OBA Staff

KRISTINA CLEMMER
Administrator (Hespeler Campus)

Kristina was born to organize and has true passion (or some would say obsession) for post-it's, coloured pens, filing tabs and list making.
At Oak Bridge Academy she gets to apply her administrative and organizational skills to the day to day behind the scenes "juggling act" of administration at a busy school. Kristina ran a home childcare for 18 years before joining the team at OBA in 2022.
Her love for children and passion for organization help things run smoothly for the kiddo's, their families and staff and she loves every minute of it.

Heather McLaughlin
Administrator (Forward Campus)

CHRISTINA (Tina) CAMACHO CABRAL
B.HSc, M.ADS, R.B.A (Ont), BCBA - Clinical Coordinator (Forward Campus)

Christina is a Registered Behaviour Analyst with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario and a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst. She completed her Masters of Applied Disability Studies with a Specialization in ABA at Brock University after receiving her Bachelor's degree at Western University and completing the Autism and Behaviour Science Certificate program at Mohawk College. It was this first experience with ABA that established her motivation and compassion to support children and youth in reaching their fullest potential in every way that she could. Christina has been working in the field of ABA for the last 12 years in various settings and began at Oak Bridge Academy in 2018. She is passionate about supporting the students and their families at the Forward Campus of OBA, using evidence-based practices, to gain the skills and strategies needed to live a happy and autonomous life both at school and in the community.
Christina was born and raised in Cambridge and can be found spending her spare time with her husband and two children when she's not at work.

STEPHANIE ROMANO-PIDBEREZNY
B.Sc/M.PEd R.B.A.(Ont), BCBA - Clinical Coordinator (Hespeler Campus)

Stephanie is a Registered Behaviour Analyst with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario and a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst. She completed her Masters of Professional Education in Applied Behaviour Analysis through the University of Western Ontario and has worked in the field of ABA for 9-years in various capacities. Her dedication and compassion for encouraging students in their learning, growth and reaching their fullest potential continues to reinforce her passion for what she does through supporting OBA students. She thoroughly enjoys being a part of a school team that is passionate about providing effective support to students as they reach their goals, develop meaningful friendships and explore exciting ways of learning. Stephanie is excited to be supporting all of the students and their families at the Hespeler campus this year at OBA as a Clinical Coordinator designing school-wide, class-wide and individualized strategies to foster the success of our students. During her down time she enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, crocheting, and reading books.

HOLLY KANE
Senior Behaviour Therapist (Forward Campus)

Holly Kane is a registered behaviour therapist, who began supporting individuals with exceptionalities at a young age. She has completed her Masters of Applied Disability Studies, Specializing in Applied Behaviour Analysis at Brock University. Prior to this, Holly received her undergraduate degree from Wilfrid Laurier University in Social Work as well as her Postgraduate certificate in Autism Behavioural Science. In her free time she enjoys outdoor adventures, travelling and cuddling her dog.

RYAN LANE
Senior Behaviour Therapist (Hespeler Campus)

KAITLIN WEEKS
BA/M.S.Ed - Special Education Resource Teacher
Kaitlin graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with a Bachelor of Arts, with a focus in Psychology. She furthered her education by receiving her Masters in Science in Education at Medaille College in Amherst, New York. With over 13 years of experience in education, Kaitlin has worked as an occasional teacher for both the District School Board of Niagara and the Upper Grand District School Board. She may be a familiar face to some; Kaitlin previously worked at Oak Bridge Academy for three years as the Junior division teacher, before taking an extended maternity leave. Kaitlin has developed a deep commitment to supporting diverse learners and creating inclusive classroom environments where every student can thrive. Over the course of her career, Kaitlin has designed and implemented tailored educational strategies, collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, and championed the needs of students with varying abilities.
Her extensive background and passion for special education underscores a career devoted to making a meaningful difference in the lives of students and their families.

DEVON BELLMAN
B.Ed, B.Sc, Sp.Ed Specialist - Teacher - OSSD/Junior Grades (Forward Campus)

Devon completed Teacher's College and his Bachelor's of Education and Science at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario. After graduating, Devon moved to the United Kingdom for a year to teach high school science in the town of Nuneaton, Warwickshire. Since being back in Canada, Devon has been tutoring students with a variety of different exceptionalities and taking additional qualifications online. Devon enjoys to travel the world as much as he can and spends his free time playing sports, guitar, hiking, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends. Devon is excited to teach at Oak Bridge Academy and thankful to be a part of an amazing and supportive school community.

ANESSA SELCAGE
B.E.S - Instructor - OSSD/Junior Grades (Forward Campus)

Anessa graduated with a Bachelor of Environmental Studies from the University of Waterloo with a major in Geography and a minor in English. She completed a post-graduate certificate in Autism and Behavioural Science from Mohawk College and achieved her RBT designation in 2018. Anessa is a busy mom of two boys and loves reading, gardening, and playing with her dog in her spare time.

ERIN DOYLE
B.Ed - Teacher - Senior Grades (Forward Campus)

Erin graduated from Mount Saint Vincent University with a Advanced Bachelors Degree in Canadian Studies and English and furthered her education by graduating from Acadia University with a Bachelor of Education. Erin taught for four years for the Halifax Regional School Board in a variety of roles before moving to Kitchener in 2014. She has been working with students with exceptionalities for over 10 years and is proud to be a part of all of the incredible things that Oak Bridge Academy has accomplished since it opened its doors in 2018. When not in the classroom, Erin enjoys reading, spending time outdoors with her two children and husband and making trips to the east coast to visit family.

JACOB WYLDE
BA, B.Ed - Teacher - Senior Grades (Forward Campus)
Jacob is an educator with academic roots at York University and the University of Toronto. After completing his undergrad in History at York he went onto completing his Bachelor of Education at the University of Toronto. He then taught in the UK for a year. Since returning to Canada he has taught in a variety of school settings, but has an interest in growing in his career in special education. Outside of the classroom, he enjoys watching football, yoga, gardening, reading, and taking naps to recharge.

JEN MORROW
BA/M.Ed. - Teacher - Junior Grades (Hespeler Campus)

Jen has wanted to work with children for as long as she can remember. She started out her career path by completing the Early Childhood Education diploma at Mohawk College and it was there during her final practicum in a classroom, she knew that her place was meant to be in a classroom. From there, she studied at Wilfrid Laurier University, received her Bachelor of Arts, and moved on to Griffith University in Australia to complete her Masters of Education degree. Early into her teaching career, while working at her local school board, she was hired as a respite care worker for Lansdowne Children’s Centre. During that time, she discovered that she would love to mix both aspects of teaching and working with children with exceptionalities.
If you cannot find Jen in the classroom, she’s probably drinking coffee and trying to keep up with her 2 very energetic boys.

MARY BROOKS
B.Ed/M.Ed - Junior Teacher (Forward Campus)

Mary is excited to be a part of Oak Bridge Academy where the unique learning potential of each child is embraced. Mary completed her Special Care Counseling training at Vanier College in Montreal, Quebec.
During her time as a child care worker, she had the opportunity of working with children with a variety of exceptionalities. Combining her love for teaching and working with children; Mary went on to complete a Bachelor of Education, at the University of McGill. Mary has been a teacher for the past ten years in Montreal and is a member of the Ontario College of teachers. Her time as a teacher has reinforced her belief that each child learns best when they feel safe and secure. Mary has recently completed her Masters in Education at the University of LaSierra with an emphasis on administration and leadership.
Mary loves spending time with her husband and son, and enjoys cruising adventures to various parts of the world.

JAMIE COOK
B.Ed, BASc - Teacher - Junior Grades (Hespeler Campus)

Jamie knew she wanted to be a teacher from the time she was 7 years old. After working at inclusion camps for children with disabilities, she found her passion for education intertwined with her passion for supporting children with exceptionalities to reach their full potential. Jamie graduated from the University of Guelph with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Child, Youth, and Family studies, alongside certification as an Early Childhood Educator. Following this, Jamie attended Wilfrid Laurier University where she obtained her Bachelor of Education in the Primary/Junior Division. During this time, she did a teaching placement here at Oak Bridge Academy, and knew from day one that this was the place for her. Jamie is excited to be a part of the learning journey of the students of OBA. During her free time Jamie volunteers as a coach with the Cambridge Ice Hounds Special Hockey Club, Buddy League Canada, and Challenger Baseball. To relax, she loves to hang out with her yellow lab, Freddie.

CRYSTAL ABRAHAM
BA/M.Ed - Teacher - Primary Grades (Hespeler Campus)

It has been a dream of Crystal’s to teach since she was little, which is why she went on to get a B.A. in English and History from the University of Waterloo and a Masters of Science in Education from Niagara University. She didn’t go straight into teaching, however, because she fell in love with what was supposed to be a part-time job: being an Instructor Therapist. She worked as an IT for four years before she started facilitating social skills and academic groups for children with ASD at a local therapy centre; and then after that, she became the centre’s Office Manager. Crystal has completed Orton-Gillingham literacy training at the Foundations and Classroom Educator levels through the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners, as well as the Basics of Decoding and Spelling Instruction course through the International Dyslexia Association.
Crystal loves spending time with her husband and two sons, camping (there’s nothing better than a campfire), crafting (she is a Pinterest addict), and organizing just about anything.

GLORIA BAKKER
Behaviour Therapist/Instructor - EIL Stream (Hespeler Campus)

Meet Gloria Bakker, a graduate of the Autism and Behavioural Science Program. Besides this diploma Gloria has a degree in Sociology from York University as well as two other diplomas in Developmental Service Work and Early Childhood Education. She has worked in various group home settings supporting adults with developmental and physical disabilities, as well as in school environments as an ECE and an Educational Assistant. Gloria has five years of experience delivering ABA therapy in various settings such as therapy centres, in-home and in the community.
She is a busy and loving mother of 4, 2 of whom both have autism. Local community services and ABA providers have been a great support for Gloria and her family and she wants to give back to the community by using her experience and knowledge to support and help families and their children.
Gloria’s hobbies include spending time with her family and friends, travelling and being involved in the community through groups and organizations.
She enjoys being a part of the wonderful staff at Oak Bridge Academy and the Oak Bridge Academy community.

ELEXIS THOMPSON
Behaviour Therapist/Interim R2L Program Lead- Ready 2 Learn (Hespeler Campus)

In 2019 while attending an ABA center with her son who has autism, Elexis heard about Oak Bridge Academy. That fall Elexis joined Oak Bridge Academy as a PSW and loved witnessing children reach their potential through the use of ABA and ACT. This inspired her to return to college where she obtained her Autism Studies Certificate with Honours from Algonquin College. She was also very intrigued by the positive impact ACT could have on children with Autism, and strived to use it in both her personal and professional life. In August 2020 she completed the ACT Immersion program with Steven C. Hayes. She is currently attending Seneca College to complete an Honours Bachelor of Behavioural Psychology (BBP). This year Elexis is looking forward to supporting her students on their learning journeys.
When Elexis has free time she loves spending time with her partner and son doing outdoor activities. She also enjoys crafting, cooking and reading.

HAYLEY HAMILL
Behaviour Therapist/Full Day Instructor - Ready 2 Learn (Hespeler Campus)
Hayley graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology in 2013. She then continued on in her studies in the Autism and Behavioural Science program at Mohawk College where she completed a student placement at A Balanced Approach in Waterloo. After graduating from the program in 2015, she continued on to work at A Balanced Approach as an Instructor Therapist. In the fall of 2016, Hayley moved to Brantford where she has been working as an Instructor Therapist/Registered Behaviour Technician at Kalyana Support Systems for the last 7 years. In her spare time, you can find Hayley spending time with her family and friends, reading a good book or baking something delicious for family and friends to enjoy! Hayley is thrilled to be starting a new RBT position at OBA and looks forward to helping students reach their full potential inside and outside of the classroom.

Jennifer Aucoin
Behaviour Therapist - EIL/ (Hespeler Campus)
Jennifer found her passion for supporting neurodiverse individuals as a Developmental Services
Worker program graduate at Fanshawe College. This passion continued when she graduated
from Toronto Metropolitan University with a Bachelor of Arts in Disability Studies. She completed
a postgraduate certificate in Autism and Behavioural Science in 2024 and is completing a
master’s degree in professional education (ABA Therapy). She is excited to use this experience
and education with the students at OBA.
Outside of work, she is a fibre artist, creating works with wool that use sight, sound, touch, and
scent to provide an inclusive experience. She loves to play board and card games with her
husband and is creating a board game that is accessible for people with visual disabilities. She
also loves to attend live theatre and concerts with her daughter and husband.

Annu Vinoy
Behaviour Therapist - Senior Grades (Forward Campus)
Annu’s career in child development started when she graduated in Speech Language Pathology, and completed Masters in Clinical Child Development from India. After moving to Canada, her career focus shifted to ABA, after attending school on Behaviour Science. Her life long passion is to empower children in achieving their full potential, providing guidance and support as they navigate the daily opportunities and challenges of school, an environment that, alongside family, has a profound impact on their cognitive, social, and emotional growth. At OBA, she is at the very right place for that.

KAITLYN MARONEY
Behaviour Therapist - Senior Grades (Forward Campus)
Kaitlyn graduated with honors and was named to the Dean’s List, holding an advanced diploma in Child and Youth Care from Fanshawe College, where she developed a strong foundation in supporting the unique needs of children and adolescents. Kaitlyn is passionate about helping students overcome challenges and reach their full potential through tailored behavioural interventions and support strategies.
Outside of work, Kaitlyn enjoys playing soccer, coaching lacrosse, and traveling, bringing the same energy and enthusiasm to her hobbies as she does to her professional life.

SARAH DE AMORIM
Behaviour Therapist - Junior Grades (Forward Campus)

Sarah graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Sociology. In following her passion of working with children, she continued on to study Autism and Behavioural Science at Fanshawe College where she got a student placement at Oak Bridge Academy. She was super excited when she was offered the opportunity to work at OBA full time. Outside of work, Sarah loves to travel and spend time with her friends and family. She is looking forward to an amazing school year!

BROOKE RIBEY
Behaviour Therapist - Junior Grades (Forward Campus)
Brooke graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with a Bachelors Degree in Criminology and a double minor in Indigenous Studies and Policing. She started her career in ABA quickly after she graduated, providing direct behaviour therapy in a clinical setting. After graduation, she continued to explore her passion for helping others volunteering at a youth homeless shelter and coaching youth soccer. She is excited to be a part of the OBA team!
In her spare time she enjoys camping, playing soccer, travelling, and cooking.

STEPHANIE (NORTH)
Behaviour Therapist - Intermediate Grades (Forward Campus)

Stephanie (known as North by everyone at OBA) has been dedicated to working with neurodiverse students for over 15 years. She began her career as an instructor therapist and gained valuable experience with the Hamilton School Board before joining Oak Bridge Academy. Stephanie holds a certification in Autism and Social Sciences from Mohawk College.
At OBA, Stephanie spent three years in the EIL classroom, where she honed her skills in supporting students' diverse needs. She has since returned to the intermediate side of the school, where she continues to bring her passion and expertise to her work. Stephanie is committed to creating a fun and exciting school year for her students and feels deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the Oak Bridge community.

Kassia Gobbi
Behaviour Therapist - Intermediate Grades (Forward Campus)
Kassia is a dedicated Behaviour Therapist with a passion for helping neurodiverse children. Kassia began her career in Brazil, where she holds a psychology degree and post-graduation in Clinical and Institutional Psychopedagogy. She worked as a Psychologist for 6 years with kids with disabilities and autism in both clinical and school settings.

After moving to Canada, she earned her Developmental Services Worker (DSW) diploma from Humber College. In 2021, Kassia started working as an Instructor Therapist, securing her first job after completing a co-op at an ABA private clinic. She is now starting her first year as a Behaviour Therapist at OBA and is thrilled about the opportunity to help children reach their full potential.

Kassia is also a proud mother of two children, a boy and a girl. She enjoys spending quality time with her family in their backyard, going for walks in their neighborhood, watching TV, and playing board and card games. Kassia also enjoys traveling, camping and attending jazz class in her free time.

CRYSTAL DALEY
Behaviour Therapist - Intermediate Grades (Forward Campus)

Crystal graduated from the University of Waterloo with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. She was then offered a position as a Behavioural Therapist following her graduation and this sparked her passion for working with children. Crystal is excited to be a part of OBA and to be able to contribute to the success of students. Outside of school, Crystal enjoys reading, crocheting, and spending time with her family.

Sierra Quinlan
Behaviour Therapist - Intermediate Grades (Forward Campus)
Sierra is a registered social service worker who has a unique background working with diverse populations. Sierra began her career path working as a Direct Support Professional within a group home setting for five years. After looking for a change she then moved to Sudbury where she completed her role as a Mental Health Professional. Through this role Sierra worked with a range of individuals including people diagnosed with mental illness, individuals living with dual diagnosis and international students. After two years, Sierra moved closer to my family and is now working as a Behaviour Therapist at OakBridge Academy. OBA is a place where Sierra is able to combine her passion for supporting individuals with their mental health along with working front line in supporting the success of their daily life. Outside of work Sierra enjoys spending time with her family, going out for nature walks and exploring different parts of Ontario.

MICHAILA MELANSON
Behaviour Therapist - Junior Grades (Hespeler Campus)

Michaila graduated from the University of Waterloo with a Bachelor of Arts, Psychology and a Bachelor of Science, Kinesiology. Michaila developed her passion for working with kids through coaching figure skating and working as an Instructor Therapist at Kalyana Support Systems. Michaila is looking forward to another year with the OBA team, who share her desire of helping students reach their potential. In her spare time, Michaila enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.

ASHLEY BRYANT
Behaviour Therapist - Junior Grades (Hespeler Campus)

ALICIA NEMES
Behaviour Therapist - Junior Grades (Forward Campus)
Alicia graduated from McMaster University with a honors degree in Social Psychology in 2014. After graduating, she worked at Lansdowne Children’s Center as an Instructor Therapist in the Autism Intervention Program for 5 years. Alicia began working at Oak Bridge Academy in 2019. She has loved being a part of such an amazing group of people who all have the same goal of helping students succeed. Outside of the classroom Alicia spends most of her time with her daughter. She enjoys being outside and loves travelling.

BRIE GOSSELIN
Behaviour Therapist - Junior Grades (Forward Campus)
Brieanne is an experienced behaviour therapist who has been working in the field for the past 15 years. She received her Early Childhood Education diploma in 2007 at Fanshawe College. Her passion for working with neurodiverse children began following graduation when she was asked to be the head camp leader for a special needs day camp in Cambridge. She then went back to Fanshawe College and received her diploma for Autism and Behavioural Science in 2009. Brieanne started as a home based therapist and then transitioned to center based therapy where she worked at Monarch House as a dedicated therapist for 13 years. At Monarch House Brie took on various roles such as Lead Therapist, Float Therapist and a competency staff trainer. Brieanne has also worked as a therapist overseas in Morocco and Abu Dhabi. After mat leave in 2024 she wanted to shift directions and work as a therapist in a school environment. Brieanne is excited and proud to be a member of the OBA team! In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, playing ringette, going to concerts and being outdoors.

ASHLEY GERGER
Behaviour Therapist - Junior Grades (Forward Campus)
Ashley started with Oak Bridge Academy September of 2022, as a junior registered behaviour technician. Her previous experience includes a decade of working with children of all ages, including working within and alongside various school boards, a local youth shelter and residential facilities. Ashley's personal interests include creating art within a variety of mediums, travel, anything nature and being by the water. She was born and raised in Kitchener where she still resides, living with her two snuggly kitties.
Ashley is excited to have the opportunity to grow alongside Oak Bridge Academy for another academic year!

Salamawit Kefte
Behaviour Therapist - Junior Grades (Forward Campus)
Salam earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from McMaster University in 2024. During her third year of undergraduate studies, she encountered Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in an introductory course, which ignited her passion for the field. Over the past two years, Salam has been an instructor therapist, applying her knowledge and skills in therapeutic settings. Additionally, she has been dedicated to working with children since the age of 15, accumulating valuable experience in child development and behavioural intervention.
When offered a full-time position at OBA, Salam felt a profound sense of excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to such a remarkable community dedicated to fostering growth and development for individuals with diverse needs. She particularly loves being able to experience the joy of childhood again through her work in ABA. Outside of work, Salam engages in outdoor activities, particularly hiking. She also prioritizes maintaining an active lifestyle and cherishes quality time spent with her boyfriend, family, and friends.

CHARISSA SILLANPAA
Behaviour Therapist - Junior Grades (Hespeler Campus)

Charissa’s experience with ASD started in High School, when a girl insisted on sitting with her, every day. It started with the simple task of opening this girl's chocolate pudding. Charissa has 5 years of experience working with children with autism. She started as an instructor therapist at Breaking Barriers in Waterloo and went on to become an RBT when it became Monarch House. Through her work at Monarch House she gained experience for OBA by working at St Judes, St Marguerite and Ecole L’Harmonie, where she provided therapy in French. Her passion has been to bridge the gap between ASD and Education and so she feels OBA is the perfect fit for her. She has loved watching the students flourish both academically and socially through the great work and care given by staff at the OBA.
Outside of school she is kept busy with her three children and her fourth baby, her chocolate lab, Rolo.

Veronica Gil Garcia
Behaviour Therapist - Junior Grades (Hespeler Campus)
Ever since Veronica was little, she has always loved helping others. Since she was 17 years old, she has taught the children/youth at her church. Through that volunteer experience she realized how much she enjoyed guiding the youth through their life experiences. In 2021 she graduated from McMaster University with a bachelors in Honours French. From 2022 she started working with children diagnosed with ASD in a 1:1 setting. Her passion for working with children increased when seeing their progression in therapy, varying from academics to life skills. Veronica is very excited to start this year with OBA, to see the children not only progress in their schooling but forming friendships with their peers. In her free time Veronica enjoys painting pottery, reading, crafting and most recently learning how to play piano. Veronica aspires to gain a degree in professional education, specializing in behaviour therapy.

Mansi Jain
Behaviour Therapist - Junior Grades (Hespeler Campus)
Mansi holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from India and further pursued specialized education in Canada. She earned a post-graduate certificate in Autism and Behavioural Science from George Brown College, which led her to begin her career as an Instructor-Therapist, working one-on-one with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The rewarding experience of seeing a child's progress in language and social skills solidified her passion for supporting children. Mansi also completed a post-graduate certificate in Mental Health and Disability Management from Mohawk College and gained valuable experience during her placement with Wesley Supporting Housing. She is thrilled to be part of the OBA community and is dedicated to helping students learn, grow, and achieve their full potential. In her free time, Mansi enjoys traveling, cooking, and spending quality time with her friends and family.

CHRISTA MURR
Behaviour Therapist - Primary Grades (Hespeler Campus)

Christa is a registered behaviour therapist who has enjoyed working with children of various exceptionalities over the past 15 years. She is very passionate and grateful to be part of a team who works with the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis to help students be successful in school and in life. She loves watching the students be their true selves, be proud of their accomplishments and make many lasting friendships at Oakbridge Academy.
Outside of school, Christa’s life is filled with the adventures of 2 teenagers, boating with family and friends and snuggling with her many pets.

MIRANDA GALVAO
Behaviour Therapist - Primary Grades (Hespeler Campus)
Miranda graduated from Fanshawe College in 2018 with a diploma in Early Childhood Education and in 2019 with a diploma in Autism and Behavioural Sciences! After graduation she worked as a Behaviour Therapist at Best Behaviour before making a move out east to Nova Scotia where she lived for almost 3 years! In Nova Scotia she worked as the Inclusion/Curriculum Coordinator for a childcare center. Miranda is currently an RECE and is working on her RBT certification through St. Lawrence College. This will be Miranda's first year at Oak Bridge Academy and she is looking forward to getting to know the students and families within the school community! In her downtime Miranda enjoys spending time with her son reading stories, going on adventures and swimming!

Rebekah Pierre
Behaviour Therapist - Primary Grades (Hespeler Campus)

KYLIE BARFITT
Behaviour Therapist - Ready 2 Learn (Hespeler Campus)
Since graduating in 2011 from Sheridan College with a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Kylie's career has been dedicated to working with children. Beginning with roles in daycares and later as a nanny for a remarkable family, her journey led her to Erinoak Kids, Centre for Treatment and Development where one of the children she cared for received occupational therapy. Intrigued by the environment, Kylie secured a position as a program support staff member, assisting classrooms with additional needs across various daycare settings. A pivotal moment arose when a supervisor recommended that Kylie shadow an instructor therapist specializing in autism, providing behavioural therapy—a role that deeply resonated with her. For the past seven years, Kylie has immersed herself in this field, providing 1:1 and 1:3 ABA therapy, conducting parent coaching sessions, and co-managing an ABA classroom.
Kylie has been married for 5 years to her high school sweetheart of 18 years. They have an adorable almost two-year-old son, Nolan and fur baby, Gus. Last summer, they proudly purchased their first home after relocating from Mississauga. Beyond work, Kylie's interests span quality time with family and friends, a passion for true crime, fitness activities, and indulging in her fair share of shopping experiences. The warmth and acceptance Kylie has experienced since joining the community has made her excited about getting to know the students and staff better and being apart of the Oak Bridge family.

Madelyn Paluska
Behaviour Therapist - Ready 2 Learn (Hespeler Campus)
Madelyn graduated from McMaster university with a bachelor of applied science in human behaviour in 2023. After graduating she worked as a behaviour therapist, working 1:1 with a child diagnosed with ASD. Seeing this child grow and progress in their language and social skills inspired her to continue working with children and supporting them in their learning. Madelyn loves being a part of the OBA community and continuing to see students learn and grow.
Outside of work Madelyn enjoys road-tripping and spending time with her friends and family.

Manyata Sharma
Behaviour Therapist - Ready 2 Learn (Hespeler Campus)
Manyata (Manya) hails from India and came to Canada for her Masters program. She has a Masters in Applied Disability Studies with a specialization in Applied Behaviour Analysis. She also has a Masters in Counselling Psychology from her home country. She has been supporting people with developmental and learning disabilities since 2018. Manya received her motivation to support individuals with developmental disabilities from her brother, as he is autistic. In the best of her capacities, she tries to amalgamate counselling psychology and ABA to ensure people feel safe and comfortable while accessing services. Manya aims to provide trauma-informed and evidence-based services to the people she supports.

ARIEL M
Behaviour Therapist - PEAK Programming (Forward Campus)
Ariel graduated from the University of Guelph with an honours in applied Psychology with an emphasis in Research Skills and Analysis. While studying, Ariel found her passion in Applied Behaviour Analysis, so she further narrowed her studies to the studies of Autism and Behavioural Sciences at Fanshawe College; along the way taking various Humber college courses to help keep her main goals at focus. Ariel is passionate about learning, and strives to maintain her ability to learn on a daily basis. She understands the importance of both empirical and theoretical knowledge, so her experience and knowledge will maintain a balance. Working first at an young-adult day program, then privately as an Instructor Therapist, Ariel has now found her place at Oak Bridge Academy and hopes to keep her research and experiences sharp to best support each individual in her care. She ultimately looks forward to doing so with a bright and dynamic team at her side!

SHAUNA HUSSEY
Behaviour Therapist - PEAK Programming (Hespeler Campus)
Shauna graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with a Bachelor of Arts degree and went on to further her education at Conestoga College where she graduated from the Educational Support program. In 2021, during her Educational Support program, Shauna completed her last student placement at OBA and began to fill in as a supply worker as well. After graduation, Shauna was offered a full time EA position where she has since worked in various classes. After working as an EA for over 3 years at OBA, Shauna is excited to further her experience by taking a new position as a Behaviour Therapist. When Shauna is not working at OBA, she can be found spending time with her son, and travelling.

VANESSA CAMPBELL (maternity leave for the 2024-2025 school year)
Behaviour Therapist/1:1 PEAK Programming
Vanessa graduated from Early Childhood Education in 2014. During her studies she completed a kindergarten placement at a local school and had the opportunity to work with a young boy with ASD. This is where she got to see how further supports such as speech and occupational therapies supported him in the classroom and at home. Loving how these strategies played such a positive role in the young boy's life, she went on to pursue a postgraduate certificate in Autism and Behavioural Sciences. After graduating in 2016 Vanessa spent 5 years working at A Balanced Approach in Waterloo providing centre, home and remote services to many children and adolescents. She loved being a part in her clients lives and working with the clinical team and families to provide all the support and strategies she possibly could. While applying all the ABA principles in an IBI setting, Vanessa always admired the work and progress Oakbridge Academy has been doing these past few years. She was so excited to become a part of the team during the 2022/2023 school year and see the students thrive in a school setting. In her spare time Vanessa enjoys spending time with her son and husband, reading and watching movies!

HILLARIE RIDDELL (maternity leave for the 2024-2025 school year)
Behaviour Therapist

Hillarie graduated from Fanshawe College in 2012. After graduating she worked at A Balanced Approach for 6 years, where she met Kathie Shaw. Hillarie began at Oak Bridge Academy when it welcomed its first group of students in September 2018. She has a very strong passion for working with kids and has loved watching her OBA students grow and flourish in a school environment.
Hillarie grew up in the small town of Fergus and continues to now live with her husband and young son. Hillarie enjoys spending time with her family and friends, curling and coaching soccer.

MARINA RISTOVSKA - (maternity leave for the 2023-2024 school year)
Behaviour Therapist
Marina graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Brock University. To pursue her passion in working with children with exceptionalities, Marina continued her education at the University of Waterloo completing a Bachelor of Arts in Therapeutic Recreation. During this time, she interned at Arts Abound, an inclusive community art studio, supporting children explore their creative sides. Marina was working in the field of ABA as an Instructor Therapist until her move to Oak Bridge Academy. In her leisure time, she values travelling and spending time outdoors with her family, friends, and her dog, Charlie. Marina is proud to be a part of the Oak Bridge community, watching students reach their potential and be their true selves.

JESSY BLACKADAR (maternity leave for the 2023-2024 school year)
Behaviour Therapist

Jessy graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from McMaster University and later graduated with the Autism and Behavioural Science Post Graduate Certificate from Mohawk College. In the last 12 years, Jessy has worked with a variety of individuals with ASD . She has volunteered in the Hamilton-Wentworth School Boards in an autism classroom, worked with teens and adults in a semi-independent living home through Woodview Mental Health and Autism Services and worked as an Instructor Therapist at Lansdowne Children's Centre.
When Jessy isn't working she is travelling! She absolutely loves it and looks forward to checking a few more places off her bucket list.
Jessy feels extremely grateful to be part of a welcoming and wonderful community.

DANNIELLE FITZGERALD
(maternity leave for 2024)
Behaviour Therapist / Mindfulness Instructor

Dannielle is a graduate of Laurier University. Upon discovering her passion for working with children, Dannielle enrolled in the Autism and Behavioural Science program at George Brown College and began her career as an Instructor Therapist and has been working in the field for over 10 years. Dannielle is a Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT) and recently graduated from the Mindful Schools Teacher Certification Program and is pursuing certification. In her downtime she loves to travel, explore the outdoors and spend time with her family, friends and pets. Dannielle is so thankful to be a part of this school community and can’t wait to see the amazing things that both staff and students will achieve this year!