Adrienne has been working in the field of disability services for over 10 years and has graduated from the Developmental Service Worker program at Algonquin College. She has volunteer experience at a friendship group for adults with developmental and physical disabilities. Since then, she has supported individuals in community, educational and residential settings. Adrienne is fluent in English, French and American Sign Language.

“I like that ACT offers a variety of therapies and interventions. The diverse educational background enriches the environment for the staff and children.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?
The Bermuda Triangle

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?
Capybara

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Pizza

This post is also available in: French

Abbey is a registered Speech-language Pathologist with a wide range of professional experience in early intervention, special learning support and education. She is an outgoing, creative and adaptable clinician skilled in the development of individualized and goal-focused treatment plans.

Abbey values developing and fostering meaningful rapport with clients, families and co-workers. She enjoys working collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team, with the client and family at the centre, to reach holistic outcomes that have a real-world impact.

Abbey loves to travel and has a sausage dog named Oni (the pepperoni).

“I have a passion and determination to help people of all ages develop, regain and refine their ability to communicate.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be? 

The Philippines

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?

Giraffe

What’s your favourite holiday?

Halloween

This post is also available in: French

Allison is a bilingual Occupational Therapist Assistant working in the Entry to School program at ACT’s Pembroke location. She holds an Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Diploma from Algonquin College and is certified in DIR/Floortime. Allison looks forward to furthering her knowledge by completing more courses and training in the field of autism.

“Knowing we are having a positive impact on the day-to-day lives of the children and caregivers is a very fulfilling feeling. Being part of the BOG team and witnessing the growth we are seeing in the children as a multidisciplinary team.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Italy

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?

Sloth

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Taco’s

This post is also available in: French

Alyssa has experience working in school, home, community and clinic settings with children of all ages and abilities to foster meaningful engagement in activities. Much of her experience has been centered on supporting children with ASD and neurodevelopmental disorders in the development of self and sensory regulation, fine and gross motor skills, social engagement and independence with self-care tasks via a naturalistic, play-based approach. She has assisted in the creation and implementation of a program to support children with ASD in their transition to preschool and has led social, self-regulation and health and fitness groups (including dance) for youth with neurodevelopmental disorders. Additionally, she is expanding her competencies in youth mental health.

Alyssa holds a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Queen’s University and an Honours Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and Mental Health with a Minor in Psychology from Carleton University. Alyssa is also an avid dancer and enthusiast of all things outdoors!

“I enjoy ACT’s strength-based and family-centered approach to care, plentiful opportunities for professional development and support, and am happy to be a part of a team of inter-professionals that strives to collaborate to optimize outcomes for clients and their families.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be? 

Italy – mountains, beaches, and amazing food

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Pasta – hands down!

Are you a morning person or a night-owl?

Night-owl

This post is also available in: French

Ana has been practicing in the field of Behavior Analysis since 2016, beginning her career as an Instructor Therapist in Dubai. She received her Board Certification as a Behavior Analyst in 2019, following the completion of a BCBA Verified Course Sequence at the Florida Institute of Technology. Ana holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Saint-Joseph University of Beirut, Lebanon, which she completed in 2015.

Specializing in Verbal Behavior and early intervention, Ana has experience working with children and youth with ASD in both clinical and school settings. She has collaborated with schools in the development of IEPs and has facilitated the integration of children with ASD into classroom settings.

Ana is passionate about training parents, caregivers, and therapists to implement personalized treatment programs that adhere to evidence-based practices. Her multilingual fluency in English, French, Arabic and Romanian enhances her ability to serve a diverse client base and her cross-cultural communication skills allow her to provide effective and empathetic therapeutic outcomes.

“ACT is renowned for its multi-disciplinary approach and for fostering a positive work culture, making it exciting to be a part of this exceptional team.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Japan

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?

Ezo flying squirrel

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Thai

This post is also available in: French

Andrew has been practicing in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis since 2013. He began as a behaviour technician, obtained his BCaBA credentials in 2015, and became a BCBA in 2017. He has been a crisis management instructor since 2016 and has taught for both the Professional Crisis Management Association and the Crisis Prevention Institute.

Andrew has worked with clients of varying backgrounds, from age two to senior adults, and across private homes, group homes, adult day training facilities, private schools, public schools (K-12) and learning centres. He has consulted with multiple school districts to develop assessment tools, staff training programs, class-wide intervention systems, and IEP processes. He has also collaborated with individual schools in developing specific IEPs to help them conform to legal and local regulatory standards for behavioural services. From Andrew’s experiences, he has developed a passion for training and coaching others through effective and ethical practices.

In addition to his professional experiences in the field of ABA, Andrew has been a licensed race car driver, a professional musician (drums, bass, and guitar), a text editor for a local publication, a freelance photographer, and an I.T. Support Specialist.

“I recently moved to Canada, and ACT Learning Centre quickly stood out from other providers. Their reputation for providing effective services and taking care of their staff set them apart from their competition. ACT is also one of the few centres that incorporate ABA, Speech and Language and Occupational Therapy under the same roof, which helps support the whole learner through a multidisciplinary approach.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be? 

I’d return to Oslo, Norway any day; but I’d also love a chance to visit New Zealand

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?

I have wanted a pet wallaby for as long as I can remember

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Sushi

This post is also available in: French

Angela holds a diploma in Social Services and has completed her degree in Child Studies at Carleton University. Her background includes extensive experience in a preschool setting across various classes. Prior to joining the ETS Team, Angela dedicated 5 years to providing one-on-one therapy using the Early Start Denver Model, a play-based approach. Her focus involved working with children diagnosed with ASD and their families, offering support in both home and center settings. Angela worked with clients on receptive/expressive communication skills, play, transitions, and various routines.

She is passionate about getting to know her clients and their interests, fostering positive relationships in the classroom. Angela firmly believes in building skills through play to establish meaningful and motivating learning experiences for children.

This post is also available in: French

Caitlin has been a Registered Early Childhood Educator for nearly two decades. She holds a Bachelor of Psychology as well as a graduate certificate in Autism and Behaviour Sciences. Throughout her career, Caitlin has experience working in daycare centres and schools.

“I have a passion for working with young children. I have worked in full-day kindergarten for 10 years. Working in the Entry To School program allows me to help support these children where they are in their development and help prepare them for their upcoming school transition.”

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Chocolate

What’s your favourite holiday?

Christmas

Are you a morning person or a night-owl?

Morning person

This post is also available in: French

Caitlin is a registered Occupational Therapist with the province of Ontario. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from McGill University in 2009 and a Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from Queen’s University in 2011.  Caitlin has spent the majority of her clinical career working with the pediatric population, in the school, community and clinic settings. She has provided consultation and direct therapy to address a wide range of physical, cognitive and sensory-based issues.

Caitlin has extensive experience in assessment and intervention with children with autism spectrum disorders, developmental disorders and developmental delays. Caitlin has completed the Professionals Certificate in the DIR/Floortime  Model and the advanced workshop for the Early Start Denver Model.  She has specialized training in feeding therapy, sensory processing and play based therapy.

This post is also available in: French

Cassandra is a Registered Early Childhood Educator and has years of experience working in childcare and has primarily held positions working with children ranging from ages one to four. When Cassandra isn’t working, you can find her playing volleyball, field hockey or hanging out with her two cats Sevro and Nala!

“I work at ACT because the environment is welcoming and inclusive. I love the standards and practice of ACT Learning Centre and the inclusion they provide for all children.”

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?

Lion!

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Bananas!

What’s your favourite holiday?
Halloween!

This post is also available in: French

Charlotte holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Understanding Autism and has 10 years of experience working in early learning environments. Charlotte speaks both English and French and is passionate about music!

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?

New Zealand

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?

Otter

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Breakfast

This post is also available in: French

Deidre holds a Bachelor of Behavioural Psychology and has previous experience working in Long-Term Care in Recreation Therapy, as well as with children implementing different recreation/behavioural programs. Deidre is also a textile artist and plays the guitar, ukulele, piano and some banjo!

I have always had a passion for working with children. ACT is an amazing company that I am so grateful to be part of. I love the feeling that I am making a difference.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Europe

If you could own any exotic animal, what would it be?
Possum

If you had to eat one food for the rest of you life, what would it be?
Maple Mustard Tofu

This post is also available in: French

Elena holds a Bachelor of Psychology from McGill University, as well as a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Queens University. She also holds certificates in Pediatric mental health and trauma; Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Feeding and Eating, Fine Motor Development and Sensory processing. Elena has been working with children, youth and young adults in an Occupational Therapy setting since the fall of 2021. Prior to becoming an OT, Elena worked with neurodivergent individuals for approximately 10 years both in groups and in one-to-one settings. In her spare time, Elena enjoys walking her dog, gardening and playing music with her partner.

“ACT is a growing organization that is founded on a genuine caring about the well-being of the families they serve. There is lots of room to grow as a professional within the ACT community and I feel valued as an employee and team member at ACT Learning Centre.”

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Tacos… there are so many different things to do with tacos

What’s your favourite holiday?
Christmas! I love how cozy it is

Are you a morning person or a night-owl?
Morning person

This post is also available in: French

Emilie holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and is a Registered Early Childhood Educator. She has supervisory experience working with preschool-aged children and speaks both English and French.

“I work at ACT because I love the supportive team environment and professional development opportunities.”

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Bora Bora

If you could own any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?
Lion cub

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Pizza

This post is also available in: French

Emily is a Registered Behaviour Analyst and has been working in the field for over a decade. She holds a Master of Professional Education from Western University. Her clinical area of focus is in evidence-based early intervention for children on the autism spectrum. She also has a special interest in comprehensive ABA programming, verbal behaviour therapy and functional communication training. Emily has completed the advanced workshop for the Early Start Denver Model and has experience delivering ABA/IBI services in the home, school and in centre-based programs.

“I was one of the first employees hired at ACT and was excited to assist in opening a new clinic. I was interested in ACT’s vision of providing a variety of evidence-based therapy and working on a multi-disciplinary team.”

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Pizza

What’s your favourite holiday?

Christmas

Are you a morning person or a night-owl? 

Morning person

This post is also available in: French

Emily holds a Master of Occupational Therapy from Queen’s University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science from Trent University. She has over 10 years of experience working with children through summer camps, nannying and volunteer work and has volunteered with an adapted hockey team (Capital City Condors) for over 13 years. In her spare time, Emily loves to travel, she has been to over 20 countries!

ACT Learning Centre aligns with my values as someone who works with children. ACT’s approach avoids a ‘one-size-fits-all’ methodology, instead offering client-centered interventions to ensure the best possible care. Even in my short time here, I have already seen the tremendous benefits of the Entry to School program, which effectively prepares children for a successful transition to the school environment.

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be? 
Croatia or Greece!

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Tacos – so versatile

What’s your favourite holiday?
Christmas

This post is also available in: French

Emily holds a Developmental Services Worker Diploma and has extensive experience in the autism sector. She has previous experience as an educational assistant and an instructor therapist and has provided respite care to families with children who have complex medical needs. Emily has also previously taught cooking programs for Autism Ontario.

Emily has completed the ECE Child Developmental Course, Crisis Prevention Intervention and ASL Level 1.

“I work at ACT because I wanted to work at a multidisciplinary centre that offers and supports children’s early learning and childhood development. Having an opportunity to explore the world of education again in a new setting that offers a holistic approach to working with autistic children.”

This post is also available in: French

Emma is a bilingual Classroom Facilitator in the Entry to School program. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in French and English from St. Francis Xavier University.

Emma’s experience includes teaching swimming lessons, working with RCDSB as an EA and EC, as well as a behaviour therapist at a private school for children with autism.

“I chose to work at ACT as I heard about how much they incorporate different disciplines in their programming which is amazing to see every child be successful in the Entry to School program through ACT.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be? 
Greece

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?
Puffin

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Nachos!

This post is also available in: French

Eva is a Classroom Facilitator in ACT’s Entry to School program.

Eva is currently a full-time student Majoring in Childhood and Youth Studies with a minor in Disability Studies and has experience working in an ECE Learning Class and as an aftercare counsellor.

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?
Monkey

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Deli Sandwich

What’s your favourite holiday?
Halloween

This post is also available in: French

Gabrielle has experience in developing and implementing plans to facilitate advancements in skills for children with developmental and intellectual disabilities, as well as individually assisting university-aged students with a variety of disabilities in the completion of labs and classes. She has also worked with populations who acquired brain injuries, in forensic psychiatry and outpatient rehabilitation. Gabrielle joined the ACT team in order to work with the pediatric population, which has always been her goal.

Gabrielle holds a Bachelor of Science Honours Major: Human Kinetics, a Master of Science in Human Health Nutritional Sciences + Neuroscience Minor and a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy + Indigenous Focus Minor.

“I am excited to work at ACT Learning Centre because I see it as a wonderful opportunity for a new graduate who wants to work with children and learn and grow in her role. I benefit from the combined knowledge and experience of the other interdisciplinary team members and am encouraged and supported in pursuit of continuing education. I believe ACT Learning Centre offers the perfect foundation for my career goals and will allow me to make a positive and meaningful impact in my community.”

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Vindaloo

What’s your favourite holiday?
Halloween

Are you a morning person or a night-owl?
Morning person

This post is also available in: French

Helen holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and is currently working towards a Bachelor of Childhood and Youth Studies. She is fluent in both English and French. In her spare time, Helen loves cooking African food and blasting loud music to put some groove in the house!

“My passion is to work with children. The Entry to School program allows me to help the children by developing their skills and help them by preparing for the upcoming school transition.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Africa, Carribean and Ireland

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?

Giraffe

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

I love chapati with meat or any pasta dish

This post is also available in: French

Idil is personally and professionally invested in providing optimal learning and development environments for children. In her early learning environments, she advocated for inclusion and representation. Her primary goal as an educator is to ensure all children, regardless of race, ability, gender or other differences, are in environments that make them feel safe, wanted, valued and respected.

Idil holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts – Educational Studies and Digital Technology (specializing in early childhood development), a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and is currently pursuing a Master of Professional Education in Equity, Diversity and Social Justice. She is also CPR, First Aid & AED certified and holds a certificate in Autism 101.

“Relationships between families and the centres where children are involved are critical to the children’s success. I admire the way ACT recognizes and values relationships with children and families. Additionally, I love being a part of a multidisciplinary team. Being a part of the first cohort for the Entry to School program has been a unique experience that has allowed me to pick up different skills and strategies from an amazing group of professionals from various fields.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be? 

Maldives

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Pizza

What’s your favourite holiday?

Eid

This post is also available in: French

Isabelle is a bilingual Supervised Behavioural Clinician and Entry to School Supervisor.

In her years working in the field, Isabelle has developed a passion for working on life skills with her clients and supporting their caregivers through parent coaching. Isabelle also enjoys providing training and supervision to further the careers of her colleagues in the field of ABA.

Isabelle is a certified trampoline, gymnastics and freestyle ski instructor. Isabelle coached competitive and recreational trampoline for 13 years.

The multidisciplinary team and variety of services offered through ACT attracted my attention. I think it’s so valuable to have professionals experienced in different areas coming together to support the needs of their clients. I was also pleased to discover that ACT offers French services as this is quite limited in the community and adds an extra barrier for caregivers when seeking out services.

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be? 
Texas, I grew up there and would take any opportunity to go back!

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?
An iguana

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Brisket, I’ll always be a bbq girl at heart.

This post is also available in: French

Jane is a Registered Speech-Language Pathologist in Ontario and a member of SAC. She has experience providing a wide variety of services to individuals across their lifespan. In her first year of practice, she provided speech, language, feeding, swallowing, social and play therapy services in English and French to individuals and their families from 1 to 100. Jane has experience with multilingual families and finding the optimal approach to treatment to meet her clients’ specific needs.

Jane holds a Bachelor of Arts from the Université de Moncton and a Master of Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Maine. She is also nearing completion of PLAY Project certification. Jane is passionate about international travel, solidarity and friendship. She has previously traveled, studied and worked abroad, and looks forward to the opportunity to do so again.

“ACT Learning Centre provides extensive opportunities for training, professional growth and diversified practice, within the realm of autism services. It is ACT’s commitment to providing quality services for its clients and diverse opportunities for its staff which make me a proud employee.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Portugal and China are next on my list!

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?

A fox

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Ice cream

This post is also available in: French

Jenna is a certified PLAY Consultant and has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and a certificate in Autism and Behavioural Science. Jenna has extensive experience providing assessment and intervention to autistic children, both from a behavioural and developmental lens. As the manager for PLAY Project and Entry to School, Jenna combines her clinical and administrative skills to support the team to provide the best possible services for our clients. On the weekends, you can find Jenna walking her 95lb lab mix named Goose, or playing board games with friends.

“When I was offered a job in the PLAY Project at ACT, I decided to take the leap and learn more about developmental approaches for supporting children with Autism. The team at ACT is so supportive and encouraging in every aspect and a positive work environment is so important to me. I’m glad I made the change!”

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?
Elephant, hands down.

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Pizza

What’s your favourite holiday?
Christmas

This post is also available in: French

Jennifer is a Registered Early Childhood Educator with more than 20 years of experience working with children. She is very passionate about her work with children and truly enjoys being a part of their development. Jen loves the outdoors and glamping at her trailer. You can always find her swimming or boating with family and friends.

“I love the entire program at ACT. The children, families, staff and management make it very easy to come to work every day.”

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Hersheys Eggies

What’s your favourite holiday?

Christmas

Are you a morning person or a night-owl?

Morning person

This post is also available in: French

Jessica is a Speech-Language Pathologist with over ten years of experience providing services in the areas of early language, articulation/phonology, motor speech, fluency, alternative and augmentative communication, ASD, and social language skills. She has previously worked in an ASD therapy centre, as a consultant to rural area schools, and within private practice. Working with children is her passion. Jessica finds great joy supporting children (and their families) in developing their play and communication skills within meaningful play-based activities as well as daily routines.

She holds a Bachelor of Health Sciences with a Minor in Linguistics from the University of Ottawa and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from McGill University. She is certified in PECS Level 1 and 2, Hanen More Than Words, PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills), and has additional training in AAC, motor speech (DTTC), as well as coursework on Natural Language Acquisition. She has also completed the certification course in PLAY Project.

“I love working in the Entry to School Program supporting children to learn the communication skills they need for school and to be able to communicate with anyone anywhere”.

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I really love exploring and visiting Canada! I’d love to visit New Zealand and Ireland someday.

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Indian food

What’s your favourite holiday?
Christmas (everyone is filled with kindness and good cheer).

This post is also available in: French

Julie Tessier is a registered Occupational Therapist (OT) with the province of Ontario. She graduated from the University of Ottawa with a Bachelor’s degree in Human Kinetics and completed a Master of Health Science in Occupational Therapy in 2019. She provides Occupational Therapy services in both English and French. In addition to providing assessments, interventions and consultations in private practice, Julie is also part of many projects such as a registered PLAY consultant for the Play Project, a member of the supervisory team in the Entry to School (ETS) Program and a mentor for the Secret Agent Society (SAS) research project.

Julie’s love of helping kids has led her to acquire several years of experience working alongside experienced pediatric therapists. For the past eight years, she has worked with children on the autism spectrum in different settings. She has skillfully assisted with integration in day cares, has developed and led social groups as well as summer camps, provided respite services to families. She continues to pursue her passion as an Occupational Therapist with a special focus on working with children of all ages.

Julie aspires to help children gain independence in their everyday activities as well as work in an interdisciplinary setting. Julie provides quality interventions that emphasize promoting the child’s motivation and engagement within activities of their daily life. Julie is highly motivated to grow and develop as a therapist as she and completed various trainings.

In her spare time, Julie loves to travel, spend time outdoors, participate in various sports and being surrounded with her friends and family.

If you could travel to anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Iceland

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Stir fry

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?

Goat

This post is also available in: French

Kate is a Registered Behaviour Analyst and has been working with children with autism and additional learning needs since 2015. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Human Kinetics from St. Francis Xavier University in 2019, and a earned a Master of Applied Disability Studies with a specialization in Applied Behaviour Analysis at Brock University, in 2021.

Kate has a passion for supporting learners in the development of life-long skills that are meaningful to them and their families. Kate has worked in diverse settings including schools, daycares, camps, interdisciplinary centres and in the community. She has experience as an instructor therapist, lead instructor therapist, and senior therapist.

Kate’s interest in the field of ABA began in high school where she worked at ABA summer camps and learned the significance of building fun into skill acquisition. She brings this value into her learners’ programming by promoting a safe, happy, relaxed and engaging environment, where optimal learning can take place.

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Portugal and Sicily are at the top of my list!

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?

An alpaca

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Pasta

This post is also available in: French

Kathryn holds a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy and has over 20 years of training and experience in pediatrics working in both school-based and community care. She has extensive experience addressing fine and gross motor development concerns, handwriting/written output, sensory processing and self-regulation.

In her spare time, Kathryn enjoys many outdoor activities including gardening, cross-country skiing and adventurous travel with her family.

“I am excited about being a part of the dynamic Entry to School Program team assisting each client in achieving their meaningful goals by working collaboratively with the children, their families, and their school team.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be? 

I would love to paddle the Nahanni River in the Northwest Territories.

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?

A chameleon

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Definitely rice!

This post is also available in: French

Katie is the Site Manager of the Entry to School program in Kanata. She began her career working as a Behaviour Therapist providing 1:1 ABA therapy. She has also worked as an Educational Assistant with the OCDSB in a special education school where she found her passion in working in a group setting, supporting the needs of different students, and working closely with other professionals.

She has worked at ACT Learning Centre since 2021, where she began as Lead Classroom Facilitator with the very first cohort of Entry to School and is proud to see the program continue to grow and reach more families. Katie’s dream is to open a forest school for autistic children and adults, but for now, she is invested in the success of every child who enters her classrooms!

“Being a part of the first cohort of the Entry to School program was an opportunity I could not pass up. Working in a multi-disciplinary setting sounded like a great chance for growing my professional skills. This program is unique as it allows me to combine my passion for behaviour intervention while in a more natural setting.”

If you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?

Chimpanzee

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Baked beans on toast

What’s your favourite holiday?

Halloween

This post is also available in: French

Katie is a Registered Social Worker. She graduated from the Social Service Worker program at Northern College and continued her education through Algoma University to earn her Bachelor of Social Work degree this past spring. Before moving to Ottawa, Katie was a respite worker for 2 years in Timmins working with children aged 4-18 with diverse backgrounds.

This post is also available in: French