Douglas Educator Janet Komarnicka has devoted the last thirty years caring for patients with severe mental illness. An expert at helping people make the most of their abilities, she still has a spring in her step when she comes to work, "It's a real pleasure. I love my job."

Janet has worked in many Douglas programs, but since 1997 she has been a vital force within the Intellectual Handicap with Psychiatric Comorbidity Program's Phoenix Workshop. Her outstanding career performance recently earned her a nomination for the Douglas' 2007 Roberts Award at the latest Celebration of Excellence Gala. Also, Janet was presented the 2001 Quebec Association of Educators Excellence in Practice and Commitment to the Field Award.

Never Wavers

One of Janet's many strengths is her eagerness to take initiative. In 2005, she helped to found the Low Stimulation Group, a selection of patients easily upset by noise and bustle. The group meets in a separate area where they work on social skills, developing their special interests, and communications.

A natural teacher, Janet also mentors CEGEP students working towards their Special Care Counselling Diploma, and newly-hired Douglas educators, who regularly look to her for guidance.

According to Debbie Nasheim, program chief for the Intellectual Handicap with Psychiatric Comorbidity Program, one of Janet's most valued talents is her consistency.

"Patients know exactly where they stand with Janet. She makes her expectations clear and never wavers. They thrive on this. It makes them feel safe and cared for."

Debbie also values Janet's sound judgement, "She has an instinct for spotting and reducing tension in patients, just as it starts to surface. She also is great at finding activities that build upon the natural interests of patients, and is appreciated by her colleagues."

In addition to these talents, Janet is fluent in sign language, a skill she learned at an early age as one of five children of deaf-mute parents.

Priceless Connections

Janet and her Phoenix Workshop colleagues take patients into the community several times a month to venues like Carrefour Angrignon, bowling alleys, sugar shacks, and McDonald's, "It's a great way for our patients to connect with people, even if many of them don't speak.

"After all, ‘making a connection' doesn't have to involve words! It can be as simple as making eye contact or sharing a smile. In addition to raising patients' self-esteem, these connections reduce the general public's fear about mental illness. It's a powerful way to fight stigma.

"Here's an example of how it works. One of our patients likes babies. She has a child of her own. She often approaches mothers with strollers and politely asks if she can see their child. Mothers are always happy to show her their young ones.

"We have another patient who likes to go to McDonald's. Although he can't talk, we encourage him to order on his own. He does this by showing a picture of whatever he wants to eat - such as a muffin or juice. McDonald's employees are always respectful, and very punctual with his order. It's a wonderful confidence builder for him. And it teaches employees and other customers that people with mental illness and intellectual challenges can and should have a place in society at large."

Over her Douglas career, Janet has cared for children, teens, adults, and seniors with many types of mental illnesses. Whatever the age group, whatever the challenge, she always strives to improve her performance. Janet remembers once asking a head nurse, "What else can I do for my patients?" The head nurse said, "Janet, you're already giving 110%!"

Add to that Joan's superb work, as part of her regular job in organizing mental health conferences, and it's clear she is an outstanding Douglas ambassador.

Special Mentors

Janet had challenges of her own as she grew up. In elementary school, she rarely spoke and was sent to a special education class for several years. There she met an inspirational teacher who showed great caring and belief in people's strengths. Her example inspired Janet to devote her life to others with disabilities, and is one of the main reasons why Janet is at the Douglas today.

Janet also admires her Aunt Chacha who taught her the power of honesty, "If I make a mistake, especially with a patient, I always admit it and apologise. It's an important way to show respect for someone who is combating a mental illness."

When asked to sum up the success of her Douglas career, Janet says, "Every day, a patient or a colleague tells me they love me in words or gestures. How many people are lucky enough to have a career like that?" N.S.

In a Word or Two…

What word best describes mental illness?
Unique/Challenging

What film has most influenced your thoughts on mental health?
Rainman and The Miracle Worker

How do you maintain a balanced lifestyle?
I live in the moment and I realize I can only do so much.

Who is doing outstanding work in destigmatizing mental illness?
People who have mental illness and are willing to talk about it in public.

In 125 years, will the Douglas still be here?
Yes, with a focus on research.

One word that describes the Douglas?
Reaching out