New Wellness Navigators Supporting Health and Wellness in Pictou County.
Navigating the healthcare system can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when trying to find the right services or supports. That’s where Heather Humphries and Carol-Ann Parsons, Pictou County’s first Wellness Navigators, come in. Based at the One Door Chronic Disease Management Centre in New Glasgow, their goal is to help residents connect with the resources they need to improve their health and well-being.
What is a Wellness Navigator?
Wellness Navigators are Nova Scotia Health employees who help residents access healthcare and wellness services, set personal health goals, and find connections within the community. They work closely with local clinics, organizations, and community members to ensure services are easy to access and tailored to local needs. Whether it’s guiding someone through available resources or creating workshops like stress management or caregiver support, Heather and Carol-Ann provide a bridge to wellness.
This role is new to Pictou County but has been successful in other parts of Nova Scotia, including HRM and Truro. With their combined expertise in health and social work, Heather and Carol-Ann are well-equipped to support the community.
Meet Heather Humphries Carol-Ann is a social worker with a background in mental health, addictions, immigration, and child welfare. Since moving to Pictou County in 2018, she has developed a strong connection with the community and is eager to contribute through her role as a Wellness Navigator.
“Our job is to listen to the community, identify needs, and connect people with the right resources,” said Carol-Ann. She also works with local organizations to develop workshops and programs—ranging from walking groups to wellness seminars—based on the community’s priorities.
When she’s not working, Carol-Ann enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and exploring all that Pictou County has to offer.
How Wellness Navigators Can Help
Heather and Carol-Ann assist with:
- Navigating healthcare systems and accessing local resources
- Setting and achieving personal health goals
- Supporting caregivers and individuals with specific challenges
- Offering workshops and educational programs based on community needs
They also collaborate with local organizations to enhance existing programs, promote new initiatives, and build awareness of available services.
How to Connect
Residents can self-refer to the Wellness Navigator program or be referred by healthcare providers or community organizations. Heather and Carol-Ann are based at the One Door Centre but are available to support anyone in Pictou County.
If you are a Pictou County resident wishing to connect with them, email PCWellness@nshealth.ca or inquire through the One Door Centre’s administration by calling 902-755-7242. A Facebook page is also in development to keep residents informed about upcoming programs and resources.
Source : NSHA Release
