Jie Shi, B.A., M.A. (in progress)

Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Autism and Behavioural Science Certificate

Jie has been working in the field of Autism and Behavioural Sciences since 2012 and has supported children and adolescents with developmental disabilities within the home and within the public school system. Jie has a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and is currently working toward her Masters of Applied Disability Studies, with specialization in Applied Behaviour Analysis. Jie found her passion in working with children with autism when she was an undergraduate student. Jie loves playing the piano, painting, baking, and gardening in her spare time. She has two young kids, and she enjoys spending time with them.

Catherine Westlake, B.A.

Bachelor of Arts, Design

Catherine has received intensive training and supervision to become a supervised behavioural clinician. She has over 10 years of childcare experience and is a natural caregiver and educator. Catherine’s hard work ethic, soft demeanor and compassion has allowed her to succeed quickly in this field. Catherine has been trained as a Lead Therapist and is passionate about supporting children of all needs and backgrounds. It is this passion combined with her creativity and ability to absorb information that has made her a natural fit within the field of behaviour science, and form invaluable connections with the clients she works with.

Chantel Bonnay, B.A., M.PEd

Master of Professional Education, Applied Behaviour Analysis
Honors Bachelor of Arts, Youth and Children’s Studies
Graduate Diploma, Honors Recreation Therapy

Chantel has been providing therapeutic interventions for over 10 years and has a wealth of knowledge in behaviour therapy and autism spectrum disorders and other special needs. Prior to joining the Joy of Learning team, Chantel was providing in‐home one to one ABA services for children with ASD. She was also working for Hamilton and District Extend‐A‐Family. A program that provides social opportunities and friendships to children with special needs while providing respite to their families. Chantel was the ASD coordinator for this not‐for‐profit program, following families from the time of initial referral to intake. This role involved home visits, assessment, leading the family through the matching process and monitoring the match.

Justine Glynn, B.A.

Bachelor of Arts, Child and Youth Studies and Psychology

Justine is a professionally trained behavioural clinician with a degree in Child and Youth Studies & Psychology. Justine has over 10 years of experience working in pedagogy and with children with exceptionalities. As the previous manager of a childcare facility, Justine understands early childhood education and has experience implementing accommodations to set children up for success early on in their lives. Prior to her role within the daycare setting, Justine was working with the Peel Catholic School Board, providing one on one services for children with special needs. Justine enjoys working with children, knowing that she can be a part of their development and successes in life, by teaching new skills and helping them understand complex concepts all in a fun and motivating way.

Carolyn Habel, B.A.

Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Diploma of Therapeutic Recreation

Carolyn graduated from York University with her B.A. in Psychology and has a diploma in Therapeutic Recreation. Carolyn is a professionally trained behavioural clinician. Over the course of her studies Carolyn has worked and volunteered in many different settings such as Southside Learning Centre in Sydney, N.S. as a tutor/mentor for children with emotional, social and behavioural challenges, Cape Breton Regional Hospital as a recreation program assistant on a transitional care unit, and a Child Development Centre as a support staff. Carolyn’s passion and desire to continue to positively impact children with different abilities led her to work providing in-home ABA therapy to children with Autism and is happy to find a position at the Joy of Learning Centre where she can pursue her passion. Carolyn truly enjoys working with children and youth with all abilities and feels she can best utilize her skills, talent and compassion to teach as well as learn from children with Autism.

Daniella Lott, B.A.

Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Graduate Diploma in Autism and Behavioural Science

Daniella Lott graduated from the University of Guelph with her B.A., further pursuing her passion for children with a special need by attending Mohawk College for the Autism and Behavioural Science program.  When not working at the Joy of Learning Centre, Daniella actively volunteers her time with the autism community.  With a strong background in ABA, Verbal Behaviour techniques, and a certification in sign language, Daniella helps design and implement ABLLS programming and assessments.  It is Daniella’s calm energy and compassion that helps create positive learning experiences for her students.

Jessica Craveiro, B.A.

Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Certification in Direct Instruction

Jessica is a professionally trained behavioural clinician and has been working in the field of Autism Spectrum Disorders since 2006. She is trained in Basic Level Sign Language, Direct Instruction, and has worked with and collaborated with private schools such as Burlington Christian Academy, implementing ABA programs and transitional programs to best meet the needs of the students.  Jessica uses creative ways of teaching, making an exciting environment to enhance the learning of her students.  She also volunteers her time within the community providing one to one in social activities.

Jessica has grown up with a brother with special needs.  She feels that this has enlightened her, and helps her to be compassionate.  She believes that, “Each child is different with a special gift inside that is ready to be shown to the world”!