Meet the SPARK Durham Team:

AMBER
Occupational Therapist
Amber is a registered Occupational Therapist who completed her Master’s of Science in Occupational Therapy at Western University in London, Ontario. Amber has also obtained a Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Health Studies and a Minor in Psychology from Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario.
Amber has experience working with children of various ages in home, school, clinic, and children’s treatment centre environments. She enjoys working collaboratively with children and their families to address various occupational goals. Amber has experience leading pre-printing and printing groups. Amber is committed to professional development and continues to seek opportunities to expand her knowledge and skills.
In her spare time, Amber enjoys spending time with friends and family, being by the water and eating ice cream!

SARAH
Occupational Therapist
Sarah is a registered Occupational Therapist who completed her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at Western University in London, Ontario. She also has an Honors Bachelor of Arts, with a major in psychology from Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario.
Sarah has experience working with pre-school and school-aged children with diverse needs in a variety of settings including schools, in-home, and in a clinic setting to address a variety of occupation-focused goals. She is committed to understanding the strengths, needs, and interests of the client in order to provide child-led and family-centred care. Sarah is passionate about building on the strengths of the child and their family to support them in reaching their optimal potential. She is dedicated to being a life-long learner and continues to seek professional development opportunities and abide by evidence-based practices.
In her spare time, Sarah enjoys reading lots of books, discovering new podcasts to listen to, and spending time with family and friends.

KELLY
Occupational Therapist
Kelly is a registered Occupational Therapist who completed her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario in 2005. Prior to this, Kelly completed a Bachelor of Health Science degree at the University of Western Ontario in London.
Throughout her career, Kelly has worked as an Occupational Therapist with individuals with varied abilities across the lifespan (3-101 years of age), in a variety of clinical environments. As a member of an interprofessional team at a local not-for-profit organization, Kelly worked as a sole Occupational Therapist providing individualized and creative intervention programs for children with autism, ADHD, sensory processing challenges, learning disabilities and neuromuscular conditions. Kelly believes that all behaviour is a means of communication and that all children have inherent strengths. As a therapist, and member of a child’s circle of support, her job is to help uncover a child’s true potential.
Kelly has a passion for working with children and their families, within their own community environments. It is here that strategies and skills can be practiced and refined in a more natural way.

HARSHA
Occupational Therapist
Harsha is a registered Occupational Therapist who completed her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at University of Toronto. She also has an Honours Bachelor of Science in Exceptionality in Human Learning (Psychology).
Harsha has experience with handwriting interventions and with the Floortime approach. She is committed to lifelong learning and engaging in various professional development opportunities. She is passionate about bringing her training in mindfulness to her client interactions to ensure that she is truly present to her clients. She enjoys collaborating with her clients and their families on enabling engagement in meaningful activities.
In her spare time, Harsha enjoys reading, going for walks in nature, painting and spending time with family and friends.

SUVAATHY
Occupational Therapist
Suvaathy is a registered Occupational Therapist who completed her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. Suvaathy also has an Honours Bachelor of Medical Sciences with a Double Major in Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences and Pharmacology from Western University in London, Ontario.
Suvaathy has experience working with the pediatric population to enable engagement and participation in school, home, and clinic settings. She is committed to providing family-centred and equitable care that promotes independence, confidence, and resilience. Suvaathy values being a lifelong learner, follows evidence-based practices, and continues to seek professional development opportunities.
In her spare time, Suvaathy enjoys playing volleyball, completing jigsaw puzzles, and spending time with family and friends.

DEANNA
Occupational Therapist
Deanna is a registered occupational therapist who completed her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at University of Toronto. She has also obtained a Bachelor of Health Science degree with a minor in Forensic Psychology from Ontario Tech University.
Deanna has experience working with pre-school and school-aged children with diverse needs in clinic, in-home and children's learning centre settings to address various occupational goals. She also has experience leading printing groups. Deanna is passionate about using a strengths-based, child-led approach when working with children and their families in order to enable meaningful engagement. She is committed to being a life-long learner and continues to seek professional development opportunities to expand her knowledge and skills.
In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, going to concerts, and spending time with friends and family!

AGNES
Occupational Therapist
Agnes is a registered Occupational Therapist in Ontario and Hong Kong, who completed her Master in Occupational Therapy at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Agnes also has a Master of Arts in Developmental Psychology and Education from the University of Toronto, where she is currently working towards completing her PhD in Developmental Psychology and Education.
Agnes has experience working with children with diverse needs in different settings, such as specialized childcare centres and schools. She believes that each child is unique with their own set of strengths and abilities. She enjoys working collaboratively with families to develop goals and interventions that help support children to reach their best potential. Through delivering both individual and group-based therapy, Agnes is particularly experienced in addressing pre-printing skills and sensory processing difficulties. She is committed to lifelong learning and professional development.
In her spare time, Agnes enjoys jogging, trying new recipes, and spending time in nature.

APRIL
Occupational Therapist Assistant
April is an Occupational Therapy Assistant who graduated from Durham College from the Physiotherapy Assistant and Occupational Therapy Assistant program. She has experience working in both domains through work and college placements.
April has experience working with pre-school and school aged children on the autism spectrum carrying out occupational therapy services focusing on goal areas such as printing, fine and gross motor skills, play skills, etc. She is passionate with working with children and providing therapy that’s unique to their needs and interests. April focuses on providing family-centred care and celebrating all successes a child’s makes, while supporting them in each stage of their lives.
In her spare time, April enjoys spending time with friends and family, listening to music, and spending time out in nature!

JAMIE
Occupational Therapist Assistant
Jamie is an OTA who graduated from the Occupational Therapy Assistant and Physiotherapy Assistant program at Durham College and is currently working towards completing her Bachelor in Allied Health Sciences (BAHSc) at Ontario Tech University.
Jamie has experience working with pediatric and adolescent clients, including clients on the autism spectrum, delivering both occupational therapy and ABA therapy in learning centre and in-home environments. She has knowledge and experience addressing fine motor and gross motor skills and strives to make therapy a fun, enjoyable experience. She is passionate with working with children and providing therapy to help them meet their unique goals in a fun and interesting way.
In her spare time, Jamie enjoys baking, lifting weights, practicing yoga, or going on hikes with her dog Daisy!

ASHLEY
Occupational Therapist Assistant
Ashley is an Occupational Therapist Assistant who completed her Physiotherapist/Occupational Therapist Assistant Program at Sir Sanford Fleming College Diploma in Peterborough.
Ashley has experience working with school aged children in school and home settings including clients on the autism spectrum. Providing one on one support for fine and gross motor skills, self help/skills and self regulation techniques. She is enthusiastic about her work and wants all children to have the skills to reach their goals!
In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her two daughters and being active outdoors.

DANIELLE
Communicative Disorders Assistant
Danielle is a Communicative Disorders Assistant (CDA) with an Honours Bachelor of Arts with Distinction from the University of Toronto. Danielle also completed a Specialist in Psycholinguistics with a Minor in Psychology and holds a Communicative Disorders Assistant Graduate Certificate from Durham College.
Danielle has always been passionate about working with children and has experience providing services to both children and adults that have exceptional needs. She has experience delivering therapy in the areas of expressive and receptive language, social communication, articulation, and alternative and augmentative communication.
In her spare time, Danielle enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, and hiking!

KATIE
Communicative Disorders Assistant
Katie is a Communicative Disorders Assistant (CDA) with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from Trent University. Katie has also completed a Communicative Disorders Assistant Graduate Certificate from Durham College and a Post Graduate Certificate in Corporate Communications and Public Relations from Centennial College.
Katie has experience working with preschool and school age children in both learning centres and schools. She has worked alongside educators and interdisciplinary teams to enhance child development in all areas, with a focus on social and language skills. Katie has always had a strong passion for communication and helping children succeed.
In her spare time, Katie enjoys spending time with her family, her new puppy, and doing yoga!

KENNEDY
Board Certified Behaviour Analyst
Kennedy is a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. She graduated from Brock University with a Master of Applied Disability Studies Specializing in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). Before completing her Masters, Kennedy received a Bachelor of Science Honours Specialization in Psychology from Western University and a Post Graduate Certificate in Autism and Behavioural Science received from St. Clair College.
Kennedy entered the field of ABA because of her desire to help better the lives and support participation in all areas of life for children with developmental challenges and their families. She has always had a strong passion for working with children and helping them reach their full potential using the learning styles that suit their needs best. She has worked with a variety of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Witnessing their progress and growth in various areas, including communication, daily living, academic, and social skills, have cemented her passion for this field of work.
In Kennedy’s spare time she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, going for walks with her dogs, and trying new foods.

EBYAN
Senior Therapist
Ebyan is a Registered Behaviour Technician with several years’ experience as an ABA therapist. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Toronto in 2016, and has done additional coursework in Autism and Behaviour Science at Algonquin College. She is currently pursuing a Master of Education in Developmental Psychology and Education at the University of Toronto, and working towards obtaining her BCBA certification.
Ebyan has many years’ experience providing ABA services to children and adolescents in both 1:1 and small group capacities, and in a variety of settings including schools, ABA clinics, homes, and childcare centres. Ebyan has also provided training and consultative services for parents, school staff, and childcare staff on the implementation of various ABA strategies, behaviour intervention protocols, and assessments. Ebyan is passionate about supporting and being an advocate for children and families with special needs.
In her spare time, Ebyan enjoys reading, spending time with loved ones, and trying new food.

RUHI
Senior Therapist
Ruhi is a Senior Behaviour Therapist currently pursuing a Master of Professional Education at Western University. She earned her Honours Bachelor of Science from the University of Toronto Scarborough in 2020. Her passion for mental health led her to pursue a graduate certificate in Autism and Behaviour Sciences at Durham College where she quickly fell in love with applied behaviour analysis.
Ruhi has experience providing ABA services in an intensive behaviour intervention clinic as well as within her client’s homes. She values play-based techniques as well as strategies from positive psychology to bring about meaningful behaviours among her clients.
When she’s not studying, Ruhi enjoys watching suspense movies, shopping, and café-hopping!

JOCELYNNE
Social Worker
Jocelynne is a Registered Social Worker who completed her Master’s of Social Work at Wilfrid Laurier University. Jocelynne obtained an Early Childhood Diploma from Centennial College.
Jocelynne has worked with children for more than 15 years in various settings. She has worked with young children, youth, and families. Her experience involves working with a variety of family dynamics, special needs, mental health, abuse, and trauma. Jocelynne believes in the holistic approach and in working together.
Jocelynne enjoys spending time with her family and her 2 dogs in her spare time.

KAITLIN
Social Worker
Kaitlin is a Registered Social Worker with a Master in Social Work and Bachelor of Sociology from York University. She has also completed additional coursework in Applied Behaviour Analysis trainings through her work with the school board.
Kaitlin has many years of experience working with families, youth, and children. She possesses a great depth of knowledge and skills supporting children and youth with emotional, behavioural, and educational challenges. Kaitlin also has extensive experience working with social skill development with individuals and groups. Kaitlin possesses a desire and willingness to continue to learn through ongoing professional development opportunities.
In her spare time, Kaitlin enjoys spending time with her family, including her daughter and son! She loves dogs and enjoys being outdoors - especially taking her black lab on many hikes.

TESS
Social Worker
Tess is a Registered Social Worker who has completed her Master’s in social work at McMaster University and a Bachelor of Social Work at York University. She is also currently working towards completing a Child and Youth Mental Health certificate at Wilfred Laurier University.
Tess has spent her formative years working with youth in a residential setting and has gained a thorough and holistic understanding of the needs and foundations required to build therapeutic relationships. While completing her Master’s, Tess conducted research which focused on street-involved youth who use substances and how they access different housing and shelter services. She has a passion for working with youth and children, especially through transitional stages in their lives and is excited to continue to expand her knowledge.
In her spare time, Tess enjoys hikes with her family pup, cooking new recipes and spending time with her family and friends.

EMILY
Social Worker
Emily is a Registered Social Worker who completed her Master in Social Work degree at the University of Toronto in the “Children and their Families” stream of study. Emily completed her Bachelor of Social Work degree at Trent University.
Emily has a passion for working with children and youth, and has experience working with children in a variety of settings including live-in treatment, schools, recreational youth centres and mental health agencies. She holds knowledge and skills focusing on supporting children to gain emotional regulation skills, navigate relationships, and cope with anxiety. Emily does her best to incorporate fun in a therapeutic setting by optimizing on children’s interests, strengths and skills. In her future endeavours she hopes to continue her learnings in trauma-informed practice and meditations for youth.
In her spare time, Emily enjoys going on walks with her dog, reading books, and trying new fitness classes.

SARA
Director of Operations
Sara, a registered Occupational Therapist in Ontario, graduated with a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Western Ontario in 2012.
Since then, Sara has worked extensively with children of various ages, with a wide array of abilities, in several different settings (including home, community, school, hospital, and daycare). She has delivered occupational therapy services at children's treatment centres in the preschool, sensory integration, and school health/early learning programs. Sara also has experience working as a Care Coordinator at a world-renowned pediatric hospital. She has completed several workshops and continuing education courses over the course of her career. Sara enjoys working collaboratively with clients and their families, while supporting them in achieving their goals.
On a personal level, Sara is the proud parent of three daughters, including a set of energetic twins!

CAITLIN
Director of Programs
Caitlin is a Registered Social Worker with a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Social Work through McMaster University. She also has completed additional coursework in Autism and Behavioural Science at Seneca College and graduate-level courses through the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work at the University of Toronto.
Caitlin has extensive experience working with children and their families in various community contexts, including autism programming, special needs resourcing, education, and child welfare. She continually seeks growth through professional development opportunities, and strives to practice from an anti-oppressive perspective and a strengths-based approach.
In her spare time, Caitlin enjoys spending time with her son and daughters, swimming, and playing piano and guitar.