Our

Inter-disciplinary team

Shannon Hart

Registered Nurse

A registered nurse for 15 years, Shannon was both a caregiver at work and at home, going from the hospital to taking care of both of her ailing parents during their subsequent passings. Shannon embarked on her own healing journey after experiencing burnout both in her personal and professional life, leading her to an Ayahuasca retreat in Peru. 

After having profound shifts from this medicine in conjunction with psychotherapy, Shannon became passionate about advocating for psychedelic therapy in a responsible and sustainable way. Shannon has experience working in mental health and addictions, and has completed Roots To Thrive’s Integrative Therapy, MAPS Psychedelic Fundamentals, and ATMA’s Introduction to Psychedelic Therapy courses. Author of the book “The Patient Doesn’t Come First…YOU DO”, Shannon is passionate about teaching self-care to people in caregiving roles so they can lead healthy and happy lives.

Derek Rothe

Nurse Practitioner

Derek began his nursing career in the specialty of oncology where he practiced initially as a registered nurse, then went on to complete his master’s degree at the University of Alberta and obtained his Nurse Practitioner (NP) license. Over the past 6 years his NP practice has been primarily in oncology and more recently geriatrics working with patients and families who are navigating the challenges that come with dementia. 

His experiences have helped him to appreciate the complexities and challenges people go through during difficult and life-limiting illness. Never shy to approach difficult conversations and bear witness to depths of the human experience, his ability to connect with people on their path is evidenced by his compassionate approach to care. 

A life-long learner, he strives provide safe, competent care. Through his own personal experiences with plant medicines he developed a passion for working in the space of psychedelic medicine, and continues to find awe in the process when psychedelics are used as tools for healing. He also volunteered for some time on a psychedelic peer-support phone line providing peer support to those encountering challenging trips and looking to integrate their experiences in a non-clinical matter. 

Outside of professional work you can find him on the yoga mat, practicing oil painting, and enjoying quality time with friends.

Derek Profile

Kylie Morey

Registered Nurse

Meet Kylie, a registered nurse with a background in emergency and intensive care, and holistic cannabis nursing. After facing burnout early in her nursing career amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, she shifted gears. She began exploring the therapeutic potential of plant medicines and the role of the nurse in the rapidly-evolving realm of psychedelic-assisted therapy.

This exploration led her to Cena Life, where she found a supportive environment where she can practice holistic nursing, take time to build therapeutic relationships, and witness profound transformations in clients’ mental health and overall well-being. Kylie meets client’s where they’re at on their healing journey and walks with them, providing support through their treatment program.

Beyond her dedication to nursing, Kylie is an avid, yet mediocre golfer, finding joy in spending time with her family and two dogs, Bronson and Monty. She has a passion for stand-up comedy, live music, and exploring the world through travel. Join Kylie on the path to holistic health and well-being at our psychedelic-assisted therapy clinic.

Matt Schaaf

Compassionate Witness

Matt Schaaf serves as a Compassionate Witness at Cena Life. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, he has dedicated three years to professional engagement within the mental healthcare sector. 

His fascination with altered states of consciousness dates back to his childhood; however, it was during his university studies that he discovered the profound potential of psychedelics, motivating him to transform his passion into a vocation. Engaging in this meaningful and impactful work has been deeply fulfilling, for Matt, as he has embraced my role in fostering individual and collective healing. Matt has nurtured a profound appreciation for diverse cultures and landscapes from exploring over 20 countries. An ardent lover of the outdoors, he finds solace and inspiration amidst the natural world. Furthermore, he is a devoted film enthusiast and has embarked on a journey to learn the ukulele, albeit at an amateur level!

Trina Wolansky

Trina Wolansky

Registered Nurse

Trina is a Registered Nurse with an extensive 30 year background in nursing and clinical and corporate leadership. She has advanced training in psychedelic assisted psychotherapy, cannabis nursing and hormone health reflecting a commitment to holistic client care. Trina’s passion for mental and holistic health stems from her personal journey driving her desire to assist others on their paths to recovery and wellness.

Outside of work, Trina enjoys spending time with family, friends and pets, golf, cooking, gardening and getting outdoors.

Melissa Jenkinson

Administrator

Meet Melissa, a dedicated and detail-oriented professional with a passion for human resources and administrative management. With over two decades of experience, Melissa brings a wealth of expertise to the table. With a background in HR and a knack for organization, she excels in managing various aspects of personnel administration, from recruitment and onboarding to employee relations and performance management. 

Melissa’s transition into the psychedelics and mental health sector was a natural evolution, guided by a connection akin to human mycelium. As a devoted wife and mother to four beautiful girls and two four legged kids, Melissa understands the importance of balance and effective time management.

Her approach to both work and home life is characterized by loyalty, hard work, and attention to detail. Whether she is coordinating schedules, streamlining processes, or planning family activities, she strives for excellence in everything she does. 

Lindsey Heerema

Registered Nurse

Allow us to introduce Lindsey, one of the Administrative Supports who plays a vital role in ensuring Cena Life operates smoothly both day to day and in the long run. Her decade-long experience in various healthcare administrative roles has solidified her understanding of the power of teamwork for community betterment. 

Lindsey finds excitement in contributing to a health revolution that addresses the needs of individuals often overlooked by traditional medicine. Her dedication to fostering a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to well-being is motivating.

Lindsey finds joy in spending quality time with her husband and three children. Her commitment to community shines as she volunteers at her children’s school and supporting her children in their extracurricular activities. She is also a lover of the great outdoors; Lindsey’s Yukon upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for nature’s wonders.