Community Help Service (CHS) is delighted to announce the appointment of Abby Jackman (she/they) as a Supervisor of the CHS Helpline. Abby joins us with an impressive background in mental health, clinical practice, and volunteer support, bringing a depth of experience that aligns perfectly with the mission and values of our organisation.
CHS relies on skilled and compassionate professionals to lead our 24/7 Helpline, which provides confidential emotional support to English speakers in Belgium and beyond, being there for callers in distress and, at times, with suicidal thoughts. The Supervisors are both the managers and the guardians of the volunteers who are at the heart of the Helpline’s work, playing a crucial role in recruitment, training, supervision, one-to-one support, and the coordination of regular team and committee meetings.
Abby brings over six years of clinical experience, a strong foundation in trauma-informed care, and a proven ability to support teams working in emotionally demanding environments. She holds a Master of Social Work in Mental Health and Health from the University of Toronto, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a Psychology minor, and has worked extensively with youth, adults, and communities facing complex mental health and psychosocial challenges. She brings a strong commitment to anti-oppressive and inclusive support, and has supported individuals exploring identity, belonging, neurodivergence, grief, and life transitions. Her consulting experience includes strengthening trauma-informed referral systems and organisational wellbeing within an international humanitarian setting.
“EXPERTISE, EMPATHY & LEADERSHIP”
Her professional experience spans diverse settings in Canada and internationally. Abby has provided psychotherapy, psychosocial assessments, and crisis support in community health centres, youth clinics, and specialised programmes. At the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture, she counselled survivors of war, trauma, and forced displacement, while also facilitating group programmes, advocating for interdisciplinary care, and presenting on resilience and burnout. She has supervised Master’s-level students, delivered training workshops on vicarious trauma, and designed group therapy programmes focused on trauma recovery and stress management.
Abby’s commitment to service, collaboration, and continuous learning stands out across her career. Her work with Rainbow Railroad – supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals seeking safety – further demonstrates her capacity to navigate high-pressure situations with compassion, clarity, and sound judgment. Earlier in her career, she also coordinated a university peer support service, where she supported the recruitment, training, and supervision of volunteers.
“We are confident that Abby’s expertise, empathy, and leadership will make her an exceptional addition to the Helpline,” said CHS President Jeremy Jennings. “Please join me in welcoming her to CHS as she begins this important role supporting our volunteers and, through them, the many people who rely on the Helpline every day.”