Prairie Mountain Region
Included in the PMRH are the cities of Brandon and Dauphin, and the towns of Neepawa, Swan River, Russell, Minnedosa, Virden, Carberry, Souris, Boissevain, Roblin, Killarney, Gladstone, Hamiota, and Melita.
Our Peer Support Outreach team, located in Brandon, includes Lora Hay, Alycia Canada, Bethany Leslie, and Adynn Praznik. Our team can provide one-on-one peer support, facilitate peer support groups, or give presentations in workplaces, non-profit groups or in schools about mood disorders.
If you are struggling with your mental health, looking for resources, or would like to book a presentation or one-on-one peer support session, please email adassist@moodmb.ca.
Help/Support/Contact
Alycia Canada is the Administration Assistant at the Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba in the Prairie Mountain region. A graduate of the Business Administration program at Assiniboine College, she is currently completing her degree in Business Administration at Brandon University.
Outside of her professional and academic endeavors, Alycia enjoys spending time at the hockey rink, where she supports her three children in their activities. If she isn’t at the rink, she is watching football or hockey at home. Her passion for mental health advocacy is a driving force in her life, guiding her efforts both in her career and personal pursuits to create positive change and provide meaningful support.
Lora Hay, Regional Outreach Manager, Prairie Mountain. Starting her professional career as an educational assistant while raising her children, she recognized her passion for helping others and pursued education in counseling. Later she worked as program manager for a non-profit organization and moved into a more career development focus. She is a graduate of Assiniboine Community College’s Applied Counselling program and holds a Registered Professional Recruiter designation, which she used both skill sets while working at a professional recruiter with the Westman based company West-Can HR. With a deep-rooted passion for supporting individuals on their journey toward mental wellness.
Mental wellness and assisting individuals were always at the forefront of her mind, calling her back. Her involvement with SPIN as Treasurer demonstrates her dedication to suicide prevention and mental health advocacy at a community level. Now, as the Regional Outreach Manager at the Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba, Lora aims to further her impact by educating and supporting her community in navigating mental health challenges.
When she is not working with the terrific team at Mood Disorder and volunteering her time to SPIN, Lora enjoys spending time with her growing family including her spoiled dog, Winnie. She also enjoys the outdoors, photography, fishing and camping with her husband of 30 years.
Bethany Leslie is an Outreach Coordinator at the Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba in the Prairie Mountain Region. She is finishing her Bachelor of Arts degree at Brandon University, double majoring in Psychology and Religion with a research interest in the effects of awe on mental health. Naturally compassionate, inclined towards self-development, and inspired by her own experience with mental illness, Bethany is passionate about guiding others through their own dark times. As a 300-hour registered yoga instructor and artist, she is driven to serve her community by combining her skills with the programs that MDAM offers. In her spare time, she enjoys engaging in her art practice, hanging out with her friends and beloved cats, and thrifting.
Adynn Praznik is a Peer Support Outreach Worker at the Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba in the Prairie Mountain Region. Currently in her final year at Brandon University, Adynn is pursuing a major in Psychology with a minor in English, and plans to pursue a Master’s degree in counselling. With a strong sense of empathy and a passion for helping others, Adynn is dedicated to providing support and a safe space for others. In addition to her work in mental health, she is a dance teacher at Steppin Time Dance Studio, where she teaches all genres of dance to children ages 2-13. Outside of work, Adynn enjoys reading, watching movies, sipping coffee, and having good conversation with friends and family.
Alycia Canada
Lora Hay
Bethany Leslie
Adynn Praznik
Crisis Phone List
All Rural Farm and Rural Stress Line: 866-367-3276
North Westman: 866-427-8628
South Westman: 204-326-9276 or toll-free 888-617-7715
Brandon and Assiniboine: 1-888-379-7699
Follow PMH on Social Media:
Wellness Peer Support Group (Westman)
Soul Sisters
Brandon Men’s Activity Club
Brandon Rotary Villas – Tea & Tales
Baby Talk (Brandon)
Minnedosa- Tea & Tales
Boissevain – Tea & Tales
Coffee Talk – Wellness Support Group
Brandon – Tea & Tales
Soul Sisters After Hours
Erickson – Tea & Tales
This is an online mixed group that focuses on wellness topics, addressing all mood disorders, diagnosed or undiagnosed and welcomes everyone to experience an evening of support and connection.
Let’s Talk Wellness 💬✨
Take a step toward better mental health and join our Wellness Peer Support Group! Share your story, gain support, and build connections in a judgment-free space.
🗓 Mondays
🕕 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
📍 Virtual We’re here for you—call/text 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca to register. Let’s thrive together!
Please note: There is no charge for this group and we do not meet on statutory holidays. This group meets every Monday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm.
ONLINE
Every Monday
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Facilitator: Bethany
A community of women who care about each other and who welcome open, honest, heartfelt connections and conversations. Come join a sacred space of nonjudgmental & confidential sharing.
📅 When: Tuesdays, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
📍 Where: Now HYBRID – join us in person at our Brandon office, located at 1003 13th Street, or virtually!
Connect, share, and support one another in a safe and welcoming space. Whether you prefer the comfort of home or joining us in person, we’re here for you!
For questions or to register, call/text us at 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca.
Please note: There is no charge for this group and we do not meet on statutory holidays.
IN PERSON
Tuesday (In-Person/Virtual)
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Facilitator: Bethany
Looking for a space to connect, share, and engage with other men in the community? Join our Men’s Activity Club for weekly sessions focused on support, camaraderie, and wellness. This group is aimed primarily at men 40+ but those younger are welcome as well. The group fosters socialization and connection among men in a workshop setting.
This group meets weekly on Wednesdays from 12:30 – 2:00 pm in person at the BNRC Creation Nation Maker Space in Brandon, Manitoba. This group does not meet on statutory holidays. (No charge for this group.)
To receive the link to this group or for further information, please contact the Brandon office by emailing or calling/texting:
adassist@moodmb.ca
(204) 721-2174
IN PERSON
Wednesday
12:30 to 2:00 pm
Facilitator: In person at the BNRC Creation Nation Maker Space in Brandon, Manitoba
Join us for Tea and Tales at Rotary Villas! This weekly support group offers a warm, welcoming space for seniors to connect, share stories, and support one another.
The group meets every Friday from 10:30 am – 12:00 pm at Rotary Villas, 1340 10 St., Brandon, MB.
To join or for more information, please contact adassist@moodmb.ca or (204) 721-2174.
IN PERSON
Every Friday
10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Facilitator: Lora Hay
💬 Join us for a safe space to connect with other parents and talk about the challenges and joys of postpartum life. We’re here to support your mental wellness on this journey.
📍 Location: MDAM Prairie Mountain Office
📅 Date: Every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month
🕥 10:30 – 11:30 AM
Facilitator: Lora Hay, Alycia Canada, and Brenda Lacerte
For more info or to register, call/text 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca. 💕
IN PERSON
1st and 3rd Monday of the month
10:30-11:30 am
Facilitator: Lora Hay, Alycia Canada, and Brenda Lacerte
Join us for Tea and Tales in Minnedosa! This weekly support group is a safe space for seniors to share stories, connect, and find support for the unique challenges they face. Come for the tea, stay for the tales, and leave with a sense of community.
Calling All Seniors for Tea & Tales at the Minnedosa 50+ Activity Centre!
Location: 31 Main St S, Minnedosa, MB
Time: 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Dates: Wednesdays
MDAM Prairie Mountain has partnered with the Minnedosa 50+ Activity Centre to offer a safe and confidential space for folks to come together! Looking to connect with others in your community? Then come join us for a morning of refreshments to connect, exchange stories and discuss a wide range of mental health topics.
For more information, please call Lora: (431) 866-4234 or (204) 721-2174.
IN PERSON
Wednesdays
10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Facilitator: Lora Hay
We’re excited to continue our Tea and Tales Support Group in Boissevain! Join us for a morning of connection, conversation, and support as we share stories and navigate life’s challenges together.
📅 When: Every Second Tuesday of the month
📍 Where: Cherry Creek Place
⏰ Time: 10:00AM to 11:00AM
This group focuses on seniors and their unique struggles, but all are welcome! Let’s come together, one story at a time.
For questions or to register, call/text us at 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca.
IN PERSON
Every Second Tuesday of the month
10:00 - 11:00 am
Facilitator: Lora Hay
Take a moment for yourself and join us for Coffee Talk in our new Brandon office! This new group is all about fostering wellness, sharing experiences, and simply enjoying great company.
📅 When: Every Thursday, starting January 16, 2025
📍 Where: Brandon Office Support Space, 1003 13th Street, Unit B Brandon, MB R7A 4E9
⏰ Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Sit, sip, and connect in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. We can’t wait to see you there!
For questions or to register, call/text us at 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca.
IN PERSON
Every Thursday
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Facilitator: Lora Hay
Join us for Tea and Tales at the MDAM Prairie Mountain Office! This weekly support group offers a warm, welcoming space for seniors to connect, share stories, and support one another.
The group meets every Thursday from 2:00 – 3:00 pm at the MDAM Prairie Mountain office in Brandon, MB.
To join or for more information, please contact adassist@moodmb.ca or (204) 721-2174.
IN PERSON
Every Thursday
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Facilitator: Lora Hay
🌙 Soul Sisters: After Hours – An Evening of Connection & Support 🌙
Building on the heart of Soul Sisters, Soul Sisters: After Hours offers the same supportive space for women to connect, share, and uplift one another—now in the evening. ✨ Whether you’re looking for encouragement, meaningful conversations, or a sense of sisterhood, this group is here for you.
📍 Location: MDAM Prairie Mountain Office
📅 Every Second Wednesday
🕕 Time: 6:30-8:00 PM
Come as you are—no registration needed! For more info, call/text 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca.
Please note: There is no charge for this group and we do not meet on statutory holidays.
IN PERSON
Every Second Wednesday
6:30-8:00PM
Facilitator: Bethany
☕Tea and Tales Erickson!!☕
We are very excited to bring Tea and Tales to Erickson!
Looking for connection, conversation, and a warm cup of tea?
Join us for Tea and Tales, a brand new wellness group in Erickson! Come sip some tea, enjoy a few snacks, and be part of a welcoming community where stories are shared and friendships grow. 🌿✨
📍 Erickson Drop-In Centre – 31 Main Street, Erickson
🗓️ Every Wednesday
⏰ 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
No registration needed — just drop in!
Let’s build community, one cup at a time. 💬💚
IN PERSON
Wednesdays
1:30 am - 2:30 pm
Facilitator: Lora Hay
Presentation & Workshop Requests
If you are interested in scheduling a presentation or a workshop on peer support and/or mental health, please fill out the Presentation Request Form by clicking on the Request button below.
Book a One-on-One
Do you need someone to talk to? We offer peer support in a one-on-one (virtual) setting. If you would like to book a peer support session, please click on the BOOK NOW button below. Appointments are 30 min – 1 hour in length and are conducted by video chat, using Microsoft Teams.
Success
Stories
Prairie Mountain Events
May 27, 2025 6:00 pm
Hike the Hill
This isn’t just a hike—it’s an immersive experience that blends education, empathy, and entertainment. It’s an opportunity to connect with …
Envision your Wellness
Envision Your Wellness ✨🖼️ Manifest your goals and dreams at our Vision Board Workshop Night! 🌟 Explore your aspirations, focus on …
Roots of Resilience
Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba – Prairie Mountain in partnership with Brandon University Students’ Union are excited to bring a …
Volunteer in Prairie Mountain
Volunteers are integral to the creation and ongoing maintenance of MDAM’s programming. MDAM offers several opportunities for anyone interested in providing support and education directly to our clients.
Interested in volunteering in the Prairie Mountain Region?
