Advisory Board
Our Mission
Our team is committed to providing services rooted in science that effectively address the concerns and needs of our community. To promote an evidence-based holistic approach to brain health, we strive to work in close collaboration with medical and scientific professionals who have expertise in brain function and health management. At Balance, we believe that multidisciplinary collaboration is essential to effective healthcare as healthy aging is multifaceted. Our advisory board helps ensure our team members’ ongoing education and the applicability of services for our diverse community. They also support us in providing compassionate and client-centered care.
Dr. Victoria Smith, Ph.D.
Scientific Advisor
Specializing in Behavioural Neuroscience, Dr. Smith completed her Bachelor of Science, Master of Science and Doctoral degrees in Psychology at the University of Calgary. Her graduate work focused on circadian rhythms and the neurobiology of rotating shift work and jetlag. She has also served as a lab manager and researcher in the field of Circadian Rhythms at the University of Calgary, as well as held a Nutrition and Research Associate position in a Large-Animal Nutrition practice (working with horses and cattle), and a managerial role at a Rural Family Medicine practice in Didsbury, Alberta. Most recently, Dr. Smith joined the Spine Program at the University of Calgary with the goal of combining her research skills and her interests in chronic pain, health management and surgical outcomes. Additionally, Dr. Smith has taught at multiple universities in southern and central Alberta in the fields of psychology and Behavioural Neuroscience, and she currently holds a part-time lecturer position at Mount Royal University. Outside of her numerous commitments, she is also a budding entrepreneur, growing two businesses in the healthcare sector and “wealthcare” financial industry.
Dr. Francine Barnard, MD., MSc., CCFP
Medical Advisor
Dr. Barnard is originally from South Africa. She completed her Honours Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree in Neuroscience at the University of Calgary. Subsequently, she completed her Medical Doctor (MD) degree and Residency at the University of Calgary. She has a special interest in the areas of neuroscience, brain injury and its sequelae, and the treatment of chronic pain, such as chronic headaches and migraines. She completed additional postgraduate training to focus her medical practice on health issues such as these.
Dr. Rose Joudi, Ph.D.
Aging & Diversity Advisor
Dr. Joudi holds a BSc (Psych), BA Psych (Honours), MSc Psych (Honours) and PhD in Psychology from Auckland, New Zealand. She is bilingual in English and Arabic and has more than 15 years of academic teaching experience in New Zealand and Canada,
including the University of Calgary and currently Mount Royal University. She primarily teaches in the areas of Human Development, Psychology of Aging, and Social and Clinical Topics in Aging. Dr. Joudi has worked for government and not-for-profit organizations in the areas of refugee and immigrant mental health and well-being, settlement, and integration. She also has experience developing, leading, and facilitating training workshops for health professionals who work with people of diverse backgrounds. She finds it imperative to support professionals in the use of culturally competent strategies and holistic methods in their clinical practice and health plans. She is passionate about enhancing the quality of life of older adults, supporting coping and resilience strategies that promote successful ageing, and ensuring that diversity is acknowledged in professional and community settings. Dr. Joudi is currently a member of the Age-Friendly Calgary Research Advisory Group and she previously served as a board member for the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association (CIWA). In her free time, Dr. Joudi enjoys traveling and making crafts with her 3 children.
Ms. Darlene Hindley
Community Representative
Serving as a community representative, Ms. Hindley presents as a strong advocate for mental health and wellness. Her extensive experience as an educator in the insurance industry and work with Health Canada brings a wealth of insight and knowledge to the Balance team. She will help guide the quality and applicability of the services that are offered and ensure that they meet the needs of our community.
