Deborah Doherty has completed both a Psychology degree from the University of Western Ontario, and an Honours Social Work degree from York University, and she is presently working toward M.Ed., BCBA. Deborah is the Founder of the Joy of Learning Centre, which was established in 2007. She is an experienced in-home therapist, and registered Social Worker, who had a dream for a centre-based school for exceptional children to attend, where they would ultimately become successful within the community. With this dream and her love for children, she started one of the first IBI centre-based schools for children with autism and special needs. Deborah’s vision and philosophy for the Joy of Learning Centre supports natural environment learning through combined ABA, and Verbal Behaviour techniques. The Joy of Learning Centre creates an enriched environment so that all exceptional children are able to learn, grow and reach their goals for success.
As Director of the Joy of Learning Centre, Deborah brings with her a background of 20 years in the field of working with developmental challenges, Resource Teacher, Educational Assistant, Test Consultant, Direct Instruction, ABA, and Verbal Behaviour techniques. Deborah displays enthusiasm when working with children at various levels. She also plays an active role in all of her student’s programs and daily routines at the school.
Deborah, her husband and their three children, all share the same passion and dedication to help exceptional children, and give back actively within the community. The Doherty family volunteer their time almost every weekend providing free sports programs to the autism community and their families, as well as organizing fundraising initiatives to benefit the not-for-profit corporation Rainbows of Joy.
What began as in-home therapy to several children with autism, and a dream – today has become a successful growing school with a strong team, bringing about incredible results.