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Advocate | Veteran Mental Health | Benefits & Claims
Chris Lee is a proud Nova Scotian and retired Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class with over 33 years of distinguished service in the Royal Canadian Navy. Beginning his career as an Electronic Warfare Operator and advancing to Electronic Warfare Technician, Chris eventually transitioned into the Naval Electronic Sensors Operator (NESOP) classification with the advent of MORPS. Throughout his career, he served aboard several Canadian warships, including HMCS Terra Nova during the Gulf War and HMCS Ville de Québec for Operation Sharp Guard. He also completed multiple NATO deployments and held instructional and leadership roles at Fleet School and MARLANT Headquarters as a specialist in above-water warfare. In 2008, Chris earned his degree in Military Sciences from the Royal Military College of Canada.
After retiring from the Navy, Chris faced his own challenges with PTSD and physical health issues. Instead of retreating, he chose to transform that experience into advocacy. Now serving as the Veterans Coordinator at Acuity Counselling and Therapy Services, Chris helps fellow veterans take their first steps into the often-overwhelming world of mental health care. He provides a crucial point of contact—offering reassurance, guidance, and understanding as he connects veterans with appropriate therapy and assessments. Having lived through the systemic frustrations many veterans face, Chris brings empathy, credibility, and lived experience to his role. He bridges the cultural gap between the military’s “suck-it-up” mentality and a post-service reality where seeking help is not only acceptable but essential. His mission is to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues, advocate for timely support, and help veterans rediscover a sense of purpose beyond the uniform. Chris is proud to stand alongside a multidisciplinary team devoted to personalized, veteran-centered care. Through his work at Acuity, he continues to serve—this time, in the battle for mental health awareness, support, and dignity. |
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Advisor | Veteran Mental Health | Research
A military veteran and psychologist with over 30 years of experience, John dedicated his career to supporting the mental health and well-being of serving members and veterans. He's led national and international research, authored three books on military mental health, and continues to serve as Professional Advisor to the Veterans Ombud. John is also an Adjunct Professor at Mount Saint Vincent University and a consultant on veteran and military related issues at Acuity.
John's work includes clinical care, advocacy, and group therapy, including a recent program for Ukrainian medical personnel exposed to trauma. He is also available for consultation and workshops for mental health clinicians. John remains committed to helping veterans access informed, respectful care and to advancing conversations around the lasting impact of service. John is currently conducting a research study in affiliation with MSVU to understand the experiences of veterans transitioning to civilian life. If you’ve faced mental health difficulties due to military service in the Canadian Armed Forces (e.g., PTSD, depression, moral injury, or institutional challenges), we invite you to participate in this anonymous online survey. The survey consists of 35 questions that will take 20-30 minutes to complete.
Your insights can help improve support services for veterans. Participation is voluntary and confidential. |
