This October, during Work and Mental Health Month, we shine a light on a passionate researcher who has spent over twenty five years transforming how we support the return to work after a mental health challenge. Marc Corbière, holder of the Research Chair in Mental Health and Work, embodies the perfect blend of science, compassion, and human commitment.
“In 1999, I was told that my project was ten years ahead of its time. I replied: would you rather stay ten years behind?” he recalls with a smile.
Today, his boldness has paid off—his work is helping build healthier, more caring workplaces where performance and mental well-being can finally go hand in hand.
With training in ergonomics, occupational psychology, work rehabilitation, social psychiatry, and career counseling, Marc Corbière focuses on professional transitions—those pivotal moments when people redefine who they are and where they belong.
“When someone goes through a transition, it’s a powerful lever for change. They reflect, they reposition themselves, and that’s when we can truly help them regain their balance.”
A Chair That Creates Change
Created thanks to the support of the FIUSMM and the 2017–2020 fundraising campaign, the Research Chair in Mental Health and Work has become a true catalyst for innovation. This initial philanthropic investment paved the way for new public and private partnerships, giving rise to impactful initiatives like the Community of Practice in Mental Health and Work, which brings together researchers, clinicians, employers, and insurers with a shared mission: to improve psychological well-being in the workplace.
Among the Chair’s most remarkable projects is Toolkit , a digital application that equips career counselors and practitioners to better support employees returning to work after a period of psychological distress. The approach is simple, human, and evidence-based. It’s part of a suite of digital tools developed by the Chair, including PRATICAdr, an innovative web-based intervention platform that has been rigorously evaluated.
The results from PRATICAdr are striking:
✔️ An average of 85 fewer days of work absence;
✔️ No relapses observed (compared to 13.2% in the control group);
✔️ A significant reduction in anxiety and depressive symptoms.
Behind these figures are real stories—of people regaining confidence, of workplaces learning to adapt, and of lives finding their rhythm again.
A Partnership That Makes a Difference
Marc Corbière highlights the essential role of the Foundation: “I’ve been deeply impressed by how the Foundation has rallied donors such as the National Bank and iA Financial Group around our project. Their support has been a true lever for growth, allowing us to go further, to launch concrete tools, and to amplify our impact.”
“The CEO of the National Bank once asked me, ‘Are you here to sell me mammoths?’ I replied that no, I was offering concrete solutions. The conversation went on, and a genuine connection began to take shape… ”
Looking Ahead, Together
As the Chair approaches its tenth anniversary, Marc Corbière is already envisioning a major gathering in 2028 to celebrate the progress made and to continue expanding the international reach of his work. His current reflection focuses on recognition and resonance at work as key factors in preventing relapse and supporting sustainable recovery.
“Recognition is at the heart of well-being — not only for preventing psychological distress. For a return to work to be truly sustainable, workplaces must value effort, listen with empathy, and believe in everyone’s potential. Beyond being recognized by one’s peers, it’s just as essential to recognize oneself in one’s work — to resonate with the activities that drive us and feel that what we do truly echoes who we are.”
With his human and inspiring vision, Marc Corbière perfectly embodies the Foundation’s mission: to build a world where everyone can lift their head, reclaim their place, and thrive fully.