Mission
Empower individuals to thrive in their personal, emotional, and physical development by fostering growth in communication, socialization, and comprehensive learning. We aim to deliver a process grounded in clarity, strategy, and inclusivity, making our services rich in practical, accessible information for everyone we serve.
Values
Integrity
Uphold honesty and ethical practices in all interactions.
Social Responsibility
Commit to contributing positively to our communities.
Respect
Embrace diversity and treat every individual with dignity.
Collaboration
Foster teamwork to deliver exceptional service.
Innovation
Drive continuous improvement and adopt new approaches.
Client-Centricity
Prioritize the unique needs of each client, tailoring our services for meaningful impact.
Vision
To be a forward-thinking leader recognized for exceptional contributions to inclusive communication and social development.
We aim to excel in modern, evidence-based therapeutic techniques that empower diverse individuals across all communication backgrounds.
Our approach integrates the organic and emotional facets of speech and language, embracing each individual’s unique abilities to foster meaningful, authentic connections in an evolving, multicultural world.
Meet The Speak Squad Team
Meet The Speak Squad Therapists
Aline Garcia Lopes
Occupational Therapy Assistant - OTA
A skilled occupational therapy professional with extensive experience supporting children with neurological, sensory and behavioural needs. Areas of Expertise: ▪ Child Neurology ▪ Sensory Integration ▪ Motor Development ▪ Behavioural and Functional Skills Support Education & Credentials: ▪ Specialization in Child Neurology ▪ Bobath Infant Program Training (Baby and Advanced Courses) ▪ International Certification in Ayres Sensory Integration Experience: With over 20 years of experience in child rehabilitation, neurological and sensory disorders, ASD and ADHD, Aline has supported children across clinical and community settings. Her practice integrates evidence-based approaches that promote functional development, independence and meaningful participation in daily routines. Languages: ▪ Portuguese ▪ English
Alice Kasem
Psychotherapist, B.Sc. (PSY), RP (Qualifying)
A warm and client-centred psychotherapist providing trauma-informed support for individuals navigating emotional, relational and life-transition challenges. Areas of Expertise: ▪ Trauma ▪ Anxiety ▪ Depression ▪ Relationship Challenges ▪ Emotional Regulation ▪ Life Transitions ▪ Grief and Loss ▪ Stress and Burnout ▪ Personal Growth and Self-Exploration Education & Credentials: ▪ Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University ▪ Honours Bachelor of Science, University of Toronto Experience: Alice offers a grounded and supportive therapeutic space where clients can explore their experiences with safety and clarity. Her practice integrates trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches to enhance emotional processing, self-understanding and meaningful personal growth. With a background in both health sciences and psychotherapy, she works collaboratively with clients as they navigate challenges, deepen self-awareness and move toward their goals. Languages: ▪ English ▪ Arabic
Amanda Soares
Speech Language Pathologist Assistant - SLPA
A dedicated speech-language pathologist assistant specializing in Voice and Communication Disorders in Brazil. Areas of Expertise: • Voice Disorders • Child Communication Development • Learning Disorders and Language Delays • Support for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) • Neonatal and Maternal Speech-Language Pathology Education and Credentials: • Bachelor's degree in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from UNESP – São Paulo State University (2010) - Brazil • Voice Specialist from CEV – Center for Voice Studies (2015) - Brazil • Published research articles in the area of Learning and Voice during undergraduate and graduate studies • Currently pursuing a Master's degree in Management • Participation in academic scientific research at the University Experience: Extensive clinical experience with children with learning and language disorders, as well as children on the Autism Spectrum. Hospital experience includes work in Neonatal Intensive Care Units and maternity wards, supporting newborns and mothers with breastfeeding difficulties, and also in the area of hearing health. Experience with adults and children with voice disorders, with a particular focus on teachers. Languages: Portuguese, English
Amelie Reis
Volunteer – Portuguese Language Classes
highly dedicated future psychologist passionate about supporting children’s learning and communication. Amelie is eager to gain early experience in developmental and educational settings. She brings enthusiasm, empathy, and a strong interest in learning from experienced professionals while contributing to engaging, supportive environments for kids. Areas of Interest: • Child development and psychology • Language learning support • Educational activities and communication skills • Emotional and social growth in early years Education: • Undergraduate studies in Psychology (in progress) Languages: English Portuguese
Barbara Picone
Speech Language Pathologist Assistant - SLPA
A seasoned speech therapy professional with over 20 years of experience in clinical and hospital settings. She specializes in articulation therapy, oral motor disorders, and helps clients improve their communication skills under SLP supervision. Areas of Expertise: • Children's Communication Development • Social Skills Enhancement • Clinical Speech Therapy • Hospital-Based Therapy • Food Selectivity Education & Credentials: • Degree in Speech Therapy, Federal University of Pernambuco, Brazil • Canadian Professional Certifications Experience: Over two decades of clinical experience, specializing in children's communication and social skills development. Languages: Portuguese, English
Bushra Hafeez
OTA/L
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
A skilled occupational therapy assistant with comprehensive experience across all age groups. Areas of Expertise: • Autism Support • ADHD Management • Sensory and Behavioral Issues • Feeding Therapy • Stroke Recovery • Aging-Related Support Education & Credentials: • Bachelor's in Health Science (2014) • Occupational Therapy Assistant Certification, Mercy University, New York (2019) Experience: Specializes in client-centered approaches, helping individuals achieve independence in daily activities through effective strategies and caregiver education. Languages: English, Urdu
Daphyma Sylvia Arokiya Raj
MASLP Registered Speech-Language Pathologist (CASLPO #8757)
A registered Speech-Language Pathologist with over 7 years of experience in assessment and treatment of communication challenges across pediatric and adult populations. Takes a holistic approach to therapy, recognizing individual strengths to create personalized intervention plans. Areas of Expertise: • Autism Spectrum Disorder • Developmental Language Disorders • Cognitive Communication Disorders • Articulation and Phonological Disorders • Voice and Fluency Disorders •Neurogenic Language Disorders in Adults •Pediatric Communication Challenges • Motor Speech Difficulties Education & Credentials: • Master of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology (MASLP) • Registered with College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO #8757) • 7+ years of clinical experience • Extensive experience in assessment and treatment of diverse communication disorders • Specialized expertise in both pediatric and adult populations
Ester Chow
Occupational Therapist OT
Areas of Expertise: Daily Living Skills School-Based Occupations Fine Motor Skills Development Handwriting and Printing Skills Education & Credentials: Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, McMaster University • Bachelor of Health Sciences (Child Health), McMaster University Experience: A collaborative occupational therapist who applies a team-based approach and a strong foundation in inquiry and problem-based learning. She works with individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults, to support meaningful engagement in daily activities and promote independence. Languages: English, Cantonese
Esther Kamara
M.Sc., SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
A dedicated and compassionate Speech-Language Pathologist with experience in the assessment and treatment of communication challenges in children and adults. Esther provides evidence-based and person-centred care that fosters meaningful progress in speech, language, and overall communication skills. Areas of Expertise: • Early language development • Developmental language delays • Literacy and phonological awareness • Motor speech disorders • Voice and fluency disorders • Articulation and phonological disorders Education and Credentials: • Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology • Registered with the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO) Experience: Esther works with clients across clinical, school, and community settings, supporting both children and adults in improving communication and confidence. Her approach integrates family collaboration and practical strategies to enhance daily interactions. Languages: English
Erika Boragno
ABA therapist
An empathetic and patient ABA instructor therapist who is dedicated to improving child behaviour outcomes. Areas of Expertise: • Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) • Autism Support • Emotional Regulation Strategies • Behaviour Intervention Education and Credentials: • Applied Behaviour Analysis Certification • Final year of Honours B.A. in Psychology, Brock University • Trained in emotional distress and crisis de-escalation strategies Experience: Specializes in implementing treatment programs using a client-centred approach to children with diverse needs, including ASD and ADHD. Erika’s practice is rooted in empathy and in empowering children to achieve their goals. Languages: English, Spanish, and intermediate French
Fabiana Moraes
Registered Social Service Worker |
Psychotherapist
A mental health professional specializing in Portuguese-language counselling and psychotherapy. Areas of Expertise: • Adult Psychotherapy • Couple Counselling • Teen Support • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) • Psychodrama and Sociodrama Education & Credentials: • Clinical Psychology Degree (2002) • Psychodrama and Sociodrama Specialization • CBT Certification • Registered Social Service Worker (Ontario) Experience: Extensive experience in psychotherapy services for adults, couples, and teenagers, with a focus on the Brazilian and Portuguese-speaking community. Languages: Portuguese, English
Harlee Purvey
Speech Language Pathologist
A dedicated and motivated Speech-Language Pathologist with a strong educational background and experience in assessing and treating communication challenges. Harlee provides client-centred care tailored to each individual’s unique needs, with a focus on fostering meaningful progress and functional communication. Areas of Expertise: Articulation and Speech Sound Disorders Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Early Language Development Fluency/Stuttering Literacy and Phonological Awareness Neurogenic Language Disorders Education and Credentials: Master of Clinical Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders (Speech-Language Pathology) Registered with the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO) Experience: Experience supporting individuals of all ages, including preschoolers, school-aged children, and adults, in both in-person and virtual settings Collaborative practice with school teams, parents, and multidisciplinary professionals to support clients.
Jinha (Pauline) Jeon
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA, CPO)
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA, CPO) dedicated to individualized, evidence-based behavioural support. Areas of Expertise: • Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) • Functional Behaviour Assessments • Behaviour Support & Safety Plans • Developmental Disabilities • Mediator & Caregiver Training • Community Inclusion & Independence Education & Credentials: • Master of Science in Applied Behaviour Analysis – Purdue Global University • Post-Graduate Diploma in Behavioural Science Technology – George Brown College • Honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Art History – University of Toronto • Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) • Registered Behaviour Analyst (Ontario – CPO) Experience: Pauline has over seven years of experience delivering ABA services to individuals with diverse developmental diagnoses. She specializes in designing behaviour intervention plans tailored to each client’s unique needs, while ensuring autonomy, dignity, and inclusion remain at the core of every program. Her approach includes functional behaviour assessments and hands-on training for caregivers and professionals to foster consistent and respectful care. Languages: English
Karen Ebert
Educational Specialist
An experienced educator specializing in literacy development and storytelling techniques. Areas of Expertise: • Early Literacy Development • Storytelling Techniques • Primary Education • Reading and Writing Skills Education & Credentials: • Bachelor's Degree in Education, University of São Paulo • Post-Graduate Certificate in Storytelling, A Casa Tombada Experience: 12 years of teaching experience in both public and private schools, specializing in early literacy development. Languages: Portuguese, English
Lauretta Bastianpillai
M.A., BCBA, RBA
Board Certified Behaviour Analyst – Clinical Supervisor
Lauretta Bastianpillai is a Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA) and Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) with extensive experience providing and supervising Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) services for children and youth with autism and related developmental disorders. As the Clinical Supervisor at DLK Training and Consultation Inc., Lauretta oversees all aspects of assessment, treatment planning, and program implementation for clients receiving 1:1 and group-based ABA services. She specializes in developing individualized, evidence-based intervention programs that target communication, daily living skills, emotional regulation, and behaviour reduction through data-driven decision-making. Her responsibilities include conducting functional behaviour assessments, supervising instructor and senior therapists, providing parent and caregiver training, and ensuring that all clinical programs meet ethical standards and best practices in behaviour analysis. Lauretta is equally dedicated to staff development and mentorship, guiding team members to strengthen clinical reasoning, confidence, and consistency in treatment delivery. With a compassionate and family-centred approach, she collaborates closely with caregivers, schools, and multidisciplinary teams to foster meaningful, lasting change that supports each child’s independence and quality of life. Areas of Expertise: • Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) • Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) • Emotional Regulation Strategies • Parent and Caregiver Training • Staff Supervision and Clinical Mentorship Education and Credentials: • Master of Arts in Applied Behaviour Analysis • Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) • Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA) Languages: English
Lina Rodrigues
Occupational Therapy Assistant - OTA
A knowledgeable and empathetic occupational therapy assistant specializing in early childhood development, behavioural support, and neurodevelopmental strategies for children with ASD and ADHD. Areas of Expertise: ▪ Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) ▪ Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) ▪ Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) ▪ Early Stimulation & Neurodevelopment ▪ Pediatric Neurostimulation Techniques ▪ Emotional Regulation & Sensory Integration ▪ Educational and Behavioural Interventions Education & Credentials: ▪ Degree in Occupational Therapy – Universidad del Valle, Colombia (2019) ▪ Specialized Training in ABA Therapy ▪ Continued Education in Early Childhood Neurodevelopment & Inclusive Education Experience: Extensive experience providing individualized therapy plans for children with neurodevelopmental and behavioural challenges. Skilled in applying ABA, sensory strategies, and neurodevelopmental techniques to improve daily functioning, academic performance, and emotional well-being. Languages: Spanish, English
Nadia R. Prando
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
A holistic psychotherapist combining clinical psychology with energy and spiritual techniques. Areas of Expertise: • Child and Family Therapy • Adult Counselling • Holistic Treatment Approaches • Preventive Mental Health • Energy and Spiritual Techniques Education & Credentials: • Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology • Bachelor's Degree in Psychology • Reiki Certification Level II • Electromagnetic Balancing Technique Practitioner • Access Bars Practitioner and Facilitator • Mindfulness Self-Compassion Training • Applied Mindfulness Meditation Certification Experience: 15 years of experience treating children, families, and adults, focusing on preventive care and holistic treatment approaches. Languages: English, Portuguese
Naiana A. Jacob Vieira
Speech Language Pathologist Assistant - SLPA
A dedicated and compassionate Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA) with over 15 years of experience. Areas of Expertise: • Oral Motor Skills & Feeding Support • Speech & Language Development (Early Childhood and School-Age) • Articulation & Phonological Awareness • Expressive and Receptive Language Disorders • Multidisciplinary Collaboration Education & Credentials: • Bachelor's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology • Postgraduate Degree in Hospital Speech-Language Pathology Experience: Naiana brings a strong clinical background in both pediatric and adult care, with a focus on enhancing communication skills and quality of life. Her practice is grounded in individualized, evidence-based strategies that support speech, language, and cognitive development. She works closely with SLPs, families, and educators to ensure meaningful progress for each client. Languages: Portuguese English
Natasha Culibrk
Registered Social Worker
A compassionate mental health professional specializing in adult psychotherapy and music-based emotional support, using a trauma-informed, person-centred approach to care. Areas of Expertise: ▪ Adult Psychotherapy ▪ Music-based Interventions for Emotional Regulation ▪ Trauma-Informed, Person-Centred Care ▪ Mindfulness & Relaxation Techniques ▪ Social-Emotional Skill Building ▪ Inclusive and Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice Education & Credentials: ▪ Master of Social Work Graduate Degree (2024) ▪ Registered Social Worker – Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) ▪ Musician and Composer specializing in Neoclassical Piano Experience: Experience providing counselling and emotional support across diverse populations, with a growing focus on children and youth with communication and developmental needs. Skilled in integrating music and evidence-based practices to promote regulation, connection, and self-expression. Languages: English
Peter Medeiros
M.Sc. SLP
Speech Language Pathologist Reg.
CASLPO 5764
A registered Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in personalized treatment approaches for both children and adults. Areas of Expertise: • Articulation and Speech Sound Disorders • Language Disorders/Delays • Corporate Speech-Language Pathology • Stuttering and Literacy • Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) • Accent Modification • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Education & Credentials: • Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology • Registered with CASLPO • Wilson Structure Literacy Program Certification • PECS Level 1 Certification • Clinical Cognitive Communication Disorders Course Experience: For more than 15 years of extensive experience in both pediatric and adult speech therapy, combining clinical expertise with creative approaches. Languages: English, Portuguese
Rebecca Hart
Speech Language Pathologist Assistant – SLPA
A dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant working on a broad range of therapies under SLP supervision. Areas of Expertise: • Speech-Sound Disorders • Child Language Development • Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) • Autism Spectrum Disorder • Literacy Development Education & Credentials: • Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics – University of Toronto • Post-Graduate Certificate in Communicative Disorders Assistant Program – Georgian College • Post-Graduate Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language – University of Toronto Experience: CDA experience in an on-campus clinic, plus internships specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorders and Speech-Sound Disorders. Languages: English
Regiane Kanso
Speech Language Pathologist Assistant - SLPA
A highly experienced Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant with over 25 years in communication and social skills development, working under SLP supervision. Areas of Expertise: • Communication Development • Social Skills Enhancement • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) • Neurodevelopmental Disorders • Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) • Social Thinking Programs Education & Credentials: • Degree in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (Brazil) • Canadian Professional Certifications Experience: Extensive experience across Canada (Alberta, Nova Scotia, and Ontario) since 2005, working in both educational and clinical settings. Languages: Portuguese, English
Telma Santos
Speech Language Pathologist Assistant - SLPA
A Brazilian-trained speech-language professional with over two decades of clinical experience, committed to supporting clients in their communication and swallowing needs. Passionate about voice rehabilitation, myofunctional therapy, and evidence-based care that respects each client’s unique journey. Areas of Expertise: ▪ Speech and Language Rehabilitation ▪ Myofunctional Therapy ▪ Voice Therapy ▪ Dysphagia Management Education & Credentials: ▪ Ph.D. in Speech-Language Pathology – Brazil ▪ Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology – Brazil ▪ Researcher at the Voice and Resonance Lab – University of Toronto (2018) Experience: Extensive background in clinical practice, both in Brazil and Canada. Works under SLP supervision to deliver personalized and respectful therapy support, with focus on adult and paediatric populations. Languages: English, Portuguese (Brazil)