A healing journey for Indigenous communities

After crossing paths multiple times and looking for opportunities to work together, Noojimo founder Randi Ray and co-CEO Bill Hill (Ro’nikonkatste) had an ‘aha moment’ while visiting a northern Ontario community together. "It all happened over toast and eggs — and a lot of Cheez Whiz," says Bill.   

During the early stages of the pandemic, the community was experiencing a youth mental health crisis. It became clear that the caregivers supporting these young people were also feeling the strain — especially without access to the same resources available in more urban or hospital settings, recalls Hill. Over breakfast the following morning, the pair began discussing an idea: Why not create  an Employee Assistance Program "run by us, for us," says Hill, a nurse, social worker, high school teacher, and the creator of Biigajiiskaan: Indigenous Pathways to Mental Wellness, Canada's first Elder-guided psychiatry program in a faith-based mental health hospital. When pandemic restrictions hit, that hospital program transitioned into a virtual mental wellness clinic. That experience planted the seeds for what would become  Noojimo Health, Canada’s first all-Indigenous virtual mental wellness clinic.    
  
 


Understanding the cultural, historical, and social contexts that shape Indigenous mental wellness is crucial. Culturally appropriate care is essential, and the practitioner's perspective and experiences are just as important as the support they provide.

Noojimo, rooted in Anishinaabemowin, speaks to the mind moving toward healing. “This happens when we do the work wholistically — mind, body, spirit, and emotions together,” says co-CEO Valérie Michelutti, who has a Master of Science in neuroscience. Since its launch, Noojimo has expanded from two clinicians to a circle of dedicated and compassionate Indigenous health professionals offering individual, family, and group mental health support through a culturally safe lens, ensuring everyone feels seen and supported throughout their healing journey.   

“Noojimo clinicians weave together Indigenous and Western ways to support healing and wellness,” says Michelutti. “The human brain is constantly scanning for danger for survival, especially in those who have experienced trauma, colonization, or systemic exclusion. When care is culturally grounded and delivered by Indigenous clinicians who reflect the diverse Indigenous communities they serve, it sends powerful signals of safety to the nervous system. Noojimo creates a safe space for belonging, trust, identity, and self-expression, helping to calm the brain’s stress response and open the door to true, authentic wholistic healing.”

Noojimo’s programs honour and incorporate traditional Indigenous pathways of care through a virtual platform, highlighting the ongoing innovation and inner strength of Indigenous Peoples. In addition to being available to GreenShield’s clients, its counselling services are part of GreenShield’s signature Women’s Mental Health program and can be accessed through GreenShield+.   
  


“GreenShield is walking the talk,” says Hill. “It’s a true relationship that turned into a partnership.” By expanding access to care today, we’re impacting lives and improving health outcomes, he says. “It’s generational healing.”