Whitby, Ontario
Dr. Geneviève Dale is a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience working with military personnel. She has been a pivotal part of the Military Veterans Wellness Program since 2019. Dr. Dale has contributed her medical advice and expertise to the creation of the groundbreaking program. Her dedication has resulted in over 200 Veterans in crisis connecting with essential support services, significantly enhancing the well-being of Canadian military Veterans.
The Military Veterans Wellness Program (MVWP) represents a pioneering initiative in national community policing designated to enhance Canadian military Veterans’ welfare. At its core, the MVWP equips Canadian law enforcement personnel with the necessary training and resources to better understand and assist Veterans, fulfilling a vital duty to protect those who have protected us. Dr. Dale has participated in countless meetings, offering critical input on program development and design.
Dr. Dale’s significant contribution to the program’s training component is particularly noteworthy. She authored several portions of the training course, focusing on mental health, de-escalation techniques and a deep understanding of military culture. Under her guidance, this program has bridged the gap between law enforcement and military Veterans, ensuring that officers are better equipped to understand and assist Veterans facing a crisis.
Through her comprehensive approach, she has conveyed complex psychological principles in an accessible manner, enabling officers to recognize the signs of mental health crises and PTSD in Veterans. More importantly, her work provides actionable strategies that officers can employ in real-world situations to deescalate potentially volatile encounters effectively and compassionately. This training has been pivotal in equipping officers with the skills necessary to support Veterans effectively, facilitating over 12,000 completions from more than 55 agencies across Canada and garnering international attention for its innovative approach.
Dr. Dale has also been a strong advocate and promoter of the MVWP, communicating the program’s objectives and achievements to elected officials at the provincial and federal levels, as well as to national and international law enforcement organizations including the National Investigation Services in the United Kingdom and to the Canadian Special Operations Regiment.
Dr. Dale has generously given her time, never seeking any form of compensation or recognition for her efforts. Her motivation has stemmed from a deep-seated empathy and desire to contribute meaningfully to the cause, focusing solely on improving the well-being of Veterans who have served their country. Her work has had a profound and lasting impact on the Veteran community and serves as a beacon of hope and support for many.