The Creative Wellness Program is a transformative initiative designed to uplift and support the mental health of New Brunswick’s artists. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by artists — such as precarious employment, limited access to affordable mental health care, and the emotional toll of creative work — the program provides a safe and accessible space for healing and growth.
Over three months, 25 artists will have the opportunity to engage in free, personalized counselling sessions tailored to their specific needs. Each participant will receive six, hour-long sessions with one of ten highly skilled counselling interns, trained to provide compassionate and effective mental health support.
These sessions can be held virtually, ensuring accessibility for those in rural or remote areas, or in person for participants based in Fredericton or Saint John. The program not only addresses mental health concerns like stress, anxiety, and burnout but also empowers artists to rediscover their creativity and resilience. By prioritizing mental well-being, the Creative Wellness Program aims to foster a healthier, more vibrant arts sector, enabling artists to thrive personally and professionally.
Brought to life through a partnership between ArtsLink NB and Just Us Inc., and generously funded by the Department of Tourism, Heritage, and Culture, this initiative reflects a deep commitment to supporting the creative community. It is a vital step toward creating an equitable and sustainable environment where New Brunswick’s artists can flourish and continue to enrich the cultural fabric of the province.
Through this program, we celebrate the intrinsic value of both mental wellness and artistic expression, demonstrating that when artists are supported, the entire community benefits.
Key Details:
- Duration: 3 months
- Sessions: Each artist will receive a total of 6 counselling sessions, each an hour long.
- Eligibility: Open to professional artists residing in New Brunswick, must be members of ArtsLink NB.
- ArtsLink Membership: Artists, organizations or supporters can become members of ArtsLink NB – pay what you can!
- Format: Participants can choose between in-person sessions (available in Fredericton and Saint John) or virtual appointments.
- Cost: Free of charge for selected participants.
How It Works:
- Artists will be paired with one of ten counselling interns based on their preferences and availability.
- Counselling interns are:
- Jessica MacLean – Fredericton- Tuesdays and Wednesdays
- Kamala Fox – Fredericton on Thursdays and Fridays
- Mel Evermore- works in Fredericton on Mondays and virtual Tuesdays
- Hailey Shanklin – Saint John on Thursdays and Fridays
- Jennifer Thomas -Saint John on Tuesdays and virtual on Wednesdays
- Kayla Downey – virtual on Fridays
- All interns are available for virtual sessions, but some have dedicated virtual days.
- Full bios for counsellors available here: https://www.justusinc.ca/our-team
How to Apply:
Interested artists are invited to complete an application form. Applicants will need to indicate their session format preference, availability, and any specific intern preferences.
- Application Deadline: February 1, 2026.
Key Dates:
- Application Deadline: February 1, 2026.
- Program Start Date: February 2026
Partners and Funders:
The Creative Wellness Program is brought to you by ArtsLink NB in partnership with Just Us Inc. and is generously funded by the Province of New Brunswick’s Department of Tourism, Heritage, and Culture.
Contact Information:
For questions or further details, please contact:
jeri@artslinknb.com or programming@artslinknb.com via email.