Meet Our Support Team
Owner, Clinical Director, BCBA, RBA (Ont)
Lead Senior Therapist, BCBA, RBA (Ont)
Lead Senior Therapist, BCBA, RBA (Ont)
Amelia Hone is a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) and Registered Behaviour Analyst with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals, families, and professionals within the neurodivergent community. She holds a post-secondary diploma in Autism and Behavioural Sciences from George Brown College in Toronto, Canada; a Master o
Amelia Hone is a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) and Registered Behaviour Analyst with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals, families, and professionals within the neurodivergent community. She holds a post-secondary diploma in Autism and Behavioural Sciences from George Brown College in Toronto, Canada; a Master of Science in Applied Behaviour Analysis from Trinity College Dublin in Ireland; and a Master’s Certificate in Special Education from Brandman University in California.
As Clinical Director, Amelia oversees the development, delivery, and continuous improvement of all clinical services. She leads with a strong commitment to ethical practice, professional integrity, and trauma-informed care. Amelia works closely with her clinical team to ensure that every client receives individualized, evidence-based supports that respect autonomy, honour lived experience, and promote long-term well-being.
Amelia is deeply passionate about empowering neurodivergent individuals to define success on their own terms. Her work focuses on removing educational and employment barriers, strengthening community inclusion, and cultivating environments where neurodivergent strengths are recognized, nurtured, and celebrated. She strives to model “bold curiosity and intentional courage” in her leadership—encouraging innovation, advocacy, and compassion across all levels of service.
Lead Senior Therapist, BCBA, RBA (Ont)
Lead Senior Therapist, BCBA, RBA (Ont)
Lead Senior Therapist, BCBA, RBA (Ont)
Rachel Forler (she/her) is a Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA) and a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) with over nine years of experience providing and supervising Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) services in both educational and home settings. She holds a Master’s degree in Applied Disability Studies from an ABAI-accredited gradu
Rachel Forler (she/her) is a Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA) and a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) with over nine years of experience providing and supervising Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) services in both educational and home settings. She holds a Master’s degree in Applied Disability Studies from an ABAI-accredited graduate program and is registered with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO). Her approach to ABA is compassionate, collaborative, and deeply rooted in client-centered, assent-based care. Rachel specializes in working with the neurodivergent community of all ages, including individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and has a strong foundation in early intervention and functional life skill development. Her programming focuses on meaningful, lifelong skills such as communication (including AAC), flexibility and tolerance-building, emotional regulation, and social/play development, along with daily living skills like toileting and self-help. She is passionate about supporting clients and their families in ways that honor their autonomy, dignity, and voice. Additionally, she works closely with caregivers and teams to create individualized, goal-oriented plans that foster growth across all areas of life. Whether coaching families, consulting in classrooms, or providing one-on-one support, Rachel strives to create safe, empowering spaces where each individual can thrive and feel truly heard.
Senior Therapist, BCBA, RBA (Ont)
Lead Senior Therapist, BCBA, RBA (Ont)
Senior Therapist, BCBA, RBA (Ont)
Rachel Blake has over 10 years of experience supporting children and youth with a wide range of needs. She began her career as a Communicative Disorders Assistant, where her passion for helping children grow their communication and life skills first took shape. She went on to complete her Master’s degree at Western University and after qu
Rachel Blake has over 10 years of experience supporting children and youth with a wide range of needs. She began her career as a Communicative Disorders Assistant, where her passion for helping children grow their communication and life skills first took shape. She went on to complete her Master’s degree at Western University and after qualifying she now works as a BCBA. For 4 years Rachel supported adults, teens, and young children in both community and school settings in Ireland, and since returning to Canada, she has continued working closely with kids and teens in the Kingston, Ontario area. She is known for her warm, compassionate approach and believes in meeting each child where they are while supporting families every step of the way.
Canadian Certified Counsellor
Lead Senior Therapist, BCBA, RBA (Ont)
Senior Therapist, BCBA, RBA (Ont)
Karen Burgess is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with a Master’s in Psychology, Bachelor of Education, and Special Education Certification, bringing a wealth of experience from her background as a special education teacher to support children, youth, adults, and families in navigating life's complexities. She provides compassionate,
Karen Burgess is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with a Master’s in Psychology, Bachelor of Education, and Special Education Certification, bringing a wealth of experience from her background as a special education teacher to support children, youth, adults, and families in navigating life's complexities. She provides compassionate, strengths-focused counselling tailored to address anxiety, stress, trauma, life transitions, emotional regulation, neurodiversity including ADHD and learning differences, educational challenges, burnout, and self-esteem or identity exploration. Drawing on her dual expertise in psychology and education, Karen blends insightful therapeutic strategies with practical, evidence-informed approaches such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, trauma-informed care, and solution-focused methods, always customizing support to honor each client's unique story, autonomy, and pace. Passionate about empowering the neurodivergent community and those facing educational barriers, she creates safe, non-judgmental spaces where individuals feel truly seen, heard, and celebrated for their strengths, fostering resilience and long-term well-being through collaborative, client-centered care. With virtual sessions available Canada-wide, Karen is committed to walking alongside clients and families, helping them build meaningful skills and connections that promote growth and inclusion. If you're seeking an empathetic, experienced professional who understands the intersection of emotional and educational needs, she invites you to connect and begin where you are.
Registered Clinical Psychologist
Registered Clinical Psychologist
Registered Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Bob Carey is a Registered Clinical Psychologist who earned his Ph.D. from Western University in 1982. He has extensive experience in both public service and private practice, providing consultation to Children’s Aid Societies, community living organizations, family counselling agencies, and clinical teams supporting individuals with
Dr. Bob Carey is a Registered Clinical Psychologist who earned his Ph.D. from Western University in 1982. He has extensive experience in both public service and private practice, providing consultation to Children’s Aid Societies, community living organizations, family counselling agencies, and clinical teams supporting individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, and dual diagnoses. Dr. Carey has taught at Western University, supervised graduate students and psychology professionals, and held leadership roles including President of the Ontario Behavioural Association. An award-winning researcher and educator, he is the co-developer of the Positive Systems Approach (PSA), a holistic, evidence-based framework for understanding and supporting complex behaviour. He is co-author of Managing Disruptive Behaviours with a Positive Systems Approach and What If It’s Not Just the Behaviour?, which extends PSA principles to family settings.
Registered Psychotherapist
Registered Clinical Psychologist
Registered Clinical Psychologist
M. Terry Kirkpatrick is a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario with over four decades of experience supporting individuals, families, and communities. He holds a Master of Education from the University of Toronto (OISE) and has worked extensively in developmental services, child welfare, autism treatment, and community-based care. Terry
M. Terry Kirkpatrick is a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario with over four decades of experience supporting individuals, families, and communities. He holds a Master of Education from the University of Toronto (OISE) and has worked extensively in developmental services, child welfare, autism treatment, and community-based care. Terry has led major initiatives supporting the transition from institutional to community living, managed multidisciplinary service teams, and developed specialized programs for people with complex needs. Alongside his public service career, he has maintained a private practice through the L.E.A.R.N. Centre, providing counseling and psychoeducational services. Terry is also a published author and educator, with a longstanding commitment to ethical, evidence-based care and to empowering families to support neurodivergent individuals in living meaningful, fulfilling lives.
Occupational Therapist
Registered Clinical Psychologist
Occupational Therapist
Tanja Skanes has nearly 30 years of experience supporting children and adults with a wide range of needs. Raised in the Ottawa area, she completed an undergraduate degree in Biology at the University of Guelph, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from McGill University. After graduating, she returned to Ottawa, where
Tanja Skanes has nearly 30 years of experience supporting children and adults with a wide range of needs. Raised in the Ottawa area, she completed an undergraduate degree in Biology at the University of Guelph, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from McGill University. After graduating, she returned to Ottawa, where she has spent many years working with both adults and children in community settings.
Tanja is passionate about helping individuals maximize their independence and function within their everyday environments. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys travelling and spending time with her family at the cottage during the summer months.
Supervised Instructor
Registered Clinical Psychologist
Occupational Therapist
Abderrahman Abdellaoui, a recent graduate of the Health Sciences program at the University of Ottawa, would like to share his experiences. He’s had the chance to work closely with children and youth in both clinical and recreational settings, including supporting pediatric patients at CHEO and spending summers at a camp focused on creatin
Abderrahman Abdellaoui, a recent graduate of the Health Sciences program at the University of Ottawa, would like to share his experiences. He’s had the chance to work closely with children and youth in both clinical and recreational settings, including supporting pediatric patients at CHEO and spending summers at a camp focused on creating safe, inclusive spaces for kids. His passion for working with the neurodivergent community drives him, as every day presents a new opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate progress, no matter how big or small. As an aspiring Board Certified Behaviour Analyst, building trust and forming genuine relationships is what motivates him most in this work, and he feels grateful to be part of a team that shares those values while utilizing Applied Behaviour Analysis techniques.
Administrative Assistant, Supervised Instructor
Administrative Assistant, Supervised Instructor
Administrative Assistant, Supervised Instructor
Laura Marshall holds a BA (Honours) in Psychology with a Minor in Health Studies from Queen's University. After working as a Supervised Instructor with Keepsake Educational Services (KES) for over a year, she expanded her role to include Administrative Assistant while completing her MSc in Occupational Therapy in England.
Laura brings exp
Laura Marshall holds a BA (Honours) in Psychology with a Minor in Health Studies from Queen's University. After working as a Supervised Instructor with Keepsake Educational Services (KES) for over a year, she expanded her role to include Administrative Assistant while completing her MSc in Occupational Therapy in England.
Laura brings experience across research, clinical, educational, and community settings, with a strong focus on supporting neurodivergent individuals through neuro-affirming, evidence-based care. She also served as a Program Coordinator with the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board, where she managed summer school programs and acted as the primary liaison for staff, students, and families.
Although she is completing her graduate studies abroad, Laura is excited to remain an active member of the KES team. She continues to support families remotely whenever possible and is committed to delivering compassionate, client-centred care that empowers individuals and families to achieve their goals.
Supervised Instructor
Administrative Assistant, Supervised Instructor
Administrative Assistant, Supervised Instructor
Shaina Dunne has completed four years of psychology at the University of Ottawa and is currently studying Child and Youth Care at Algonquin College. Shaina is continuously expanding her knowledge and deepening her commitment to supporting the wellbeing of others, her long-term goal being to pursue a Master’s in Social Work. Driven by a g
Shaina Dunne has completed four years of psychology at the University of Ottawa and is currently studying Child and Youth Care at Algonquin College. Shaina is continuously expanding her knowledge and deepening her commitment to supporting the wellbeing of others, her long-term goal being to pursue a Master’s in Social Work. Driven by a genuine passion for helping others, Shaina prioritizes building trust and forming genuine, authentic, and meaningful relationships with the individuals and families she works with. She bases her work on the belief that connection is at the heart of effective support, and she approaches every interaction with empathy, respect, and curiosity. Shaina has a passion for helping everyone but particularly supporting individuals within the neurodivergent community, and she believes that it is deeply important that every success—big or small—is celebrated. Shaina strives to create environments where people feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are. She is passionate about using trauma-informed, holistic, and client-centered care. Shaina is committed to working alongside children and families, honouring their strengths, and empowering them to navigate challenges with confidence and resilience.
Supervised Instructor
Administrative Assistant, Supervised Instructor
Respite & Tutoring Support
Chaarlie Monette joins the team at Keepsake Educational Services as a highly experienced professional with over a decade of dedicated service in direct community delivery and program coordination. Currently in the final year of the Social Service Worker (SSW) program at Algonquin College, she integrates advanced academic training with a
Chaarlie Monette joins the team at Keepsake Educational Services as a highly experienced professional with over a decade of dedicated service in direct community delivery and program coordination. Currently in the final year of the Social Service Worker (SSW) program at Algonquin College, she integrates advanced academic training with a strong and diverse frontline background.
Her professional journey includes serving as an Educational Assistant with the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board, where she collaborated on Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and supported student development within inclusive classroom environments. In addition, her extensive experience as a Child and Youth Worker in group home and wellness settings has equipped her with deep expertise in managing sensitive caseloads, de-escalating volatile situations, and ensuring the psychological safety of youth and families.
What truly sets Chaarlie apart is her “superpower”: two decades of lived experience as a mother of four. Having personally navigated the journey of raising a child on the autism spectrum, she brings a powerful firsthand perspective that bridges clinical goals with the realities of daily family life. Her approach is rooted in empathy, advocacy, and a deep belief that meaningful, neuroaffirming support begins with meeting people exactly where they are.
Certified in Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) and Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI), Chaarlie prioritizes emotional regulation and relationship-building in every session. Whether supporting learners in their home, school, or community, her mission is to celebrate every success—big or small—and empower individuals to navigate challenges with confidence, dignity, and resilience.
Respite & Tutoring Support
Administrative Assistant, Supervised Instructor
Respite & Tutoring Support
Julian Ribeiro is currently a student at the University of Ottawa completing his Bachelor of Human Kinetics with a specialization in Education and Coaching. He brings several years of coaching and mentorship experience working with youth in both academic and athletic settings. Through these experiences, Julian has developed a strong abil
Julian Ribeiro is currently a student at the University of Ottawa completing his Bachelor of Human Kinetics with a specialization in Education and Coaching. He brings several years of coaching and mentorship experience working with youth in both academic and athletic settings. Through these experiences, Julian has developed a strong ability to connect with students, adapt to different learning styles, and foster positive, encouraging environments where students feel comfortable asking questions and challenging themselves.
Julian has coached a variety of youth programs, including volleyball and sprint canoe/kayak, where he focused not only on skill development and performance, but also on confidence-building, teamwork, and personal growth. His experience working with children and adolescents has strengthened his communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills, allowing him to support students with patience, understanding, and motivation.
As a student of human movement, learning, and development, Julian understands the importance of individualized support and recognizes that every student learns differently. He believes that building confidence is just as important as developing academic skills, and he strives to help students grow in both areas. Whether assisting with challenging concepts, improving study habits, or helping students stay motivated, Julian aims to create a supportive environment where students can succeed at their own pace.
Meet Our Support Team Contd.
Summer Student/Supervised Instructor
Summer Student/Supervised Instructor
Summer Student/Supervised Instructor
Charlotte Bittle is currently completing her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and is passionate about supporting neurodivergent youth through compassionate, neuroaffirming, and client-centered care. She has experience working with neurodivergent youth and is committed to creating safe, supportive environments where individuals and familie
Charlotte Bittle is currently completing her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and is passionate about supporting neurodivergent youth through compassionate, neuroaffirming, and client-centered care. She has experience working with neurodivergent youth and is committed to creating safe, supportive environments where individuals and families feel heard, respected, and understood. Charlotte values building genuine relationships grounded in empathy, trust, and open communication while supporting individuals through challenges.
Through her academic studies and hands-on experience, Charlotte has developed knowledge in Applied Behaviour Analysis, child development, mental health, and inclusive support practices. She is particularly interested in supporting emotional regulation, social skill development, and helping individuals build confidence while recognizing and celebrating each person’s unique strengths and successes.
Charlotte is passionate about mental health advocacy and strongly believes in the importance of creating environments where individuals feel safe, empowered, and supported. She has a strong interest in behaviour therapy, occupational therapy, and holistic approaches to care, and hopes to pursue a related Master’s degree in the future. She is excited to continue learning and growing with Keepsake Educational Services while supporting children, youth, and families within the community.
Supervised Instructor
Summer Student/Supervised Instructor
Summer Student/Supervised Instructor
Renata Cruz holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and a postgraduate specialization in Psychomotricity, with a focus on child development and neurorehabilitation. She has over three years of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, particularly children within the neurodivergent community, in both clin
Renata Cruz holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and a postgraduate specialization in Psychomotricity, with a focus on child development and neurorehabilitation. She has over three years of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, particularly children within the neurodivergent community, in both clinical and community-based settings.
Renata is passionate about supporting children as they develop meaningful life skills, build confidence, foster independence, and reach their individual goals. She is equally committed to empowering adolescents and adults to strengthen their independence, develop practical skills, and enhance their quality of life. She believes that every individual deserves individualized, compassionate, and strengths-based support, and she strives to create environments where people feel safe, respected, and empowered to learn and grow.
Her approach is rooted in building trusting relationships, collaborating closely with families and caregivers, and providing client-centered, neuroaffirming, and evidence-informed care. Renata values celebrating every achievement—big or small—and believes that meaningful progress comes from recognizing each individual's unique strengths, interests, and potential. She is passionate about continuing to expand her knowledge in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and is committed to lifelong learning and professional development. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a Master’s degree to further enhance the quality of care and support she provides to individuals and their families.
Supervised Instructor
Summer Student/Supervised Instructor
Supervised Instructor
Sadie Bowler is a graduate of Seneca College's Behavioural Sciences program with over seven years of experience supporting neurodivergent individuals across a variety of settings. Her background includes working in group homes, community-based programs, and day programs, where she has helped individuals build life skills, participate in
Sadie Bowler is a graduate of Seneca College's Behavioural Sciences program with over seven years of experience supporting neurodivergent individuals across a variety of settings. Her background includes working in group homes, community-based programs, and day programs, where she has helped individuals build life skills, participate in recreational and community activities, and develop educational and vocational skills.
Sadie is committed to providing client-centred, trauma-informed support that respects each person's unique strengths, goals, and experiences. She believes meaningful support begins with listening and learning, recognizing that the individuals she supports are often her greatest teachers. She remains dedicated to ongoing professional growth while adapting her approach to meet the evolving needs of each person throughout their development.
Sadie prioritizes safety while fostering environments built on trust, dignity, and respect. Her extensive experience supporting individuals with a wide range of behavioural needs—from verbal escalation to complex behavioural crises—has equipped her with the skills to respond calmly, confidently, and compassionately.
Above all, Sadie believes that genuine connection is the foundation of effective support. While strategies and plans are valuable, lasting progress is built through authentic relationships, empathy, and a deep understanding of the individuals she serves.
Supervised Instructor
Summer Student/Supervised Instructor
Supervised Instructor
Ahmed Al- Samrei
Ahmed has several years of experience supporting children, youth, and adults with developmental disabilities in residential and community-based settings. He has worked in both frontline and supervisory roles, providing person-centred support focused on promoting independence, well-being, and quality of life.
His experien
Ahmed Al- Samrei
Ahmed has several years of experience supporting children, youth, and adults with developmental disabilities in residential and community-based settings. He has worked in both frontline and supervisory roles, providing person-centred support focused on promoting independence, well-being, and quality of life.
His experience includes implementing behaviour support strategies, developing Behaviour Support Plans (BSPs), supporting activities of daily living, crisis intervention, and collaborating with families and multidisciplinary teams. Fluent in both English and Arabic, Ahmed is passionate about creating inclusive, supportive environments and is excited to bring his skills and dedication to the Keepsake Educational Services team.