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Harm Reduction Training – Celebrating Our Graduates!

Rob Boyd

The Life Process Program is a groundbreaking, non-disease-based model designed to address substance use and substance use disorder. Originally offered directly to individuals seeking support, LPP has now evolved to include a Coach Training Program. This initiative empowers peers to become recovery coaches, equipping them to support individuals in their own communities. By fostering local, peer-led solutions, we’re creating new pathways to reach marginalized populations in ways that truly meet them where they are.

Last week, we had the pleasure of welcoming Zach Rhoads and Daithi Conlon from LPP to Ottawa. During their visit, Case Manager Tabitha Morris led them on a tour of the city, showcasing the diverse programs and services Ottawa offers to support harm reduction and recovery. The visit culminated in a proud moment as Zach presented Certificates of Completion to our first cohort of trainees in the Coach Training Program.

“We are honored to collaborate with Ottawa Inner City Health,” shared Zach Rhoads, LPP Coach. “Their dedication and innovative harm reduction services are truly inspiring. Partnering with peers who empower their communities allows us to add future-focused, solution-driven support to enhance substance use health. It’s exciting to see the impact unfolding.”

Now that the training is complete, our newly certified peer coaches are diving into their roles. They have begun enrolling clients into the program and are facilitating both one-on-one sessions and group meetings informed by LPP principles.

This marks the start of an exciting new chapter—one where peer-led recovery becomes a transformative force in our community. Congratulations again to our graduates; your work is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future!

Dr. Simon Hatcher

Medical Director of Psychiatry

Dr. Simon Hatcher is a Psychiatrist at the Ottawa Hospital and Medical Director of Psychiatry at Ottawa Inner City Health, a Scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, and a Full Professor and Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Ottawa. He has worked as a psychiatrist in clinical, research and leadership roles in non-mental health settings all his professional career starting in Leeds, UK followed by 20 years in Auckland, New Zealand before moving to Canada in 2012. Dr. Hatcher is not good at many things but one thing he does try to do well is to give a voice and meaning to people who are suffering from mental disorders. This is integrated into clinical care, teaching, and research through the Hatching Ideas Lab. Away from his professional work, he keeps bees and rides motorbikes, but not both at the same time.

Dr. Rakesh Patel

Medical Director

Dr Rakesh V. Patel is an Assistant Professor of Medicine. He is the past Program Director for the Adult Critical Care Medicine Residency and Fellowship Programs at the University of Ottawa. He is also the current Chair of the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee for The Ottawa Hospital (TOH). He completed his General Internal Medicine (GIM) residency in Ottawa (2001), his Masters in Health Research Methodology at McMaster University (2004) and his Adult Critical Care Medicine Residency training at U of Ottawa (2004). He has been practising adult critical care and internal medicine, at the U of Ottawa and TOH, since 2004. His research interests are varied and include; clinical pharmacology/therapeutics, and medical education. He loves caring for sick patients and teaching. He received the “Clinical Teacher of the Year” award from the GIM residents in 2007.

Kim Van Herk

Mental Health Nurse Coordinator Team Lead

As Team Lead for the Mental Health Nurse Coordinators at OICH, Kim combines extensive expertise, heartfelt leadership, and a deep commitment to compassionate care. She earned her Bachelor of Nursing from McMaster University and her Master’s degree from Ottawa University, where her research focused on improving access to care for pregnant and parenting Aboriginal women in urban settings. As another longtime OICH nurse, Kim is known for her empathetic leadership style and her ability to foster a culture of courage, inclusivity, and trust. With a wealth of experience in mental health care for vulnerable populations, she ensures that every individual feels seen, supported, and valued. Outside of her professional role, Kim finds joy in spending time with her kids, immersing herself in nature, and reading.

Christina Masters

Nurse Coordinator Team Lead

As Team Lead for the Nurse Coordinators at Ottawa Inner City Health, Christina Masters brings a sharp analytical mind, deep compassion, and extensive nursing expertise to her role. She earned her Nursing degree from the University of Ottawa and began her career in the emergency room, holding an emergency nursing certification from the Canadian Nurses Association. Christina is a dedicated harm reduction leader, passionate about education and development. Christina never shies from jumping into a complex, challenging medical situation. Her thoughtful approach ensures every client feels seen, valued, and supported. Within her team, Christina is the steadying force—the glue that holds everyone together. Outside of work, Christina enjoys spending time with her kids, caring for her chickens, cross-stitching intricate patterns, and baking delicious treats.

Louise Beaudoin

Nursing Manager

Louise Beaudoin has been a part of Ottawa Inner City Health since its early days when OICH was a pilot project. She earned her Bachelor of Nursing from the Université du Québec and brings decades of dedication and expertise to her role as RPN Manager. Passionate about working in the grey areas of harm reduction, Louise thrives on finding flexible solutions that meet the community’s unique needs. Outside of work, Louise is all about physical activity and sports! She keeps active and energized through skiing, cycling, and yoga.

Anne Marie Hopkins

Director of Operations

With a background in Social Work and a Master’s in Business Administration, Anne Marie combines compassionate, people-focused care with strategic leadership in her role as Director of Operations. Anne Marie began her journey with Ottawa Inner City Health in 2008 as a volunteer and has since held multiple roles within the organization. Anne Marie is passionate about building community and loves working in the mental health and substance use field, drawn to the complexity, nuance, and humanity of the harm reduction world. Anne Marie’s happiest moment in her career was being part of the team that launched OICH’s Supervised Consumption Site in 2017. Outside of her professional life, Anne Marie is passionate about dogs, reading her Kindle, being outdoors, and quilting.

Joanne Rousseau

Director of Human Resources

Joanne holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Windsor and a Human Resources diploma. She is a Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL). While she’s newer to the OICH team, Joanne brings extensive experience in HR leadership and managing large teams. After years in the corporate world, Joanne sought a role with purpose and heart where her work could make a meaningful impact on the community. In her spare time, Joanne enjoys reading Jane Austen novels, watching Doctor Who, puzzling, and musicals. If you’ve visited the OICH office, you’ve likely been greeted by Lily, Joanne’s friendly office dog.

Rob Boyd

Chief Executive Officer

Rob has worked at the intersection of homelessness, mental health and substance use health in Ottawa for the past 35 years, including over 20 years in senior leadership positions. He has extensive experience in developing programs and services centred on clients’ needs and responsive to the changing environment in which they live. Rob is a champion for the inclusion of people with lived experience in all aspects of the work being done, from systems advocacy to service delivery. Rob lives in the country and likes working around his property and spending time outdoors. He is known as the office dog whisperer, likely due to his calm nature and relaxed energy.