Episode 18: Involuntary Care
From A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health by CMHA Kelowna and Jessica Samuels
October 24, 2025 · 32 min · Episode 18
About this episode
This episode discusses the complexities of involuntary care in British Columbia's mental health system with insights from CMHA Kelowna's CEO.
Episode 18: Involuntary Care Presented by: Beam Credit Union Host: Jessica Samuels Guest: Mike Gawliuk, CEO, CMHA Kelowna Episode Overview In this episode, Jessica Samuels speaks with CMHA Kelowna CEO Mike Gawliuk about the complex and often divisive topic of involuntary care in British Columbia’s mental health system. Together, they unpack what involuntary care means under the BC Mental Health Act, explore how and when it’s used, and discuss why it continues to spark debate around human rights, compassion, and the need for a stronger voluntary care system. Mike offers insight into the legal framework, current practices, and the growing conversation around compassionate mandated care—especially in the context of the province’s drug poisoning crisis and rising homelessness. The conversation also touches on concerns about overrepresentation of marginalized groups and what safeguards and accountability measures exist within the system. Key Takeaways Understanding the Mental Health Act: The Act defines how involuntary and voluntary mental health treatment occurs in BC, with four key criteria determining if someone can be certified for involuntary care. Checks and balances…
People in this episode
Host: Jessica Samuels
Guest: Mike Gawliuk
Topics covered
- involuntary care
- mental health
- human rights
- BC Mental Health Act
- compassionate care
- drug poisoning crisis
- marginalized groups
Keywords
- involuntary care
- mental health
- BC Mental Health Act
- human rights
- compassionate care
- drug crisis
- marginalized groups
Sponsors
Beam Credit Union
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: CMHA Kelowna
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