a part-time basis.

Wayne Toney RCT-C

Clinical Therapist

Wayne has been offering mental health support services to aboriginals through his private practice for some time now.  We are happy to welcome him to the Alsusuti team on a part time basis.  His passion for and dedication to the work make him a valuable addition to the team.