CALGARY - Louise Bradley has been named Chief Operating Officer of the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC). "Louise brings with her a wealth of experience in the mental health field and I am very pleased to welcome her to help lead our team," says MHCC President and CEO Michael Howlett.

Ms. Bradley is currently Vice President and COO of Regional Mental Health for Capital Health in Edmonton. In that capacity she manages a broad continuum of services including both in-patient and community programs. She plays a lead role in policy development and in the design and implementation of mental health strategies in the region.

Prior to her appointment, Ms. Bradley was a member of the MHCC's Service Systems advisory committee. During her career she has been actively involved in providing professional mental health advice and support, leading the integration of provincial health programs, and managing the needs of a wide variety of stakeholders in both Eastern and Western Canada.

"The Commission is the most important thing to happen to mental health in the country," says Ms. Bradley. "I believe the work of the Commission can make a real difference in many lives and I am delighted and honored to become a formal part of this great initiative."

Ms. Bradley is a registered nurse and also holds a Master of Science degree with a specialty in mental health. She will be based out of the Commission's Calgary office and begins her new role on February 9th.

The MHCC is a non-profit organization created to focus national attention on mental health issues. It is funded by the federal government but operates at arm's length from all levels of government. The Commission's objective is to enhance the health and social outcomes for Canadians living with mental health problems and illnesses. www.mentalhealthcommission.ca