Our Philosophy
We believe that listening to the clients’ needs is the most important factor in designing an effective intervention plan. While using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) approaches, we always focus on assent-based learning and want to ensure our clients enjoy their learning.
Intervention occurs best when the entire team works together to foster growth. We will happily incorporate strategies from other professionals (SLP, OT, Physio, etc.) and work with your child’s school team to maximize potential. We also strive to provide culturally responsive services to our diverse client base.
Meet the Team
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Kelley Hevessy
I found my interest in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) shortly after completing my BA in Psychology from the University of Michigan in 2001. It was while working with my first client as a Behavior Interventionist that I saw what a difference ABA could make in the lives of those with autism.
Despite gaining experience in other fields, including Human Resources and food service/nutrition, I returned to ABA, as I love helping children learn and grow as individuals. I finished my DABA certificate from Douglas College in 2014 and my Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Cloud University in 2017 and am now a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). I have experience working with children aged 18 months through high school, and especially enjoy developing early communication skills, teaching pragmatic language and perspective-taking, and helping children improve their diet and nutrition.
In my free time I enjoy yoga, travelling, gardening and hiking, and mostly spending time with and riding my horse, Donut.
Intern
Ashley Niehaus
Ashley is a student at Capilano University pursuing a degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). She has completed a certificate in behavior intervention (2016), a Diploma in Classroom and Community Studies (2022) and the DABA program (2023) at Douglas College. She is passionate about her work as a behavior interventionist and more recently as an intern. Ashley has also worked as a hairstylist and enjoys helping children feel more comfortable getting their hair cut. In her free time she enjoys reading, board games, video games, nature and spending time with her husband and her two cats.
Behavior Interventionists
Lead Behavior Interventionist (Mat Leave)
Tayler Szlovicsak
Tayler is a student of Thompson River University currently completing her BA in Psychology through distance learning. She has been working as a behavior interventionist for 5 years and enjoys providing children with independence and life skills through this work. Outside of work and studies, Tayler enjoys exploring the outdoors, dirt-biking, and caring for her pup!
Sunjot Hundal
Lead Behavior Interventionist
Sunjot graduated from the University of British Columbia with a BKIN (Kinesiology) and a minor in Psychology. She is interested in working in occupational therapy and loves working with children. In her free time, she likes playing guitar, reading books, and swimming
Kiana Birkinshaw
Behavior Interventionist
Kiana is completing a BA in Psychology Honours at the University of the Fraser Valley. She is dedicated to supporting children's learning and development. In addition to working as a Behavioural Interventionist, Kiana volunteers as a PDA Responder for the Canadian Red Cross. Kiana is committed to nurturing a strong sense of confidence and belonging. She intends to pursue her Master's in School and Applied Child Psychology after her BA. In her leisure, she enjoys kayaking, hiking, and spending time by the water.
Sahana graduated from Simon Fraser University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. She is passionate about supporting children and families to help promote mental well-being. Sahana plans to pursue her JD through law school with hopes of becoming a family lawyer in the future. Outside of work, Sahanaenjoys baking, reading, and staying active through soccer and tennis. She also values spending quality time with her family, friends, and loved ones.
Behavior Interventionist
Sahana Sidhu
Ameena Kahalma
Behavior Interventionist
Ameena is a graduate from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. She is currently looking to pursue her Master's Degree in Applied Child Psychology, where she aims to gain licensure. Ameena is passionate and committed to creating a secure environment for all learners. She prides herself on creating trusting connections with those she meets, as well as bringing a calm demeanor wherever she goes. In her free time, she can be found in a coffee shop captivated by a book.
Diana Bitoiu
Behavior Interventionist
Diana is completing her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology at the University of the Fraser Valley. Her passion lies in promoting mental well-being and fostering meaningful connections with others. She believes in creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels heard and valued and is committed to fostering supportive environments where individuals feel safe and empowered. Outside of studies, she enjoys baking, reading, spending quality time with loved ones and immersing herself in nature.
Harjas Chahal
Behavior Interventionist
Harjas is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at The University of British Columbia. She plans to further her education in counselling to become a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC). Harjas is passionate about supporting children in learning, independence, and confidence through her work as a behaviour interventionist. In her free time, she enjoys exploring nature and spending quality time with her friends and family.
Tyler Leversage
Behavior Interventionist
Tyler is in the process if completing his Bachelors of Social Work at the University of the Fraser Valley. He enjoys aiding in the development of life skills. More specifically, the development in understanding verbal and non-verbal cues. He has a highly involved and busy family life leading to a slight proficiency in his cooking and baking abilities. During his free time he is normally either, reading, watching shows or spending time with his loved ones.
Alissa Sladecek
Behavior Interventionist
Alissa graduated from Simon Fraser University with a BSc with a major in Biology and a minor in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. In the future, she plans on pursuing a medical degree. In her free time, she volunteers with the Girl Guides of Canada, and enjoys camping, hiking, and reading.