Three things get me up in the morning: my zoo (5 furry animals), my husband, and my job! I love what I do and do what I love! I am a registered Occupational Therapist with over 15 years of experience specializing in Pediatrics. I integrate a relational, neuro-affirming, and family-centered approach to support children in the areas of feeding, play and relationships, sensory processing, self-regulation, behaviour, and motor development.
In my work with children and families, I approach therapy with curiosity and compassion, honouring the unique story, culture, and strengths each family brings. By tuning into the “felt sense” of safety and connection, I support children in discovering their abilities, learning new skills, and building resilience in ways that are meaningful to them.
Therapy sessions are designed to meet children where they are, respecting their nervous systems and empowering families with tools and strategies that feel doable in daily life.
I use a trauma-informed, sensory-based lens to understand the “why” behind behaviours. I believe that every behaviour is communication and that creating safety in relationships is the foundation for growth. At the heart of my work is the belief that learning happens within relationships - when compassion meets therapy, and when curiosity opens the door to understanding.
Additional Courses & Training
Feeding & Mealtimes:
- AEIOU: An Integrated Approach To Pediatric Feeding
- Beckman Oral Motor Assessment and Intervention
- The Get Permission Approach to Sensory Mealtime Challenges
- CAN-EAT Approach; Using medical, motor, & therapy strategies in pediatric feeding
- Picky Eaters Versus Problem Feeders - The Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Approach to Feeding
- Mealtime Miseries: Management of Complex Feeding Issues; Trans-disciplinary Effective Assessment and Treatment (TR-eat) model
- Appetite: How to Foster Hunger & Wean Kids from Tube Feedings
- Feeding Therapy: It’s Not Just about Swallowing
Sensory Processing, Regulation & Behaviour:
- Safe and Sound Protocol; Foundational Certification
- Decoding Autism; From Understanding Neurobiology to Choosing Intervention Strategies
- Introduction & Advanced SCERTS Training
- The Alert Program; How Does Your Engine Run?
- Becoming a Behavioural Detective: Understanding and Supporting Complex Behaviour
- The Art of Therapy and Connection: Masterclass
- Exploring and Applying Psycho-Sensory Interventions and Trauma-Informed Practice
- Interoception: The 8th Sense
Motor Development:
- Handwriting Without Tears
- CO-OP II – The Basics
There are a great many things that fill my bucket, but my heart is fullest when I get to share my time and energy with others. I love spending time with my wife, my friends, and my little furballs. I’m endlessly curious, always eager to learn and grow, whether that means exploring new places, picking up new hobbies, or diving into my ever-expanding list of eclectic interests. Since 2010, I’ve also had the privilege of serving in the CAF Army Reserves. As someone with ADHD, I have a personal appreciation for the unique perspectives and strengths that come with neurodiversity, which continually shapes how I connect with others.
Professionally, I spent most of my adult life working in Addictions and Mental Health with Alberta Health Services, primarily supporting adults with addictions, mental health challenges, and disabilities. Over the past five years, I’ve had the pleasure of working with children of all ages, expanding my understanding and passion for supporting individuals and families across the lifespan. I thrive in collaborative environments, believing that every team member’s unique specialty is a source of insight, not silos of care. This collaborative framework is at the core of how I work with families and children. Achieving common goals together is at the heart of my practice.
My educational journey began with a BA focused on socio-cultural anthropology, and I’ve been a lifelong learner ever since. I’m currently working toward a master’s degree in counselling psychology and continually building my toolkit through ongoing coursework and certifications. Over the years I have completed professional training in behaviour modification, non-violent crisis intervention, suicide prevention and management, foundational Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy Skills training, and Motivational Interviewing,
My approach to behaviour is rooted in being trauma-informed, client-centered, strengths-based, and multidisciplinary, always with a focus on human needs and positive psychology. I believe in meeting clients where they’re at, empowering individuals and families, and bridging theory with practical, real-world strategies. Collaboration with other professionals, families, caregivers, and children is fundamental to my work. I strive to ensure that any changes we make together are not just effective in the moment, but positive and sustainable for the long term. Above all, I aim to create a warm, welcoming, and neurodiversity-affirming space where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered to grow.
