Meet The Team
Caelah Gamache
Owner, Clinical Supervisor
Caelah, a Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA) and Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA), brings over a decade of experience in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and family coaching. A registered provider on the Ontario Autism Provider list, Caelah specializes in Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, acquired brain injury, and dual diagnosis.
​
Starting her career as a Child and Youth Worker and parent coach in Ottawa, Caelah’s passion for home-based family work grew, leading her to a Behaviour Consultant role at CHEO. This experience inspired her to establish Gamache Behaviour Consulting, where she empowers parents to implement ABA strategies and enhance family life.
Now a behavior analyst with a local School Board, Caelah works with school teams to address classroom behaviour challenges.
​
In her off time, Caelah enjoys her adventures as a mom, the on-going pursuit of achieving a pull-up and she is an avid movie watcher, in particular Harry Potter (a category unto itself), Sci-fi, and comedy genres.


Clinical Supervisor
Registered Behaviour Analyst, BCBA,
Dannielle Ryksen
Dannielle has an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Carleton University, specializing in Mental Health, as well as Masters of Special Education with a focus in Applied Behaviour Analysis from Arizona State University. Dannielle became certified as a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) in March of 2024 and a Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA) in July 2024. In her role as Clinical Supervisor at Gamache Behaviour Consulting, Dannielle supervises behaviour consultants and instructor therapists implementing ABA therapy sessions with valued clients.
Since 2019, Dannielle has worked with children and youth from 2-18 years of age with various diagnoses, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome, and ADHD. Her compassionate and client-centered approach allows her to provide services in a variety of settings, including in-home, and virtually. Dannielle has experience conducting assessments, writing individualized behaviour plans related to both skill acquisition and behaviour reduction, and creating tailored treatment packages to meet each client’s unique needs.
In addition to her clinical expertise, Dannielle holds certifications in Mental Health First Aid and First Aid CPR C+AED. She is fluent in English and provides ABA therapy services to clients across the Ottawa & Niagara region and virtually throughout Ontario.

Intake Coordinator
Sarah Begg
Sarah has an Honors Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Psychology and a diploma in Human Resources Business Administration, but let’s be real — her most intense training comes from being a mom of four!
She’s worked with all kinds of people, but helping parents navigate the wild world of supports and programming is where her heart truly lies. She often jokes that she went to school to figure out how to manage her own household, where her behavior management skills get tested daily by her little crew.
​
She brings personal insight into the rewards and challenges of parenting and understands firsthand how effective family-centered approaches can transform day-to-day life.
In her free time, Sarah enjoys running.... after her kids, Sarah is all about self-improvement, continuous learning, and finding balance in the beautiful chaos of motherhood.
_HEIC.png)
Registered Behaviour Analyst, BCBA
Kathleen Kerbl
Kathleen, BCBA, RBT, has been supporting neurodivergent individuals since 2012 — and she’s just getting started. Backed by a degree in Behavioural Psychology, a Master’s of Professional Education (ABA), and her BCBA certification, Kathleen brings real-world experience and a belief that support should always empower, never limit. Her work focuses on reducing risky behaviour, building adaptive skills, and delivering assent-focused, individualized ABA services that celebrate strengths as much as they support challenges.
​
A major focus of Kathleen’s work is sexual behaviour analysis — an area she’s fiercely passionate about. She’s committed to making sure people with disabilities have access to honest, shame-free education about their bodies, consent, boundaries, dating, self-advocacy, and safe sexual practices. Her approach is rooted in respect, empowerment, and the belief that everyone deserves to move through the world with confidence and autonomy.
When she’s off the clock, you’ll probably find Kathleen somewhere with her dog, a backpack, and questionable cell service. She’s usually chasing concerts, campfires, plant-based recipes, or her next good story — and she firmly believes a little adventure (and a lot of heart) makes everything better.
​

Registered Behaviour Analyst, BCBA
Julie Lathrop
Like many professionals in this field, Julie’s introduction to the world of Applied Behaviour Analysis started with one child and his family. She was hired to provide extra support for this child at his daycare and this quickly grew into a career in the field for over 10 years. She has undergraduate degrees in Fine Arts and Psychology (Honours), and a Master’s degree in Art Therapy. She did her coursework with the Florida Institute of Technology and completed her supervision hours to be certified as a BCBA in 2015.
Julie gained further experience working in the Autism program at CHEO. At CHEO she ran clinic and in-home sessions for children with varying needs ranging in ages from 3 to 18. She has facilitated many different parent and children’s groups in both French and English. She is trained in a variety of evidence-based approaches such as PEERS, AIM and Triple P Positive Parenting Solutions-Stepping Stones and she is currently fulfilling the role of an ABA specialist facilitating various skill-building groups at a local schoolboard.
She loves working with children and teens and is passionate about teaching skills effectively and gently. She loves spending as much time as possible with her daughters, partner, and extended family. She still loves painting and promises to show those paintings to people.... someday. ;)

Supervised Behaviour Consultant
Amy Galipeau
Amy is one of our bilingual consultants. She obtained her undergrad degree in Psychology in 2014 and started her journey in the field by working front line in adult group homes, while completing a post graduate certificate in Autism and Behavioural Sciences.
She has been implementing her knowledge of ABA principles for over nine years, in both clinical and in-home settings. Her implementation experience stretches across a range of ages (from children to adults) and diagnoses including individuals with intellectual disabilities and global developmental delays. She has experience providing behaviour analysis directly to clients, individually or in groups, as well as with caregivers in a mediator training model.
She makes it a priority, when working with families, to make them a pivotal piece in the development of the behavioural plan strategies and goals. She strongly advocates that parents are the experts of their child.
In her spare time she enjoys reading thrillers, spending time with her loved ones and discovering new places.

Supervised Behaviour Consultant
Rachel Griffioen
Rachel has been working in the field of developmental and physical disabilities for 20 years and applying her knowledge in behaviour analysis to this field for over 10 years. During her time in the field, she has had the opportunity to work with individuals with varying physical and developmental disabilities.
​
Rachel is experienced in Autism and Dual Diagnosis services and has provided services in-home and in clinical settings. She has worked directly with clients implementing behaviour analysis and in a mediator model, training caregivers to implement the strategies.
​
She is trained in multiple, evidence-based, approaches such as Triple P Positive Parenting- Stepping Stones and the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). She has rounded out her practice with some training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and is currently completing her bachelor’s in Psychology at Carleton University.
​
In her spare time, Rachel enjoys running, gardening and working with her animals.

Supervised Behaviour Consultant
Hunter Bourgon
Hunter has been working in the field of ABA for over five years. She obtained her Board Certified Assistant Behaviour Analyst (BCaBA) in March, 2022 after completing her coursework through the Florida Institute of Technology.
​
Hunter has worked with children and youth in home, daycare, school and center-based settings. She has facilitated 1:1, dyadic and triadic sessions. Hunter has experience providing comprehensive therapy to build skills and delivering focused ABA therapy services to target specific areas of development such as communication, toileting, social skills and challenging behaviours.
​
Hunter is passionate about helping children and youth develop socially significant skills and build independence. She is also a practitioner of a collaborative approach to therapy and greatly enjoys working closely with families and other professionals to design treatment that is a best fit.
​
In her free time, Hunter enjoys playing volleyball, going to dog parks, weekends at the cottage, spending time with family and friends and trying new things. She also is always on the lookout for a new TV show to binge or board game to play.

Supervised Behaviour Consultant
Shanez Lawrence
Shanez has nearly three years of experience in behavioral therapy and a boundless passion for making a difference! Currently juggling her studies for a joint honors degree in Psychology and Linguistics at the University of Ottawa, Shanez is on a mission to unravel the mysteries of human behavior and communication.
​
With a zest for life, Shanez dives into her work with enthusiasm, bringing a fresh perspective to every challenge. Whether she's working with children or adults, Shanez is all about infusing fun into effective behavioral strategies. Her commitment to the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is as infectious as her smile, as she eagerly expands her expertise in the field.
​
In her downtime, you can find Shanez hitting the gym, sharing laughs with her loved ones, or jet-setting off to explore exciting new destinations.

Supervised Behaviour Consultant
Savannah Hamou-Ihadj
Savannah is a bilingual Supervised Behaviour Consultant who brings both heart and humour to the work she does. Currently completing her B.A. Honours in Psychology with a concentration in Developmental Psychology at Carleton University, Savannah began her journey in the field as an ABA Instructor Therapist in a bustling centre-based setting. There, she built a rock-solid foundation in evidence-based strategies while supporting children with developmental disabilities—and she hasn’t looked back since.
​
Her passion for the field only grew as she branched into residential care, working with youth and adults with dual diagnoses in group home environments. From 1:1 sessions to caregiver-mediated models, Savannah has delivered ABA services across homes, centres, and the community with a steady mix of creativity and compassion.
​
Savannah has a knack for tailoring treatment plans that actually make sense for real life—focusing on meaningful goals like communication, social skills, and daily living. She’s all about collaboration, and she firmly believes that therapy should feel approachable, empowering, and maybe even a little fun. Whether it’s a giant leap or a tiny win, she’s here to celebrate every step forward.
When she’s off the clock, you’ll likely find Savannah curled up with a good book, laughing with friends, or deep into the plot of her latest dramatic TV obsession.

Supervised Behaviour Consultant
Aisha Stenger-Elmas
Aisha has been thriving in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for 3 years. After earning her Honours Bachelor's Degree in Developmental Psychology in 2022, she’s now tackling her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology—because why stop at one degree, and has officially become a Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying.
​
Aisha has worked with children, teens, and adults with physical and developmental disabilities, including Autism, in home and center-based settings. She combines structure and creativity using Intensive Trial Teaching (ITT) and Natural Environment Teaching (NET) to help clients build life skills, communication, and social confidence. Trained in the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and Proloquo2Go—both communication tools—she also uses AIM (Accept, Identify, Move) therapy, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and assessment tools like the VB-MAPP (Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program) and Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills (ABLLS) to guide client progress.
​
With a passion for making therapy fun and meaningful, Aisha champions play-based, child-led approaches and close collaboration with families. She’s working toward a future in trauma-focused therapy and is an active student member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, Ontario Association Of Mental Health Professionals, Ontario Association for Behavior Analysis, Canadian Art Therapy Association, and Canadian Association for Play Therapy.
​
Off the clock, Aisha enjoys crocheting, reading, solving puzzles with her partner, exploring the outdoors, spending time with friends and family, and giving her dog the VIP treatment every day

Supervised Instructor Therapist
Rachel Hughes
Rachel has over six years of experience working with children and is especially passionate about supporting those with special needs. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Studies and is currently continuing her journey in education at the University of Ottawa’s teacher’s college, with dreams of becoming an elementary school teacher.
​
For Rachel, working with children isn’t just a profession—it’s where her heart lies. She’s dedicated to creating a space where children of all abilities can grow, learn, and thrive. By using playful, engaging strategies like sensory activities, music, and movement, she ensures that each child not only develops important skills but also enjoys every moment.
​
In her free time, Rachel loves to keep active, whether she’s working out at the gym or relaxing by the lake at her family cottage. She also enjoys quiet moments curled up with a good show—balance is everything!

Supervised Instructor Therapist
Jaime Piquette
Jaime's journey in education began during her high school years, where she discovered a passion for supporting students with developmental and physical disabilities. She eagerly volunteered in a specialized classroom, dedicating her time to assist and uplift these students.
Driven by her passion, Jaime pursued a program in Developmental Services, gaining the knowledge and skills needed to excel in her field. Over the years, she's worked as an Educational Assistant in a specialized program designed to provide targeted support and intervention for students with unique needs. Her dedication has made a significant impact on the lives of the students she works with.
Beyond her career, Jaime and her family have been providing respite care for over 26 years, demonstrating a deep-rooted commitment to helping others. When she's not working, Jaime loves spending time camping and swimming with her family.

Supervised Instructor Therapist
Shalini Sharma
Shalini has spent the past six years working with children, and she’s still convinced she learns just as much from them as they do from her. As an ABA therapist, she’s passionate about helping young people uncover their strengths — one step, one skill, and one joyful moment at a time. She has a special love for working with children and youth with special needs, tailoring her approach to celebrate what makes each client unique.
​
Through compassionate and personalized support, Shalini empowers her clients to build communication, social, and daily living skills — cheering them on as they gain confidence, independence, and the occasional well-earned bragging rights. She’s a big believer in the magic of small victories and loves collaborating with families to make sure every bit of progress (no matter how tiny) gets the celebration it deserves. High fives, dance parties, or bunny-approved fist bumps — all victories welcome.
​
Outside of sessions, you’ll likely find Shalini winding down with her very spoiled pet bunny (who may or may not think he’s the real therapist) or laughing with friends about life’s latest adventures. Whether she’s guiding a child through a new challenge or finding joy in the everyday, Shalini brings heart, humour, and a deep belief that every step forward is something worth smiling about.

Supervised Instructor Therapist
Bodhi Talbot
Bodhi recently graduated with her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Ottawa—adding another degree to her growing collection (she also holds a B.A. in Philosophy, because why stop at one?). Her journey into the world of developmental psychology began in the Children’s Wellness Laboratory, where volunteering sparked a deep interest in supporting children and their families.
​
Bodhi is passionate about helping young people thrive and empowering families to reach their goals. With her sights set on becoming a registered psychotherapist, she plans to continue her studies with a Master of Counselling—and probably sneak in a few more ethics courses for fun along the way.
​
A firm believer in both kindness and critical thinking, Bodhi blends her background in psychology and philosophy to bring thoughtfulness and empathy to everything she does.
​
When she’s not busy reading about the human mind, she’s likely diving into fiction, challenging her partner to a board game (and maybe winning), or enjoying the great outdoors—so long as it’s not cold enough to turn her into a popsicle.

Supervised Instructor Therapist
Ifeoma Onyemelukwe
Ifeoma (Ify) is an Instructor Therapist with a passion for helping children thrive through personalized support and meaningful connection. With a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a background in Law, and a heart as big as her to-do list, she brings a unique mix of structure, strategy, and empathy to her work. She’s currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP), continuing her commitment to evidence-based, client-centered care—with just the right dose of real-world wisdom.
​
Ifeoma has experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental needs using the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). She especially enjoys working closely with families to create lasting, positive change, and believes strongly in leading with compassion, cultural humility, and respect.
​
When she’s off the clock, Ifeoma is a proud mom, a loyal bookworm, and the kind of person who can throw together a dinner party while planning the next family adventure (with spa time worked in, of course). She knows that growth doesn’t just happen in therapy sessions—it lives in the everyday chaos, the quiet wins, and the joyful messes that make up real life.
_edited.jpg)
Supervised Behaviour Consultant
Assad Lotf
Assad has been working in the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis for nearly three years, and from day one, it felt like the perfect fit. With a natural passion for helping others, he thrives on making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and their families—walking alongside them as they work toward greater success and connection.
​
Before joining the ABA world, Assad gained valuable experience in multiple ASD classrooms at a local Ottawa school board. He also holds a diploma in Child and Youth Counselling, and draws on those skills every day to support client-led goals with compassion and flexibility.
Assad is experienced in both parent-mediated and client-directed service models, and has worked confidently with a range of target behaviours, including aggression, property destruction, and self-injurious behaviour.
​
Experienced in Practical Functional Assessment and Skill-Based Treatment (PFA/SBT), Assad is particularly passionate about this approach and loves seeing the meaningful changes it can bring.
​
When he’s not at work, you’ll find Assad playing sports, spending time with family and friends, or happily getting roped into some new adventure—because if it’s different, fun, or slightly chaotic, he’s probably already said yes.

Supervised Instructor Therapist
Abbey LeaFloor
Abbey is a graduate of Algonquin College’s Child and Youth Care Practitioner program. She completed two eight-month placements — working with both Ottawa school boards, one as an Educational Assistant and another as an Itinerant Educational Assistant supporting multiple schools.
​
Abbey has always been drawn to helping others feel seen and included. From a young age, she was the one sitting with the kids who were alone and lending a hand to those who needed extra support. Her studies and experience working with children facing adversity and trauma have strengthened her passion for being a positive, steady presence in a child’s life.
​
Outside of work, Abbey enjoys drawing, painting, and all kinds of arts and crafts — often with her two cats nearby for company.