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All Hands In

Meet the Team

At WonderTree, we are a multidisciplinary team dedicated to helping families and youth achieve their goals by providing wrap around mental health and developmental support. All WonderTree team members have had a vulnerable sector criminal background check completed and are registered with their relevant regulatory college.

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............................................................ I love working in a multidisciplinary team, with schools, and collaboratively with families. WonderTree is my opportunity to bring those passions together and provide fast, evidence-based care to families in Ontario. I want to help you help your child. Whether that be through an assessment to explore a potential diagnosis, working with you as a parent, your family, or your child in therapy, or consulting with your child’s clinical team here at WonderTree or their school. I provide integrative treatment, drawing from CBT, EFFT/EFT, ERP, and attachment based therapies to children and families. I support youth presenting with various needs, including autistic youth, those with ADHD, learning disabilities, mood, emotion dysregulation, or behavioural concerns. My early career focused on the mental health and well-being of autistic youth and their families, and this is still an area of passion I carry forward today. I have a special clinical interest in abuse prevention and sexual health and relationship education in neurodivergent youth. Personally, I am a mother to two young children living in the Caledon region. I also have personal experience navigating IEPs, testing, and child advocacy. *Dr. Fardella currently works at the Dufferin-Peel Catholic School Board (DPCDSB), and is unable to see students currently registered at DPCDSB as this is a conflict of interest.

Dr. Michelle Fardella, C. Psych
Clinical/School Psychologist
Director

(she/her)

Smiley

.......................................................... I am a clinician scientist and enjoy bringing my research to everyday applications. I have focused my clinical and research interests on assessment and interventions for neurodivergent children and youth, including individual and group-based cognitive behavioural therapy, as well as mindfulness and acceptance-based supports. At WonderTree, I will be providing therapy to youth and families, including individual and group therapy, targeting needs such as emotion regulation, behavioural concerns, attention needs, mood, and anxiety. Outside of WonderTree, I work at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in the Azrieli Adult Neurodevelopmental Centre. Using a community-based participatory research lens, I study interventions that support family wellbeing and the implementation of evidence-based interventions in community settings. Personally I am a mother of 2 living in the Greater Toronto Area, and enjoy doing activities outdoors as a family. *Johanna currently works at CAMH, and is unable to see youth currently receiving service through the Azrieli Adult Neurodevelopmental Centre, as this is a conflict of interest.

Dr. Johanna Lake, C. Psych
Clinical Psychologist
(she/her)

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....................................................... I have had a diverse and adventurous career path as an Occupational Therapist, resulting in a passion for supporting each individual’s vision and potential for their best life. I am a passionate advocate for Neuroaffirming, inclusive, person-centred, trauma-informed, strength-based and wholistic interventions. This path has led me to a deeper understanding and commitment to finding the best in each person to harness for growth, healing and development. My unique life-path has gifted me with the knowledge and experience in development, behavior and mental health, having devoted my career to supporting both children and adults with developmental, learning, mental health and complex/chronic diagnoses. Areas of child development such as motor skills, school inclusion, social skills, executive functioning, independent living skills, sensory processing and communication skills are also areas of specialization for me. I have specialized skills and training in Alternative and Augmentative communication (AAC), Feeding and swallowing/Picky eating, and Cognitive Rehabilitation. I have spent over 2 decades specializing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD), Learning disabilities and other executive functioning challenges. As a parent of 2 Transgender, Neurodivergent children (1 young adult, 1 teen), I come from an empathetic and accepting perspective. Taking a family and person-focused, gender and Neuro-affirming, collaborative approach I always employ a positive, fun attitude to building skills and resilience with each individual. Kim is a fully licensed and autonomous Occupational Therapist registered in Alberta, Canada. The respective Occupational Therapy colleges from Alberta and Ontario permit cross province virtual practice. While she is permitted to provide therapy in Ontario, for OAP requirements she receives supervision from Robin Garner, who is an Ontario registered Occupational Therapist. This ensures accessibility of services for all of our Ontario families.

Kim Hanson, OT
Occupational Therapist
(she/her)

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.......................................................... With over 30 years of experience, tempered and honed by each family I have served, I embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Clients appreciate my heartfelt enthusiasm and creativity. I truly enjoy engaging with children and youth of all ages. I live and work out of the box. As a result, I am passionate about empowering you as parents with the tools you need to work towards meaningful goals with your child. I am a published researcher, adjunct professor, clinical educator, and have extensive training and experience in the field. I support families with the development of skills in the areas of social-pragmatics from play to conversations, self-regulation, speech (sensory-motor, articulation, phonology), language, fluency, literacy, and augmentative alternative communication skills. Assessments are flexible and insightful. Treatment sessions are uniquely tailored to each client’s specific needs based on their interests. My goal is to be your child’s favourite time to look forward to. Personally, I enjoy an active country lifestyle including photography, working with glass, tracking and re-building cars, scuba diving, upcycling furniture, and I love my furry friends – Dana, Violet and Gryffie – whom you will surely meet during our virtual sessions with me.

Jill Clements-Baartman, M.A., M.H.Sc., SLP[c],
Speech and Language Pathologist
(she/her)

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.......................................................... I am a certified Special Education teacher with over 10 years of experience directly working in Special Education classrooms. I also have a background in Speech and Communication Sciences as well as Autism and Behavioural Science. I have worked in a variety of classroom settings, supporting a diverse group of learners, many who are neurodivergent and/or with complex needs. I have a passion for supporting students in their individual learning journey, as well as helping parents navigate the complexities of Special Education. Simplifying this process for parents in order to meet their child's needs and future goals is something I keep at the forefront of all my work. I always aim to give learners and their families the tools they need to succeed with a collaborative approach. In my spare time you can find me at the cottage, enjoying the outdoors with my family.

Shaleen Cuffe, OCT
Educational Consultant/Teacher
(she/her)

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.......................................................... I am extremely passionate about working with young children of various abilities, alongside their families, to create comprehensive developmental plans that will set their children towards long term success. I am a long time Registered Early Childhood Educator, and have worked in Kindergarten classrooms within Peel District School Board, for just under ten years. I have a diploma in Early Childhood Education, and I have recently obtained my Honours Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Studies in order to further my knowledge on how to best support children during their most formative years. I look forward to meeting and working with you and your child.

Julia Storto, RECE
Psychometrist
(she/her)

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.......................................................... I am passionate about helping families of complex children, especially when they have a hard time accessing services. Systemic barriers to accessing care in the public sector are a frequent obstacle for the patients in my care. My experiences as a neuropsychologist working with complex profiles instilled a dream of creating a space in the private realm to address high needs with flexible and evidence-based solutions. At WonderTree, I provide assessments and treatment for children and adolescents with ASD, ADHD, learning disabilities, anxiety, mood disorders, emotion dysregulation, behavioral concerns, genetic disorders, and neurological concerns* (e.g.,epilepsy, stroke, and genetic disorders). My treatment approach is integrative, drawing from CBT, DBT, and EFT. Outside of the clinic, I engage in teaching as an Assistant Clinical Professor at McMaster University, and I am a member of the McMaster Autism Research Team. Personally, I am a mother to three young children, with personal experience navigating IEPs, testing, and child advocacy as a parent. *I do not provide medicolegal/MVA assessments

Dr. Stephanie Lavoie, C. Psych
Clinical/Neuro Psychologist
Director

(she/her)

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....................................................... Relationships and community are key to our well-being. This includes our relationships with others, as well as ourselves. My goal is to help you and your child(ren) navigate the complexities of these relationships. As a trauma-informed and collaborative Social Worker, I provide therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, as well as parenting support for caregivers. I collaborate directly with individuals and families and specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, and symptoms of trauma/PTSD. My approach varies based on where the individual is at, and what their needs are. I have worked in children and youth inpatient services, school boards, addiction services, and crisis services and have extensive experience working one on one with medically complex children and their families. With two young children of my own I strive for balance by spending time outdoors with my family and friends, reading, exercising and catching up on the latest movies and tv shows.

Jessica Kennedy, MSW, RSW
Social Worker
(she/her)

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.......................................................... My passion and dedication to patient advocacy and supporting neurodivergent youth grew during my years of working as a nurse practitioner and nurse at the Hospital for Sick Children and McMaster Children’s Hospital. I understand the barriers that children and families face on a daily basis when trying to access care, particularly when they have multiple diagnoses. At WonderTree, my goal is to help families receive quick and personalized support to help their child with ADHD reach their full potential. I understand that youth with ADHd can be complex and support youth with ADHD that may also have additional diagnoses/concerns (e.g., Autism, Seizures, Mental Health concerns, etc). My role within this team is to work with the youth and family on medication management and symptom monitoring. Choosing to start or stop taking medication can feel like an overwhelming decision, and I am here to help families make an informed choice. I believe in a holistic approach to care, that includes educational, behavioural, emotional, and medical support. Outside of the clinic, I engage in teaching at McMaster University School of Nursing and the University of Toronto Lawerence S. Bloomberg School of Nursing. I am also a mother to three young children, and personally understand how challenging it can be to navigate medical care for your own children. *I also work at McMaster Children’s Hospital and cannot see clients involved with the paediatric neurology team.

Cynthia Sloan-Birbeck, NP-Paediatrics 
Nurse Practitioner
(she/her)

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.......................................................... I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to meaningfully engage with their community and build skills for independence. I love fostering and helping to develop independent living skills as a way to build self-confidence and empowerment. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults to help them gain skills to meet their own independent living potential. I utilize my years of experience from working in schools, camps, live in support, and community service positions to be able to support the whole person across multiple environments (community integration, life skills, employment/volunteering, personal care, functional academic skills, and recreational skills). I enjoy working closely with the WonderTree psychology team to help achieve these goals. I provide individual adaptive skill/daily living skill evaluations and skill building planning. I also provide parent/ caregiver consultation and implementation support regarding their child’s community and independent living needs.

Trish Iaizzo, DSW
Developmental Service Worker
(she/her)

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.......................................................... As an Ontario Certified Teacher with additional qualification in Special Education and Cooperative Education, and a background as a Youth Job Coach, I am passionate about empowering youth to unlock their full potential. My mission is to instill confidence and growth in youth guiding them towards a future filled with endless possibilities. By fostering a dynamic learning environment tailored to their unique needs, I strive to equip them with the practical skills and knowledge essential for success in day-to-day life and work environments. My approach is rooted in the belief that every individual possesses unique talents and strengths waiting to be discovered and cultivated. Together, we will embark on a journey of growth, exploration and self discovery.

Abbie Cameron, OCT
Job Coach/Executive Functioning Coach
(she/her)

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.......................................................... My passion for psychology began in middle school on career day, the idea of being a person that children and young people could rely on to share their experiences with sounded wonderful to me. Over the years, this passion for helping children has grown even stronger. I have over 4 years of experience in a medical clinic setting which has exposed me to a diverse range of patients, and I am very adaptable to different personalities. I currently spend my free time volunteering at another psychology clinic doing group therapy sessions with children, and I have loved every session. I recently completed a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at York University – while I was at York, I spent my free time volunteering for tutoring and organizing psychology events around campus! I am in the process of applying to graduate school with the intention of one day becoming an amazing clinical psychologist just like the ones at WonderTree! Outside of work and school, I am playing video games with my two little sisters and walking my miniature dachshund (who is quite sassy). I look forward to helping families and children with efficiency, respect, and care at WonderTree!

Cristyana Farias
Family Coordinator

(she/her)

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.......................................................... I am a passionate and committed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist. I specialize in working across the lifespan through a developmental lens, with a particular focus on children, teens, and their parents. My approach is rooted in trauma-informed care and cultural safety, ensuring a supportive environment for individuals and their families. In my practice, I provide assessments and treatment for a range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, complex trauma, and emotional regulation difficulties. I believe in tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each individual, employing an integrative approach that draws from CBT, EFT/EFFT, brief psychodynamic therapy, and other relational approaches. I have experience working with children with ADHD, ASD, learning disabilities, and neurological disorders. Most importantly, I am a strong advocate for underserved populations and am deeply committed to promoting equity in the provision of psychological services. Outside of the clinic, I work as a neuropsychologist at McMaster Children's Hospital. In my free time, I find joy in reading, writing, playing music, musical theatre, and spending time with loved ones. *I do not provide medicolegal/MVA assessments.

Dr. Sanya Sagar, C. Psych
Clinical/Neuro Psychologist
(she/her)

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....................................................... I love working with and advocating for youth and their families. I do not believe in a one size fits all approach to care. I am passionate about utilizing evidence based therapy methods, while also applying an anti-oppressive practice lens and tailoring the support to fit the needs and identity of the individual and family. My approach often includes techniques from Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and attachment-focused therapy. I provide both child and adolescent therapy, as well as family therapy. I also help families access supports via consultations regarding community resources, referrals, financial supports (OAP, ACSD, SSAH, etc.), and also assist in the completion of funding applications. Outside of the clinic, I am a mother to three very active children! I understand the competing demands of raising children, supporting their education, and working. *Jessica currently works at the Dufferin-Peel Catholic School Board (DPCDSB) as a School Social Worker and Attendance Counsellor, and is unable to see students currently registered at DPCDSB as this is a conflict of interest.

Jessica Raimondo, MSW, RSW
Social Worker
(she/her)

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.......................................................... I have had the privilege of working with children with complex needs over the last 10 years working as a Nurse Practitioner. At WonderTree, I support youth and their families with medication management for mental health conditions such as anxiety, OCD, and depression. I have a passion for supporting gender diverse and BIPOC youth. I am committed to understanding the needs of each family with the goal of reducing symptoms and helping youth thrive. My career has afforded me the opportunity to work at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan, the Hospital for Sick Children, and McMaster Children’s hospital. I have also worked for the Children’s Aid Society and a residential facility for children with primary mental health needs. My varied healthcare experiences ultimately led me to my passion of working in children’s mental health. Outside of the clinic, I am an Associate Professor with the McMaster University School of Nursing. In addition, I am a mother to three young children with experience advocating and navigating Ontario’s complex medical system.

Lindsay Picard, NP-Paediatrics 
Nurse Practitioner
(she/her)

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.......................................................... I am passionate about helping young people develop the skills and strategies they need to thrive. For 18 years I have supported youth within the school and hospital settings to manage and succeed in their day-to-day challenges, and increase their independence. I have a graduate degree in Child and Youth Care, and use a collaborative, client-centered approach. At WonderTree, I provide Executive Functioning Coaching and supporting youth in group programming. I am truly honoured and privileged to be able to share a caring, non- judgemental and safe environment that enables my clients to make positive personal changes. *Nicole currently works at the Dufferin-Peel Catholic School Board (DPCDSB) as a Child and Youth Counsellor, and is unable to see students currently registered at DPCDSB as this is a conflict of interest.

Nicole Bailey, CYC
Executive Functioning Coach
(she/her)

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.......................................................... Kat is currently not taking on new clients. As an Ontario Certified Teacher and a Special Education Specialist, I have over 10 years of experience in meeting the educational needs of learners with ASD, ADHD, behavioural concerns, developmental delays, giftedness, intellectual delays, learning disabilities, mental health concerns, trauma, etc. I believe in equal access to education and I am particularly skilled in working with our most complex learners. I will work with your child’s strengths to develop their areas of need. As an executive functioning coach, I will support your family in creating rhythms and routines that can help your days feel less chaotic. I will support your neurodivergent child/teen to develop their time management, planning and organizing, task initiation and completion, and overall independence. I am neurodivergent and part of the LGTBQIA2S+ community. I am committed to identity-affirming, culturally relevant and responsive practice. Personally, I am a mom of three who loves the outdoors and all things creative.

Kat Hopkins, OCT
Executive Functioning Coach/Teacher
(she/her)

Contact Us

One of our family coordinators will return your call/e-mail within 2 business days. Our family coordinators will help determine which service provider would be the right fit and assist in scheduling your appointment.

905-425-9525

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