Former Vernon North Okanagan RCMP Supt. Randy Kolibaba named chief operating officer at organization looking to advance mental healthcare, and addressing critical mental health challenges
The man in charge of a groundbreaking, clinically validated art-based program that uses a transformative approach to mental healthcare, is the former head of the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP detachment.
Randy Kolibaba, superintendent of the local constabulary from 2000-2005, has been named chief operating officer at Inner Immersion Inc., an organization dedicated to advancing mental healthcare, and addressing critical mental health challenges.
“The mental healthcare system in B.C. plays a vital role, servicing approximately 800,000 individuals each day, which accounts for nearly 17 per cent of the population,” said Inner Immersion, announcing Kolibaba as COO.
“To strengthen this essential system, it’s imperative to address key challenges related to accessibility, quality, and affordability…Inner Immersion aims to facilitate meaningful improvements in the delivery of mental healthcare services, thereby positively impacting countless lives.”
Kolibaba will oversee Inner Immersion’s transformative program that enhances capacity and efficiency, and facilitates rapid and effective care delivery.
The art-based healing approach is inspired by the rich tapestry of First Nations culture.
“Our program emphasizes values like acceptance, forgiveness, resilience, and hope,” said Kolibaba. “It incorporates evidence-based techniques such as mindfulness, guided meditation, and cognitive-behavioural strategies, often revealing core emotional wounds in just one or two sessions.”
Inner Immersions Inc. looks to establish a strong support network that unites First Nations communities, mental health professionals, first responders, veterans, and individuals 16 and over throughout B.C.
“Our program at the Red Road Recovery Centres in the Okanagan (Lumby, Salmon Arm, Sorrento) serves as a testament to the significant impact of collaborative efforts in fostering transformation, thereby facilitating the attainment of a more promising future,” said Inner Immersions.
The Inner Immersions initiative aligns with a vision set forth by the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, and supports the strategic objectives of all six provincial health authorities.
Prior to becoming RCMP Superintendent in Vernon, Kolibaba led Canada’s largest civilian peacekeeping mission with the United Nations in Kosovo in 1999. After his service with the UN, Kolibaba faced the challenges of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but transformed his experiences into a powerful mission.
Since retiring, Kolibaba has become a best-selling author, and committed himself to raising awareness and supporting individuals affected by PTSD through inspiring speaking engagements in North America.
For more information on Inner Immersion, visit www.innerimmersion.org.
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