My Internship Experience with Distress and Crisis Ontario
by Regan Roberts – Student Intern
During my internship with Distress and Crisis Ontario (DCO), I had the opportunity to engage in meaningful work that strengthened my professional competencies, personal self-awareness, and understanding of the non-profit sector in mental health. This experience introduced me to the inner workings of a non-profit organization with a provincial umbrella that supports local helplines and crisis services, all while advocating for systemic change and the reduction of stigma around mental health and addiction. My role involved participating in a variety of projects, including creating educational blogs and infographics, assisting with the Annual General Meeting (AGM), and developing learning forums for members, staff and volunteers. Each of these tasks helped me apply classroom knowledge to real-world settings while deepening my appreciation for the importance of community-based support systems.
Throughout this internship, I explored how DCO’s mission and values align with the principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI). I learned to apply trauma-informed and person-centred approaches when developing learning materials for members and the public, ensuring that content remained respectful, inclusive, and accessible. I also gained insights into how DCO engages with marginalized communities, providing a platform for voices that are often underrepresented.
Looking back on the personal goals I set for this placement, I have developed growth in all areas—ranging from intentional communication and cultural humility to self-reflection, adaptability, and collaboration—while also highlighting my broader understanding of the mental health sector and the systemic challenges it seeks to address.
Internship Personal Goal 1: Understanding DCO and Its Role in the Sector
A primary focus of my internship was gaining a thorough understanding of DCO’s internal structure, mission, and values. DCO operates as a provincial umbrella organization supporting a network of member agencies that provide frontline crisis and mental health services. I learned how its centralized resources, training programs, and advocacy initiatives empower local helplines and community organizations to offer consistent, high-quality support.
Through my work on blogs, learning forums, and digital awareness, I examined how DCO integrates justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) principles into its operations. For instance, when creating content for public awareness and education, I was encouraged to use language that is inclusive, culturally sensitive, and accessible. I saw firsthand how DCO intentionally amplifies the voices of marginalized groups, including individuals living with mental illness, substance use challenges, or socio-economic barriers. These observations made me critically reflect on the systemic inequalities that shape mental health outcomes and the role organizations like DCO play in dismantling stigma and promoting understanding and equity.
Furthermore, I explored how DCO interacts with diverse communities across Ontario. Through my own research, I learned about the unique challenges faced by rural and Indigenous populations, as well as the barriers they face when accessing mental health support. This understanding informed the tone and content of my projects, ensuring that there was an acknowledgment of the diverse lived experiences of individuals seeking crisis and mental health support. DCO’s emphasis on promoting systemic change—through training, advocacy, and public education—showed me how a provincial organization can influence both policy and community perspectives on mental health.
Internship Personal Goal 2: Intentional Communication, Cultural Humility, and Adaptability
Throughout my internship, I developed intentional communication strategies designed to reflect trauma-informed and person-centred approaches. When writing educational blogs, such as those focused on the opioid crisis or brain injury awareness, I took care to use empathetic, non-judgmental language that would resonate with diverse audiences. I aimed to validate the emotions and challenges faced by those directly affected by these issues while educating the public in a respectful and accessible way. This approach taught me the power of storytelling and language as tools for advocacy and community education.
Cultural humility became another central focus of my learning. As I researched various topics, I was exposed to a wide range of lived experiences and perspectives, including those of marginalized communities often underrepresented in mainstream discourse. I reflected on my own biases and assumptions, recognizing that true inclusion requires ongoing learning and a willingness to listen. For example, when developing resources around mental health, I made a conscious effort to include content that acknowledged systemic barriers such as racism, poverty, and colonialism, and how these factors intersect with mental health and addiction.
In addition to improving my communication skills, I strengthened my adaptability and ability to respond to various professional needs. Each project presented unique challenges and required me to adopt innovative, solutions-focused thinking. I became proficient in navigating new tools, managing shifting priorities, and balancing creative and strategic elements to achieve organizational objectives. This flexibility was particularly evident when working on learning forums, where I had to combine technical skills and educational strategies to produce engaging digital content.
Internship Personal Goal 3: Self-Reflection, Accountability, and Trauma-Informed Practice
My internship with DCO provided ample opportunities to critically reflect on my own identity, biases, and the power dynamics that shape community work. Through my projects, I recognized the importance of acknowledging my positionality and ensuring that my work uplifted the voices of those with lived experience. I incorporated trauma-informed principles by creating content that was both respectful and mindful of the potential for triggering topics, such as discussions around overdose or suicide. This reflection not only improved the quality of my work but also reinforced my commitment to empathy and inclusivity.
A significant lesson I learned during this time was the importance of sustainable work habits and self-awareness. Engaging with emotionally heavy topics could at times feel overwhelming, and I learned to set healthy boundaries and practice self-care to prevent burnout. Simple strategies such as taking breaks, practicing mindfulness, and seeking support when needed, enabled me to maintain my emotional well-being while continuing to deliver high-quality work. This balance between professional responsibilities and personal care is something I will carry with me throughout my career in the social and community services sector.
Additionally, I refined my professional habits in terms of accountability and reflection. I consistently sought feedback from my supervisor, incorporating her insights into my work to improve clarity, tone, and impact. Regular check-ins and collaborative brainstorming sessions provided opportunities for learning and growth while helping me refine my writing and project management skills. I learned that collaboration, active listening, and adaptability are essential to creating meaningful and impactful work.
Internship General Goal: Understanding the Non-Profit Mental Health Sector
My internship provided me with a broad perspective on how the non-profit mental health sector operates, particularly within the context of a provincial organization like DCO. I was exposed to the complexities of marketing strategies, membership engagement, and community awareness campaigns. By participating in projects that required both creative and analytical skills, I developed a deeper appreciation for the behind-the-scenes efforts that drive systemic change. For example, observing the Annual General Meeting (AGM) provided me with insight into how DCO communicates its progress and plans to its members.
Another area of growth was learning how DCO builds and sustains relationships with its member organizations and external partners. Through recognition initiatives for helpline specialists, I realized the importance of acknowledging the efforts of those working on the front lines of mental health and crisis support. These initiatives not only boost morale but also strengthen the collective impact of the sector.
Through my various responsibilities, I developed a holistic understanding of how different components—marketing, outreach, community development, and advocacy—intersect to create a comprehensive support network. This understanding has not only expanded my knowledge of the non-profit mental health sector but also helped me clarify my career goals, reinforcing my passion for working in roles that prioritize equity, mental health awareness, and systemic change.
Conclusion: Integrating Learning and Looking Forward
Reflecting on my time at DCO, I am proud of the growth I have achieved across all my personal and general goals. I have developed stronger communication skills rooted in empathy, cultural humility, and trauma-informed practices. I have strengthened my ability to adapt to diverse professional tasks, demonstrating flexibility and innovative problem-solving. Most importantly, I have learned the value of continuous reflection, accountability, and self-awareness—skills that are crucial not only for personal development but also for practical community work.
This internship has equipped me with a deeper understanding of the structural and systemic factors that influence mental health, as well as the strategies that organizations like DCO use to address these challenges. I leave this experience with greater confidence in my ability to make meaningful contributions to the social and community services field. Moving forward, I will continue to apply the lessons I learned at DCO, remaining committed to advocacy, equity, and creating compassionate, inclusive spaces for those in need.
A note from DCO:
From the whole team here at Distress and Crisis Ontario, we would like to thank Regan for their contributions made during this internship. It is always a pleasure to work alongside individuals who bring a passion for the work we do. You can view some of Regan’s work here, here, and here. You can also listen to Regan on DCO Discourse… podcast here. If you are a student interested in completing an internship or placement with DCO, please do not hesitate to email us at info@dcontario.org.