Shreya Bhattacharjee: Volunteer Coordinator

Shreya Bhattacharjee is an eager and compassionate volunteer who is passionate about supporting others through empathy, connection, and evidence-based understanding. She is graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Human Behaviour from McMaster and hopes to continue growing within therapeutic and mental health settings. Shreya is excited to learn as much as possible while contributing meaningfully to the well-being of those she supports.

Shreya brings valuable hands-on clinical and community experience working with diverse populations in need of care and understanding. She has supported individuals within mental health settings at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, where she worked closely with patients to provide companionship, encouragement, and a welcoming presence throughout their treatment journeys. She has also volunteered at a women’s homeless shelter, assisting with food drives, meal preparation, and offering kindness, conversation, and emotional support during difficult times. In addition, Shreya has experience volunteering with a distress call centre, supporting individuals living with PTSD and emotional distress by offering a calm, caring, and dependable voice over the phone. These experiences have strengthened her belief in the power of compassion, active listening, and human connection.

Her undergraduate research focused on eating disorders, the impact of social media on mental health, and the application of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Through this work, she gained valuable clinical insight into supporting individuals affected by eating disorders, deepening her understanding of the emotional, behavioural, and social factors involved in recovery and healing. She is especially interested in bringing what she has learned academically into real-world therapeutic environments where it can positively impact individuals and families.

Shreya hopes to create a comfortable, inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels seen, respected, and supported. She values building trust and helping others feel less alone in whatever they may be facing. Outside of education, Shreya enjoys cozying up with a good murder mystery novel, baking in the kitchen, and spending time outdoors with her dog, Ray.