Corrina Masson is Parkinson Society British Columbia’s (PSBC) very own registered social worker and counsellor. With a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in social work from McGill University, Corrina has eight years of experience in the field, including three years focusing on movement disorders. Before joining PSBC in the fall of 2023, she served as a social worker with the Huntington Society of Canada, a national non-profit supporting families affected by Huntington’s disease, a rare genetic brain disorder with movement symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease (PD). Corrina’s passion for social work stems from her desire to help individuals through life’s challenges.
At PSBC, Corrina is one of two counsellors providing short-term, non-crisis counselling to the Parkinson’s community. She works closely with individuals affected by the disease, as well as their carepartners and family members, offering guidance from the initial diagnosis through to advanced stages and end-of-life care.
Recognizing the complexity and uniqueness of each person’s experience with PD, Corrina collaborates with her clients to help them adjust to their diagnosis, manage mental health changes, and address concerns about the future. She creates a safe space for clients to explore their experiences, identify challenges, and build resilience. At the forefront of her practice is helping individuals foster self-compassion, empowering them to support themselves through difficult moments.
Seasoned expert counsellors on the counselling team make a world of difference in setting a positive tone to a frightening and uncertain journey of a life with PD.
– PSBC client feedback
I have found the consulting and counselling to be helpful, and the counsellors to be very professional.
– PSBC client feedback
For those seeking additional support, she also offers healthcare navigation, assisting clients in understanding the healthcare system and connecting with local resources.
I know that there are hundreds of families in Vancouver alone who desperately need this type of high-quality guidance on how to navigate the complicated healthcare system and advocate for their loved ones. Caregiving for an elderly loved one is an overwhelming process, with so much at stake. Having one knowledgeable person to walk beside you, with expertise and time to provide caring and individualized support, as you navigate between systems and teams, makes all the difference.
– PSBC client feedback
Additionally, Corrina facilitates two carepartner support groups, offering emotional and peer support. She recognizes that living with or supporting someone with PD has its challenges, and support groups can provide an incredible source of community and connection.
She also facilitates cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) groups for carepartners and people living with Parkinson’s. CBT, an evidence-based therapy for anxiety and depression, explores the connection between thoughts, mood, and behaviour. The five-week program offered by PSBC equips participants with practical tools and strategies to manage the emotional challenges associated with PD. Corrina is particularly excited about the CBT programs, as they provide clients with practical tools and strategies to navigate anxiety.
Corrina says she loves the different parts of her role, as she is always learning from the individuals she works with. She strongly believes in the power of community and views support groups as a beautiful way to connect with others navigating similar life stressors. In her groups recently, she has explored creative activities like collage-making, and hopes to incorporate more art and creativity in future sessions.
For those who may feel unsure or hesitant about seeking counselling, Corrina says that nervousness is a normal response when facing something new. She helps alleviate anxiety by scheduling a brief phone call with new clients, with the intent of answering any questions they may have and getting to know them better. Her goal is to create a space where clients feel safe, without any pressure to share beyond their comfort zone.
Corrina’s commitment to her clients and her belief in the power of community underscore her dedication to supporting those affected by Parkinson’s disease. Through her compassionate and holistic approach, she continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of many, fostering hope and resilience every step of the way.
If you or someone you love could benefit from the aforementioned services, please contact Parkinson Society BC at info@parkinson.bc.ca.