Meet the OPA Board Members

The OPA would not be possible without the incredible work of our Board of Directors. Whether you are a current member of the OPA or you are considering joining, we recognize the importance of getting to know the individuals who are regularly working towards improving this association.

We would like to introduce you to Dr. Michele Foster! Read through our recent interview with Dr. Foster to learn more about her career path (this is a great read for those interested in the field of Psychology).

Richard: What inspired you to pursue a career in psychology?

Michele: I really enjoyed my psychology courses in first year university and had originally thought about being a guidance counsellor for high school students. With this in mind, I actually completed my MEd in Counselling Psychology. During my second year, a dear professor convinced me to pursue my PhD in Clinical Psych and helped me understand that research, which previously terrified me, could be exciting and rooted in my interests. I evaluated representations of embodiment in the media, which furthered my interest in Eating Disorder prevention and treatment. I still have a strong clinical focus on Eating Disorders and a passion for understanding media’s impact on mental health.

Richard: Tell me how did you become involved with the Ontario Psychological Association?

Michele: I have been an OPA member for many years and was originally drawn to the OPA because of the list-serv, which has been a great place to learn and foster new connections. Over the years, I have become more passionate about the role of psychology in Ontario and have liaised with the OPA around issues pertaining to prescription privileges, student mentoring, and advocacy. I have found the OPA to be very open to new perspectives and willing to collaborate, and it has been a pleasure to learn about all their efforts to support and enhance our profession.

Richard: What do you believe is the most important issue facing the field of psychology in Ontario today.

Michele: It’s a tie for me. First, I’d say AI. I wonder how it may impact critical thinking in youth as popularity and access expand. I also remain curious about the impact of AI on traditional psychotherapy. It has the potential to provide concrete skills, increase intervention accessibility, and perhaps even manage mental health challenges in certain populations. At the same time, the value of the therapeutic relationship and full attention of an in-person clinician cannot be replaced, and it will be interesting to watch these two worlds collide, and hopefully, create something powerful.

Secondly, I am mindful of the increase in mental health clinicians within our province given the volume of psychotherapists registering each year. Psychologists bring with them unique training and skills, and it’s especially important to educate the public on the benefits of working with a psychologist and the associated differences between each of the various professionals. There is always going to be a place for psychology, and we can expand this further by reinforcing the unique skillsets we have to the public and government.

Richard: What do you hope to see for the future of psychology in Ontario, and how do you believe the OPA can contribute to that vision?

Michele: I hope that we can continue to expand our role and presence in managing mental health concerns in Ontario. Not just through RxP, but through a greater presence in hospitals, family health teams, bridging treatment, and training. OPA continues to play a role in advocating for us with government to emphasize how we can assist with reducing wait times, reducing hospitalizations, and improving wellness.

Richard: What key advice would you offer to a psychology student or early-career psychologist looking to make the most of their professional journey?

Michele: Find and lean on your people. I am so fortunate to have found one of my closest friends, and now business partner, in graduate school. We have been through weddings, pregnancies, births, losses, graduations, and so much more together. Find someone who cheers you on and inspires you, while also holding you to account. There is so much competition in graduate school. Don’t play into it. We found our friendship by lifting one another up.

My other nugget: There are a lot of hoops but accept that each one will teach you something if you let it. Jumping through them gets easier when you accept the journey and find some momentum (and good supervisors).

Richard: How do you balance your professional responsibilities with your personal life, and what activities or hobbies do you enjoy outside of work?

Michele: Oh man, this is a work in progress for me! Coffee is definitely part of the equation. I love to decompress by going on walks (usually to Starbucks if I’m being honest). I regard myself as a movie aficionado and try to see new releases several times per month, rarely missing a thriller or horror movie. I have a passion for Halloween and am perpetually planning. It’s basically a statutory holiday in my home.

Richard: What are your personal and professional goals during your term on the OPA Board?

Michele: I joined the board this year and am still solidifying the various ways in which I can contribute. I am very excited about the possibility of RxP and hope to be a part of this endeavour. I am eager to work alongside early career psychologists and students to help make the lengthy process of education and registration feel more manageable, and I’m motivated to further assist with advocacy and accessibility in our field.

Richard: Can you share a memorable experience or accomplishment in your career that has had a significant impact on your professional journey?

Michele: I feel very proud that Toronto Psychology & Wellness Group (TPWG) opened the very first community-based outpatient multidisciplinary Eating Disorder Program in Ontario with OHIP-covered medical care for individuals across the lifespan. With this program, we have been able to help hundreds of patients avoid hospitalization and achieve recovery. I am excited to watch this program and our medical branch grow further as we continue to support the needs of our communities.  

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