For 24/7 crisis support, call Here 24/7 at (844) 437-3247

Beyond the Bio: Elisa Brewer-Singh

Welcome to Beyond the Bio, the series where we get to know our WRSPC staff a little better. Here are the answers to our 5 Beyond the Bio questions from WRSPC Executive Director Elisa Brewer-Singh.

Q1: Which Aspect of your work gives you the greatest sense of purpose or meaning?

I find the most meaning while connecting in with our community!  Whether it’s at an event, a training, a third-party fundraiser or at our office, the opportunity to meet and engage with so many from our community is truly inspiring and humbling.  I am also so thankful for each and every person who shares their story of resiliency and hope because we can learn so much when we genuinely listen.  I’m often asked how I manage some of the difficult aspects of my job and it’s because of this community and my belief in hope!

Q2: What is one thing you are most looking forward to re-engaging in once physical distancing restrictions begin to lift?

Hugs! I have certainly missed the opportunity to share and receive comfort and support through a physical hug.  This time has reinforced how social I am by nature and I am looking forward to the time when I can connect with family and friends in-person again (and hopefully not take for granted these opportunities moving forward).

Also, going out for sushi!  My boys and I have been talking about how this might be our number 1 wish list item.

Q3: Name one place, community, or situation where you feel a sense of belonging or feel most at home?

Aside from my own home, one place that I have a wonderful sense of belonging and community with is my scrapbooking ladies group.  I am thankful for the opportunity to share our stories, laugh and grow with each of these ladies and for their continued support of my journey through life.

Q4: What are some of you go-to self-care routines or stress-reducing habits that you’ve been utilizing during this pandemic?

Because I am such a social person, a large part of my self-care routine has been connecting in virtually with family and friends; I Facetime my parents pretty much daily!

I have also used this opportunity to go for slower walks with my husband, boys and dog; it’s amazing to see all the things that my boys discover out in our community and nature when the pace is slow enough to look around!

Finally, I absolutely love music and it’s ability to speak to a wide range of emotions I might be feeling at any given time.  I will say that there have been many dance parties recently in our kitchen while cooking or baking!

Q5: If you decided to change careers and leave the mental health world, what would you do instead?

I would open a little flower shop complete with large windows. I love dreaming of the endless possibilities to explore creativity, nature and beauty while hopefully bringing a smile to others.

NEED HELP?

Please note, the WRSPC does not provide counselling or crisis support.

For access to mental health, addictions, and crisis services in the Waterloo Region call Here 24/7 at (844) 437-3247.

In case of an immediate emergency, call 911.

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