CBDC Restigouche remains committed to providing exceptional services to its clients throughout the region. We strive to promote innovation in our community—whether through creating partnerships with local entrepreneurs and other CBDCs, exploring new growth opportunities, or implementing advantageous services and programs that benefit residents in our area.
2024–2025 has been marked by significant accomplishments and notable successes. We awarded over $7.2 million in loans across various sectors, thereby supporting the growth of near 70 local businesses and contributing to the creation of nearly 100 jobs in the Restigouche region. Regarding the Self-Employment Benefit Program, administered on behalf of Working NB, over $385,000 in Employment Insurance benefits were distributed over 50 weeks, generating an additional 64 jobs in the region. Through the initiatives of CBDC Restigouche, we continue to drive job opportunities and promote local innovation, demonstrating our commitment to supporting the success and growth of businesses in our community.
Our community sector, Restigouche Family Services, plays a crucial role by offering a comprehensive range of support services, including various counselling and specialized therapies. It also provides employee assistance programs, industrial and organizational psychology services, and services related to sexual and gender diversity. Our community sector also includes the Youth Priority Centre, a group home that offers a safe and therapeutic environment
for children aged 6 to 18. The Stabilization Centre provides intensive support for youth aged 12 to 18 through clinical interventions that address crises and plan for community-based treatment. Finally, our specialized homes provide residential services tailored to children and adults’ developmental, therapeutic, physical, or emotional needs, supporting their autonomy and full potential.
We wish to emphasize the importance of our employees—whether administrative staff, those involved in national and provincial projects, therapists, experts, or those working in our centres and homes. Their dedication enables both youth and adults to thrive. Supervisors and managers ensure everything runs smoothly, connecting the various services. All of this is orchestrated by our Executive Director, Michel Guitard, whose strategic and human-centered leadership inspires and guides our organization toward success.
We also warmly thank the members of our Board of Directors for their valuable support and collaboration.
For 37 years now, CBDC Restigouche has continued to grow into a dynamic organization with over $45 million in assets and a team of more than 160 dedicated employees. This progress is the result of our commitment and hard work, and it drives us to pursue our mission with determination.
CBDC Restigouche plays a key role in the economic development of our region. Our initiatives have led to the creation of strong partnerships with regional, provincial, and national stakeholders, fostering innovation and competitiveness. Through our expertise and dedication, we have contributed to the success of numerous projects and to improving the quality of life in our communities.
This year, we experienced exceptional growth in the business sector. Our loan portfolio increased by over 2 million, reaching a total of $22,874,017. Thanks to our support, local employers were able to expand their operations and enhance their competitiveness.
Our community sector (Restigouche Family Services) maintained its commitment to delivering exceptional services to individuals and families by offering a variety of therapy services. We also strengthened our support through various programs for First Nations individuals. Notably, we opened our new Stabilization Centre, which provides tailored support for youth aged 12 to 18. In addition, we launched new services focused on sexual and gender diversity. We continue to provide speech therapy and reading rehabilitation services. Our certified Snoezelen multisensory room also offers a calming and stimulating environment for our clients. The
stability of our staff in our supervised residences and group home has been a key factor in our success. We worked closely with our community partners to ensure our services are adapted to the unique needs of our clients.
We wish to express our gratitude to our key partners, including the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), various federal and provincial departments, the Atlantic and New Brunswick CBDC associations, the CBDC Network, SACD, CAE and CF Canada, Vitalité, the Addiction Treatment Centre, accounting firms EPR and Allen, Paquet & Arseneau, the InspireAction Centre, various banks, and our federal project partners. Their support and collaboration have been essential to our success.
Finally, I would like to thank my exceptional team. Whether in the business or community sectors, every staff member plays a vital role in our organization. I also thank the board members for their time and dedication over the past year. We are grateful for the progress we have made, and we remain committed to providing ongoing support to the entrepreneurs and residents of Restigouche. Together, we will continue to develop a dynamic and prosperous region where everyone can thrive.
Michel Guitard - Executive Director
Designed to help entrepreneurs secure financing of up to $225,000 for their business. A loan designed for key steps of the business life cycle, like creating business opportunities, planning a purchase, or business succession.
Targeted financing for first-time entrepreneurs.
Customized business solutions for young entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 34 years old wanting to start, grow or modernize their business, and in need of startup funds to move their business forward.
Targets social enterprises operating within rural communities, where people can live, work and take advantage of social activities in their area.
This loan helps economic development based on knowledge through the adoption of technology and marketing in a rural area.
For youth between the ages of 13 and 15 years old
0% interest loan
Loans of up to $1,500
― Potential to receive a grant of 20% of the loan
The SEB program is a valuable catalyst in helping entrepreneurs achieve their goal of becoming an entrepreneur by providing financial support and coaching during the planning and start-up periods of their business. The SEB program offers various forms of support to unemployed Atlantic Canadians who are eligible for Employment Insurance and in the initial phase of starting up their business. These benefits can be offered in the form of financial assistance, mentoring or technical advice.
The “Cybersecure NB” program aims to enhance the understanding and importance of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI) through dedicated training and informational sessions. This provisional initiative is designed to fully reimburse small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) for their expenses, up to a limit of $3,000, to bolster their cybersecurity and AI capabilities within their business operations, utilizing local expertise and services.
Business counselling is provided to first time and already established entrepreneurs.
Provides customized training in specific fields like market development, accounting, feasibility studies, funding sources, and business analysis.
Provides help through an external consultant agent in diverse areas of expertise to increase business performance. A financial contribution is required from the client.
Wesley Knight President
Sylvain Thériault Vice-President
Jean-Yves April
Linda Lavoie
Linda Letarte Treasurer
Business Sector Community Sector
Denis McIntyre
Carl Valcourt
Nancy Belliveau-Poirier Secretary
First Nations Ugpi’Ganjig Eel River Bar First Nation
Jacques Caron Vice-President
Retiring Members
Diane Thompson
Gino Mallais
Nancy BelliveauPoirier
Chouinard
Mélanie Lanteigne
Carla McNeish Maltais
Management Team
Michel Guitard Executive Director
Véronique Arseneault
Supervisor Team
Annick Robichaud Hachey
Peggy Savoie-Leclair
Vincent Lagacé
Jacques Duclos
Viviane Levesque
Monica Savoie
Administrative Support and Accounting
Kathleen Campbell
Monique Dion
Myriam Audet
Richard Bourque
Shared Services
André Doiron
Paul Cormier
Ismael Lavallée
Carole Savoie
Suzanne Cormier
Lise Savoie
Linda Leblanc
Alex Jones
Nanie Diotte
Josée Doucet-Thériault
April Belliveau Corriveau
Emily Good
Simon-Pierre Tremblay
Pierre-Luc Savoie
Mélanie Albert
Marilyn LeBlanc
Mayme Lefurgey
Karenne Levesque-Savoie
Crystal Moran
Jolène Eddy
Tasia Caissy
Frédérick Dufour
Mylène Francoeur
Kayla Parker
Reno Michel Haché
Nicole Soucy
Aysleigh Lefurgey
Counselling/Support Services
Rachel Paradis
Séléna Babin
Vanessa Perron
Kathy Lepage
Guylaine Charest
Lyssa Leclerc
Hilary Irving
Myah Barristo
Kaitlin Woods
Danyka LeClair
Jean-François Sonier
Dylan Renouf
Alexandre Leclair
Patrice Valentin Cineus
Nicholas Routhier
Lyne Lagacé-Bouchard
Holly Miller
Maude Levesque
Alexis Dumas- Doyon
Émilie Frenette
Sara Mitchell
Valerie Geraghty
Jessika Paulin
Abigail Lissabou
Abigail Matcha Fotsing
Alain Mallet
Albert-Marie Monthe
Amélie Bernard
Amilicar Polk
Amina Rami
Andrew Parker
Annie Tounsi
Ashley Blanche Sadden
Barth Emou
Bianca Roy
Bouchra Harti
Brenda Mahop Elang
Brett Parker
Cathy Ebelle
Chantal Bernard
Cheikh Badji
Cynthia Arsneault
Daniel Cedrick Akono
Daniel Nganjip Mbiada
Daudet Ndopedro
Elizabeth Lemire
Elliot Parker
Emma Stephanie Kengne
Emmanuelle Boudreau
Eric Thibeault
Esther Adossi
Freud Kamche
Gabrielle Fameni
Michelle Dion
Solange Lepage
Carla di Bella
Heidy Deschenes-Tremblay Moustapha Sow
Hyacinthe Djoko
Ismael Toure
Jean Dougbo
Jennifer Leblanc
Joel Michaud
Julbert Clerveau
Justin Levesque
Juvenal TreAligba
Kayla Servant
Keagan Savoie Webb
Kelly Padonou
Kessa Bourque
Kiefer Savoie
Kurtis Narvie
Linda Fatou
Luc Cormier
Luc Leblanc
Magloire Binene
Malise Zinzindohoue
Marc Perron
Marc Roy
Marie Pier Arseneault Losier
Marie-Noella Nyeheg
Marilie Bujold
Mathieu St-Jean
Meghann Lagacé
Moise Nengue
Mordhi Telmoudi
Mouctar Balde
Marie-Claude Thériault
Céline Savoie
Isabelle Audet-Levesque
Mylaine Thériault
Nadine Laure Nono Kuiteing
Nathan Dube
Nick Veinot
Olivier Diangana
Osee Boum
Pascal Amblasso
Pola Théodora
Raissa Feuze
Renée Levesque Bernard
Richelle Marthe Ngninteden
Robenson Louis
Roxanne Durette
Salif Sangare
Sefode Souare
Shawna Maceachern
Shekinah Diza
Solange Levesque
Stephane Kouakou
Steve Ouellette
Terry Parker
Thamara Remilus
Tyler Sadden
Valérie Coulibaly
Vanessa Leclair
Vanessa Williamson
Vardy Jeune
Wilfred Fozo
Rebecca McKinnon
Mélanie Essiembre
Employment insurance benefits for a period of 50 weeks. Funds available for training.
Applications approved and disbursed
Creation or maintenance of jobs Entrepreneurial Training Fund:
Application submitted
$12,000
In Motion and Momentum are personal development and motivational programs from the Social Development Department delivered by the CBDC.
This program is divided into three different modules:
Module 1: IN MOTION
Module 2: MOMENTUM
Module 3: RECONNECT AND MAINTAIN THE MOMENTUM
“My most important learning in this program is that support is all around me and with it, I can overcome most obstacles. ”
“This program allowed me to see who I was in the past, a strong woman who over come many challenges (bounce back) and allowed me to learn that women was still inside me!”
“I learned that I’m not the only one that need help and that there are other people that are going through the same things as me. That it’s okay to ask for help. That not everyone is bad in this world. I’ve learned to not be so hard on myself and self love is important.”
“Le programme m’a fait réaliser que je ne suis pas un échec total, oui j’ai fait des mauvais choix mais ça s’arrange.”
“Ce que j’ai le plus aimé de ce programme : Le sentiment de faire partie de quelques choses « d’un tout ». D’avoir mis la gêne et mon incertitude de côté, d’être sorti de ma zone de confort, de m’être ouvert aux autres.”
For the year 2024-2025, we delivered: Six modules IN MOTION Three modules MOMENTUM
Twelve sessions RECONNECT AND MAINTAIN THE MOMENTUM
clients
Since 2015, more than have participated in the modules.
Developed by CBDC Restigouche from 20152018, the Hire for Talent campaign aims to raise employer awareness about the valuable contributions individuals with disabilities bring to the workforce.
Expanding from 2019 to 2023, the campaign responded to the growing necessity for workforce diversity. Hiring individuals with disabilities not only enhances workplace culture, morale, and innovation but also strengthens staff retention.
In collaboration with strategic partners, Hire for Talent launched innovative tools, resources, and videos to further engage employers in hiring individuals with disabilities.
Additionally, Hire for Talent conducted a comprehensive national research study, gathering insights from over 800 small and medium-sized businesses and individuals with disabilities. This study aimed to address ongoing challenges, identify best practices, and highlight emerging trends in disability employment across Canada.
In 2023, CBDC Restigouche was awarded a new three-year project, to expand and enhance the Hire for Talent campaign. Through new online tools, videos, and workshops, the project is actively promoting inclusive, equitable, and accessible workplaces. As part of this initiative, we are partnering with the Social Research and Demonstration Corporation (SRDC) to conduct a national research study aimed at deepening our understanding of disability in the workplace.
To date, more than 1,800 employers have participated in the new project to date!
Banking on Inclusion is a national project that aims to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities in Canada’s banking and financial sector.
A study conducted in 2021 revealed that only 9.6% of employees in the financial sector identify as having a disability, compared to a national average of 27%. This project aims to identify barriers to accessible employment in federally regulated banks and improve the representation of people with disabilities.
Banking on Inclusion provides online tools and resources to help professionals in the financial sector hire more inclusively and retain employees with disabilities. These resources support accessibility, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and help strengthen the industry’s commitment to the Canadian Employment Equity Act and to building barrier-free workplaces by 2040.
Delivered by CBDC Restigouche, this national project is funded in part by Employment and Social Development Canada under the Workplace Opportunities: Removing Barriers to Equity program. The project was awarded in 2023 and will run until December 2025.
The Skills in Action portal is an online training portal that offers SMEs (small and medium-size enterprises) and Training service providers an accessible solution for upskilling their labour force.
The Skills in Action portal is:
A complete training solution for managing and delivering self-directed Skills for Success training programs.
A timely and flexible solution available anytime, anywhere
Quick start training programs as soon as the needs are identified
Tailor training to each person’s needs
Train one or a thousand people at the same time
The eight Skills for Success online training programs offered either in French, or in English by the portal are:
Reading
Numeracy
Digital Skills in the Early Childhood Sector
Digital Skills in the Workplace
― Problem-Solving
Adaptability
Communication, one of the Skills for Success
Occupational Health and Safety
Innovation
CBDC Restigouche is also proud to have made the majority of its portal training courses accessible to people with disabilities respecting the WCAG 2.1 AA Web Content Accessibility Standards.
Project Results
8,872
Number of training completed
3,138
Number of participants
Since April 2020, we have been responsible for implementing this innovative program. In August 2024, we were awarded a new 36-month contract, ending in July 2027. This forward-thinking program is designed to help young people aged 15 to 30 overcome barriers, develop essential skills, gain meaningful experience and make a successful transition to the job market.
As part of the project, our team will work one-on-one with young people to help them develop skills, a strong work ethic and build confidence, making them competitive in today’s job market. The program offers support, a flexible approach and tailored, personalized services.
Support measures include mentoring, counseling and paid work experience. We work with local businesses and organizations to provide 12-week paid work placements for 60 young people.
We also offer 4-week workshops where young people are paid for their participation. We focus on improving skills through specific training in workplace safety, personal development, mental health and work ethics.
To ensure success, the participants have access to the following services:
Individual intervention
4-week modules
12-week paid work placement
Counselling
Since the beginning of the program in 2024:
Continuous learning
Ongoing support
Job retention with participant and employer
22 participants were provided a service and we helped 14 participants enter the job market.
A total of 5 participants completed the four-week session.
9 participants obtained a certification or training.
Since April 2020, we’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with over 65 Restigouche businesses and organizations, strengthening our network and impact in the region.
Delivered by CBDC Restigouche through funding from Women and Gender Equality Canada under the Women’s Program (WP), this 33-month regional bilingual project will help advance the economic security and prosperity of women and gender-diverse people through meaningful systemic change, specifically within workplaces in the Restigouche region.
A group of employers will be established and provided with concrete interactive tools and resources to integrate tangible policies and practices that promote gender equity and inclusion in the workplace. The tools and resources will then be disseminated to other SMEs in the Restigouche region after the review and evaluation process. An external evaluator will assess and measure the impact of the project.
Project Objective
To remove systemic barriers for women and gender diverse people in SME workplaces in Restigouche. This work towards the broader objective of achieving economic prosperity and inclusion of all genders in the Restigouche region.
This research project aims to produce localized, context-specific knowledge on how to strengthen regional services offered to Mi’gmaq women, Two Spirit, non-binary, and gender-diverse people who are accessing services related to gender-based violence (GBV) in Mi’gma’gi (the Restigouche region).
This research project will work to better understand barriers and gaps in care in settler services and provide recommendations for future work, collaboration and research in the region.
The findings will be used to improve our work at RFS and impact other GBV service providers in the area.
This work will be directed by a diverse group of community representatives, who will form an Advisory Circle that includes local Indigenous communities, traditional Elders, and community partners. Our academic partnersare the Muriel McQueen Centre for Family Violence Research and the Department of Sociology at the University of New Brunswick.
We are committed to working in accordance with the OCAP® principles relating to the collection, protection, use and sharing of First Nations data and information. Our work is based on respect for Aboriginal culture and recognition of the systemic and multi-generational harms of colonization and white settler culture, including the harms caused by research.
research@sfr-rfs.ca
Grande mobilisation d’inclusion sociale des aîné.e.s des CLOSM rurales de l’Atlantique
Since September 2019, CBDC Restigouche has implemented a collective impact initiative by bringing together several sectors to increase the social inclusion of francophone and Acadian seniors living in rural areas of Atlantic Canada. The initiative is funded by Employment and Social Development Canada by the New Horizons for Seniors Program. In February 2025, a new five-year agreement was signed.
The following 4 provincial seniors’ organizations are working directly on the ‘’Impact Aîné.s’’ project as Provincial Coordinators:
Association francophone des aînés du NouveauBrunswick (AFANB)
Association des Francophones de l’âge d’or de l’Île du Prince Édouard
Regroupement des aînés de la Nouvelle-Écosse (RANÉ)
Réseau Aîné francophone de Terre-Neuve-etLabrador (RAFTNL)
The CBDC Restigouche funds 14 social inclusion initiatives that benefit francophone seniors across Atlantic Canada.
These 4 priorities are our key component for these initiatives:
Increase the digital skills of seniors
― Increase social inclusion by improving the situation of the senior population
Increase access to services in French
― Increase social inclusion of seniors by having a more positive image of aging
$1,460,000 has been given directly to organizations across the Atlanic to increase the social inclusion of francophone seniors living in rural areas.
This money has allowed u to offer services to more that 10,788 seniors. 721 volunteers with 3,127 volunteer hours . 218 employees contributed to increase the social inclusion of seniors.
CBDC Restigouche, through the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP), has launched the Age Well at Home Project, targeting French-speaking seniors across the four Atlantic provinces. This project started in June 2023 and will continue until December 2025.
Expand services to as many regions as possible across the four Atlantic provinces to help seniors age well at home.
Strengthen partnerships and collaboration among community organizations, volunteers, and local services.
Promote existing services to French-speaking seniors in Atlantic Canada, enabling them to remain safely and with dignity in their homes.
Results
Since the launch of the project:
Approximately 2,200 services have been provided to about 102 seniors (weekly visits, meal deliveries, personalized and social support services).
22 volunteers
Help and encourage people from Chaleur and Restigouche regions ready for employment to actively and efficiently conduct job searches.
Work with clients with needs and barriers to accessing the labour market.
Increase autonomy by emphasizing close monitoring to ensure job retention.
One-on-one sessions on different job search techniques
Information for clients on effective job search methods
Job search tool preparation
Promote knowledge and use of new technologies and social media available for job search
Provide information on traditional job search techniques
Interview preparation
Importance of hidden job market and networking
Approaching employers
At Restigouche Family Services, one of our goals is to foster the personal growth, well-being and fulfilment of all members of our community.
Our services are wide-ranging and carefully designed to respond to various situations. Each service offers a safe environment, professional guidance and attentive listening. Our approach aims to enhance your quality of life, both personally and professionally. We work closely with you to understand your specific needs and to help you move towards better mental health and overall well-being.
Restigouche Family Services offers a series of specialized courses and workshops, both face-to-face and virtual, tailored to the needs of communities, businesses, schools and colleges. Facilitated by specialists, these workshops address current and essential themes related to inclusion, diversity and resilience.
Our Mission
Provide community members with inclusive services that promote their health and well-being.
Our Vision
Enhance resilience within the community.
Our therapy services are designed to improve the psychological well-being of individuals and to strengthen the functioning of families within the community.
Our team is made up of psychologists, social workers and other specialized therapists. We are here to support and guide you by offering a full range of counselling and therapy services for individuals, couples and families. Our commitment is to provide the community members with comprehensive and dedicated support in all aspects of their lives.
If you have concerns that you would like to discuss in confidence, an individual therapy session with a counselor provides a safe and secure space to do so.
Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, family or relationship issues, these sessions are tailored to your specific needs.
Our goal is to help adolescents navigate the challenges of life. Through compassionate and professional support, we help them to achieve their goals and to build a promising and fulfilling future.
Our team of experienced professionals is mindful of the unique challenges facing teenagers in our fastchanging world. We offer a safe and caring environment in which young people can freely explore their thoughts and emotions without fear of being judged.
We are convinced that each and every child deserves the opportunity to lead a happy and fulfilling life. Our team of professionals is trained in a variety of therapy techniques and is determined to help children overcome obstacles getting in their way so they can realize their full potential. Whether your child is experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma or any other issues, we are here to offer the support and guidance they need to achieve personal fulfillment.
Couples therapy is a therapy approach designed to improve loving relationships between partners and to resolve interpersonal conflicts. This process is undertaken by partners wishing to overcome life’s shared difficulties in an impartial environment. During the session, your therapist will listen to your respective points of view and help you to identify and clarify your issues. He or she will help you to understand each other better and to communicate more effectively.
We all need someone to count on. Our family therapy services offer a safe and caring environment for individuals and families wishing to deal with challenges and to find concrete solutions.
Whether you are facing family conflicts, going through a difficult transition or simply need to talk, RFS is here to help. Since everyone deserves to have a healthy and happy family life, we undertake to help families achieve this goal.
Group therapy is a valuable option that brings together individuals who share similar concerns in a confidential and safe setting. Overseen by qualified professionals, this approach offers a space that is well-suited to discussion, mutual understanding and collective guidance towards well-being. Participants have an opportunity to explore and share their experiences and viewpoints within a community of caring peers. Group members stand to benefit from a broad array of perspectives, strategies and solutions while strengthening their social and emotional skills. These interactions favour the development of relationship and emotional skills. They also encourage the sharing of similar stories and the creation of meaningful links while contributing to participants’ overall well-being.
The science of psychology applied to the workplace
The workplace greatly influences employees’ mental health and well-being, hence the importance of good management. With expertise in applied workplace psychology, the industrial and organizational psychology (I&O) consultant offers support to companies and other organizations. This support is specifically focused on developing leadership and talent and on the strategic management of individuals and groups so their goals are aligned with the expected results.
What is industrial and organizational psychology (I/O)?
I/O psychology applies the science of psychology to the workplace.
What is an I/O psychology consultant’s job?
An I&O psychology consultant uses psychological fundamentals to improve the well-being and performance of individuals, teams and organizations. Using different information gathering methodologies such as psychometric assessments, interviews, surveys, discussion groups and field observations, the consultant may make an organizational diagnosis and propose appropriate solutions aligned with the client’s needs.
What are the benefits of an I&O psychology consultant for your organization?
Gain insight into your workforce and the impact on your organizational performance
Offer an objective external viewpoint
Provide expertise and resources not always available within your organization
Consulting service based on the science of psychology
Evidence-based solutions
What types of organizations rely on these services?
In general, governments, businesses, entrepreneurs, non-profit organizations and organizations dealing with unions rely on these services.
Restigouche Family Services is aware that employees must sometimes overcome personal or family difficulties that can impact their productivity and well-being in the workplace.
Restigouche Family Services often works with employers and union representatives to help them conduct assessments, interventions and develop resources on effective treatments.
At Restigouche Family Services, we provide a safe and inclusive space to support individuals from diverse backgrounds in matters of sexual and gender diversity. Our service are available to individuals, groups, and organizations looking to better understand and support LGBTQIA2S+ identities.
Our Services:
Individual Therapy: Personalized support for individuals questioning their identity, transitioning, or facing challenges related to gender identity, sexual orientation, or supporting a loved one through these experiences.
Group Therapy: Safe spaces for support and sharing for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals and their loved ones.
Education and Training: Awareness and workshops tailored for businesses, organizations, schools, and community institutions to promote inclusion, destigmatization, and a better understanding of sexual and gender diversity issues.
Development of New Services: We are actively working to expand our offerings to better meet the specific needs of the communities we serve.
Our specialized therapist holds a postgraduate degree in counselling and a major in gender studies at the postsecondary level, ensuring an approach based on best practices and a deep understanding of current issues. Please note that our therapy services are covered by most insurance plans.
A Snoezelen® multi-sensory environment (MSE) includes a specialized selection of sensory equipment and materials that can help clients to adapt their responses to sensory stimuli and to achieve their educational and therapy goals.
Each Snoezelen MSE is designed to meet the needs of specific populations based on age and various capacities. The use of visual elements, sounds, textures, smells and movements provides a sensory input that can be modified to meet individual needs.
Child Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) is a humanistic form of counselling for children ranging from age 2-10.
— CCPT is an Early Intervention Therapy.
Emotions are an abstract concept. Adults can make sense of these emotions and navigate through therapy using words and emotional intelligence. Children’s development shows that children develop the abstract process around the age of 12. With that in mind, CCPT uses a playroom and many toys to process emotions.
In the playroom, we follow the child’s lead, and the therapist reflects and narrates the emotions presented by the child.
The therapy aims at the child’s inner growth and development.
Sacred Bundles Healing and Counselling Inc. offers a sanctuary for healing, growth, and cultural connection. Our services are designed to meet the unique needs of First Nations individuals, integrating traditional knowledge and modern therapeutic practices.
Our offerings include:
One-on-One Culturally Sensitive Counselling: Personalized counselling sessions that respect and honor your cultural heritage.
― Youth Programming: Engaging and supportive programs designed to empower and guide our youth.
Land-Based Healing: Healing experiences that connect you with the land, fostering a deep sense of belonging and restoration.
Healing Circles: Group sessions that create a safe and supportive community for shared healing journeys.
Prevention Programming: Initiatives aimed at preventing issues before they arise, promoting overall well-being.
Sacred Bundles counselling, believe in the strength and wisdom of our ancestors. Our approach is holistic, addressing the mind, body, and spirit. We are committed to helping you build and enrich the sacred bundles you carry within, empowering you to live a balanced and fulfilling life.
Discover a path to healing, empowerment, and connection with the tools and resources available to you. Together, we’ll help you add to the sacred bundles you carry within.
Holly Miller - MACP / LCT-C
A proud Mi’gmaq Licensed Counselling Therapist-Candidate from Ugpi’ganjig, she leads Sacred Bundles with vision, heart, and a deep connection to community healing.
Sara Mitchell - MSW, RSW
A Clinical Social Worker from Listuguj who specializes in trauma-informed care for Indigenous youth and families. Her work creates safe spaces for stories to be heard and healing to unfold.
Michael Martin - Advisory Board Member
A Knowledge Keeper and addictions counsellor. Through Mi’gmaw teachings, Michael offers mentorship that centers identity, culture, and community strength.
Paige Isaac - Advisory Board Member
A Mi’gmaq Cultural Coordinator, specializing in language, land-based education, and traditional practices. With Paige, teachings come alive.
Patricia Miller - Advisory Board Member
Bringing a powerful voice to education and cultural revitalization. She helps bridge the gap between academic systems and traditional knowledge.
Rosalie Labillois - Advisory Board Member
A Mi’gmaw cultural advocate and community leader, co-chairs the Assembly of First Nations Youth Council, where she champions the rights and well-being of Indigenous youth, with a focus on mental health and child welfare.
Speech therapy services at Restigouche Family Services encompass a range of interventions aimed at improving communication and speech-related skills in school-age and preschool-age individuals. These services are provided by speech-language pathologists, professionals trained and specialized in screening, assessment, and treatment.
Speech therapy can benefit individuals with various conditions such as developmental delays, speech and language disorders, cognitive-communication disorders, and challenges related to written language. Therapy sessions typically involve assessment, goal-setting, targeted interventions, and progress monitoring tailored to individual needs. Techniques may include exercises to improve articulation, language comprehension, and oral motor skills. Speech therapy plays a crucial role in helping individuals overcome communication barriers, enhance social interactions, and reach their full potential in their environment.
Reading rehabilitation helps children with severe difficulties, such as dyslexia. It is based on strategies that help the child to recognize and decode words.
After an assessment, the child follows a personalized program: 12 60-minute sessions over 6 weeks. The primary goal is to develop a high level of automaticity in written word recognition. This approach gives the child concrete tools for reading and writing.
A diagnostic assessment, carried out by a psychologist, is an in-depth process that seeks to understand and evaluate an individual’s psychological, emotional, cognitive and behavioural aspects.
During this process, the psychologist uses various tools and techniques to gather detailed information on how the individual functions, in addition to his or her personal and family background and life experiences. The goal is to provide an indepth understanding of the individual, taking into account their personal situation and unique circumstances.
These assessments include clinical interviews, standardized questionnaires, psychometric testing and direct observations. The main objective is to determine whether psychological, emotional or cognitive disorders are present prior to making an accurate diagnosis. These assessments also play a key role in the therapy planning process by providing appropriate recommendations and drawing up a personalized treatment plan.
Throughout the process, confidentiality and respect are essential as they ensure a safe environment in which the patient can share their lived experience with the psychologist in complete confidence.
Our five specialized residences are designed to offer specialized services to children/adults with specific developmental, therapy, physical or emotional needs. Our goals are to help them to deal with day-to-day life situations, boost their autonomy and realize their full potential. These placements are arranged by the Department of Social Development.
We have two adult residences and three residences for children/teenagers.
Respite House is a service offered to families with special needs children, as well as host families. As the name suggests, the goal is to provide respite to families and to work closely with them for the children’s well-being. Family respite services are available; permanent placements are not provided.
In May 2020, we started offering respite house services seven days a week to provide a greater service to families in need. Since opening full-time, we have welcomed children every day.
This group home offers services to children aged 6 to 18. The main goal is to provide a safe and protective therapy setting fostering their development and their individual identities while meeting their specific educational, social, behavioural, developmental, medical and emotional needs.
The Centre’s mission is to boost residents’ autonomy and to engage them in a life path in which they can foster their well-being and develop their full potential. We help children and their families to take responsibility and to join forces to accept, limit or eliminate certain conditions or behaviours that may have undermined an enjoyable family life.
The Centre also offers a transition and emergency bed service, as well as an external stakeholder services program focused on socialization and the development of parenting skills.
The Center is authorized by the New Brunswick Department of Social Development and its territory covers all of the Restigouche area, from Belledune to Saint-Quentin.
The Stabilization Centre is a four-bed open facility for the northern regions of New Brunswick, operating 24 hours a day. It is intended for children and youth aged 12 to 18. Youth are admitted for a maximum period of ten weeks, although extensions may be considered if clinically justified and in the best interest of the youth, particularly during transitional periods. In addition to the stabilization beds, the Centre also includes a secure, fully equipped two-bed safe and supportive care apartment on-site. This apartment supports youth transitioning toward greater independence in a supervised yet flexible environment.
Stabilization services aim to defuse crisis situations while helping families and caregivers better understand the underlying factors contributing to behaviours and to develop sustainable intervention strategies. Clinical interventions focus on conflict resolution, the management of complex trauma, and planning for a safe return to the community setting.
Stabilization services work in collaboration with regional clinical teams through an ISD lens, and focus on the following areas:
― Complex trauma response and intervention
Mental Health Services
Neurodevelopmental
Conflict resolution
Community treatment planning
Accommodation capacity: 4 beds, with flexibility based on clinical needs, and a fully equipped secure 2-bed apartment (no age limit), for a total of 6 beds.
The Parenting/Social Skills Program (PSSP) includes a variety of services designed to promote child development while strengthening family involvement and well-being.
The lead caseworker is responsible for helping to improve family functioning and for supporting the family while drawing up and implementing the childcare plan.
The team of experienced caseworkers oversees cases involving children in care, independent living, special needs children and child protection, referred by New Brunswick’s Department of Social Development.
The services offered are:
The range of services includes:Supervised visits and spot checks (child protection)
Program for adults
Independent living program (guardianship)
— Social abilities/social activities
program
Parental abilities program
Transportation
Reports and in-court testimony
Other
Note :
The above provides a brief overview of the caseworkers’ multiple responsibilities and tasks.The program is offered throughout the Restigouche region, from Belledune to Saint-Quentin, not only for Department of Social Development clients, but also for all families seeking services.
This program involves the acquisition of skills enabling young participants to achieve a higher level of autonomy so they can play an active role in day-to-day life while maintaining positive relationships with those around them.The learning process is divided into 16 modules:
The learning process is divided into 16 modules:
1. Budgeting
2. Diet and nutrition
3. Healthy lifestyle
4. Clothing
5. Housework
6. Interpersonal relationships
7. Sexuality
8. Addiction (drugs/alcohol/gambling)
9. Mental health
10. Academic
11. Career exploration
12. Activity
13. Dwelling
14. Safety measures
15. Prenatal care
16. Child development
All of these components are adapted to the reality of each young participant. They are subject to constant assessment of needs and achievements so that the necessary interventions are directed and implemented effectively.
Financial Partners
ACOA
Employment and Social Development
Canada
Social Development
New Brunswick Association of CBDC
CBDC Kent
CBDC Madawaska
CBDC Westmoreland Albert
CBDC Chaleur
CBDC Péninsule Acadienne
CBDC Victoria MadawaskaSud
CBDC Northumberland
CBDC Humber
CBDC Central
CBDC Eastern
CBDC Cabot
CBDC Labrador
CBDC Burin Peninsula
CBDC Yarmouth
CBDC Digby-Clare
CBDC Guysborough County
CBDC Shelburne
SADC and CAE Network
CAE Haute-Montérégie
CAE Drummond
SADC Rocher-Percé
SADC Gaspé
SADC Pontiac
SADC Abitibi-Ouest
WorkingNB
Women and Gender Equality Canada
Atlantic Association of CBDC
New Horizons for Seniors Program
CBDC Annapolis Ventures Ltd
CBDC InRich
CBDC Northside Victoria
CBDC Hants-Kings (added at Conf.)
CBDC Central (PEI)
CBDC Eastern PEI
CBDC Central Newfoundland
CBDC Trinity Conception
CBDC NOBL
Restigouche Multicultural Association
Restigouche Regional Service Commission
Listiguj Mi’gmaq Government
Ugpi’ganjig Eel River Bar First Nations
Ugpi’ganjig Child and Family Service
Women in Business NB
Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation
Opportunities NB
Inspire Action Center
National Bank
UNI
Meridian Credit Union
Laurentian Bank
EQ Bank
Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)
TD Bank
Scotia Bank
Open Door Group
Gateway Association
Campbellton Regionald Chamber of Commerce
Restigouche Service Commission
Firme comptable Allen, Paquet & Arseneau
SADC Athabaska-Érable
SADC Fjord
SADC Baie-de-Chaleur
SADC Lotbiniére
SADC Lac Mégantic
SADC Haute-Gaspésie
SADC des Sources
SADC Lac-St-Jean Ouest
SADC Rouyn-Noranda
SADC Charlevoix
SADC du Kamouraska
SADC Lotbinière
SADC Papineau-Collines
SADC Rivière-du-Loup
SADC Témiscouata
Le SAE Centre-du-Québec, QC
Chambre de commerce et d’industrie Baie-desChaleurs
CF Highwood
CF Boundary
Surrey Board of Trade BC
CF Westman
CF Parkland
CF Prince Albert & District
CF Sagehill
CF Newsask
CF Northwest
CF Wild Rose
Nottawasaga Futures
LAMBAC
ACC Futures
Surrey Board of Trade BC
Valley CFDC
Garderie Forêt des Découvertes
Canadian National Railway (CN)
Discover Ability Network/ Ontario Chamber of Commerce
CPHR Nova Scotia
Accessible Employers
Milk Jar Candle Co.
Surrey Board of Trade Open Door Group
Fédération des francophones de TNL
Réseau de santé en français TNL
Association francophone de l’âge d’or de l’IPE
Réseau de santé en français de l’IPE
Réseau de la santé de la NÉ
Regroupement des aînés de la NÉ
Centre d’études du vieillissement de l’Université de Moncton
Association francophone des aînés du NB
Conseil scolairecommunautaire Évangéline (CSCÉ)
RDÉE Î-P-É
Canadian Mental Health Association of NB (CMHANB)
Association francophone des aînés du N.-B. (AFANB)
Municipalité amis des aînés MADA/ CADA
Communautés loisir Nouveau- Brunswick
Conseil pour le développement de l’alphabétisme et des compétences des adultes du Nouveau-Brunswick (CODAC)
Mouvement Acadien des Communautés en Santé du Nouveau-Brunswick inc (MACS-NB)
Société Santé et Mieuxêtre en français du N.-B. (SSMEFNB)
Équipe d’alphabétisation –Nouvelle-Écosse
Fédération culturelle acadienne de la NouvelleÉcosse (FéCANE)
Regroupement des aînés de la Nouvelle- Écosse (RANÉ)
Réseau Santé - NouvelleÉcosse (RSNÉ)
Réseau Aînés de TerreNeuve-et-Labrador (RAFTNL)
Association régionale de la côte Ouest et ses membres (ARCO)
Alter Acadie NB
Maison Notre Dame House Inc.
Listuguj Haven House
Muriel McQueen Centre for Family Violence Research and the Department of Sociology at the University of New Brunswick
WorkSafeNB
The Flying Canoe Women’s’ Equality Branch
Native Para-Judicial Services of Quebec (NPJSQ)