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Meet Our Team
Rebecca Cunnington
(PI)
BAH, MSW, RSW
Principle
With over two decades of experience working with neurodiverse children, youth, and families, Rebecca is deeply committed to creating supportive environments that foster growth, understanding, and resilience. Her expertise spans case management, crisis intervention, and advocacy, focusing on empowering individuals and families to navigate complex systems and achieve meaningful outcomes. Drawing from a diverse professional background—including roles in child welfare, autism services, and therapeutic support— she has honed her therapeutic skills in assessment, program coordination, and relationship building, always prioritizing compassion and inclusivity.
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Her education includes a Master of Social Work from the University of Windsor, a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology and Philosophy from Trent University, and certifications in child and play therapy and motivational interviewing which complement her practical and lived experience. Whether facilitating access to essential resources, developing personalized care plans, or providing guidance in times of crisis, she brings a client-centered approach that values autonomy and celebrates diversity. Through collaboration, empathy, and evidence-based practices, Rebecca is dedicated to making a lasting impact on the lives of the individuals and families she serves.
Kate Ness
(she/her)
M.Ed., R.B.A. (Ont.), BCBA
Behaviour Analyst Associate
Kate is a dedicated BCBA with more than a decade of experience working in the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). She brings extensive expertise in clinical leadership, program development, and behaviour intervention. Kate’s approach to ABA is rooted in meeting clients and families where they are, collaboratively developing goals that are meaningful to the entire family, and ensuring she engages in assent-based practices that prioritize the dignity and autonomy of those she supports.
Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, Kate holds a Master of Education in Applied Behaviour Analysis from Arizona State University and an Organizational Behaviour Management Certificate from the Florida Institute of Technology. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and fostering a culture of continuous learning, positioning her as a catalyst for positive change in both client outcomes and team development.
Sarita Shrestha (she/her)
BHCM, MHCM, MSW, RSW
Therapist Associate
Sarita Shrestha is a dedicated and compassionate Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work, a Postgraduate degree in Women’s Studies, and a Master of Health Care Management. She has extensive experience working with diverse populations, including differently-abled individuals, those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, intimate partner violence, marginalized communities, and immigrants. Having personally navigated the immigrant experience, Sarita brings a unique understanding of the challenges faced by these communities.
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She specializes in anticipatory grief and bereavement support, offering holistic care that addresses the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of clients and their families. Sarita’s approach includes developing individualized care plans, advanced care planning, and grief support, ensuring families are supported through difficult transitions. Her work is grounded in Client-Centered and Anti-Oppressive approaches, with a deep commitment to social justice, advocacy, and creating stronger, more supported families.
Kimberly Desmoulin (she/her)
MA, RP (Qualifying)
Therapist Associate
Kimberly is a Mindbody Coach and psychotherapist with a passion for helping people reconnect with themselves through nervous system recovery. Her approach integrates intuitive movement, somatic awareness, and body-based emotional processing—guiding clients to filter emotions through the body and access deeper healing.
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As an indigenous person, with a Master’s in Counselling Psychology, certifications in Reiki and yoga, and over 20 years immersed in integrative nutrition and mind-body wellness, Kimberly draws from a rich well of experience to support whole-person transformation.
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At the heart of Kimberly's work is a simple, powerful message: you can trust yourself again. She is on a mission to help people adapt to stress so they don't have to avoid it. She believes in each person’s innate ability to heal and in creating the space, tools, and support to help them reclaim it.
David Jakubiec (he/him)
BSW, RSW
Behaviour Therapist/Developmental Specialist
David is a dedicated Registered Social Worker who puts the needs and goals of his clients first. He holds an undergraduate degree from Toronto Metropolitan University, where he focused on anti-oppressive practices, and has completed specialized training in Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA).
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With over a decade of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and those who are neurodiverse, David brings a collaborative, client-centered approach to his work. He is committed to lifelong learning and looks forward to pursuing his Master of Social Work.
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One of David’s favorite sayings is, “Reach for the moon—you might catch a star!”
Willamina Van Der Vecht (she/her)
BA
MSW Intern
Willamina is a Master of Social Work student at the University of Windsor and has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Visual Arts from the University of Victoria. She has over 10 years of experience working with youth, neurodiverse individuals, and individuals with mental illnesses and is committed to providing creative, fun, and strength-based care to the individuals she works with.
With a background in Outdoor Education, camping, and hiking, Willamina is very interested in facilitating opportunities to allow individuals to connect with nature and play. She has a deep appreciation for nature and is grateful for the opportunity to live in Canada on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabeg peoples. As an ally, she is committed to practicing anti-oppression, social justice, and decolonization in her work as a social work student.
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Serita Powell
(she/her)
BISW, BscSW
MSW Intern
Serita is a Master of Social Work student at the University of Windsor, bringing a strong academic foundation and extensive frontline experience to her placement. She holds a Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work from Laurentian University and a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from the University of the West Indies.
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With over seven years of experience supporting vulnerable populations, including the elderly, adults with complex disabilities, and Indigenous families and communities. Serita has provided services such as case management, crisis intervention, and resource mobilization. Her practice is grounded in cultural humility and trauma-informed care.
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Serita is of blended Caribbean and Canadian background, which informs her inclusive, anti-oppressive approach. She draws on her lived experience and professional background to advocate for racialized and marginalized groups, including immigrants and neurodiverse individuals. Her commitment to honoring diversity and creating equitable, accessible spaces is central to her evolving practice.
Ivy Katugampala
(she/her)
BAH
MSW Intern
Ivy is a Master of Social Work student at the University of Windsor, holding an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Social Development Studies from the University of Waterloo. She has experience supporting individuals with mental health challenges, neurodiverse young adults, and people with disabilities, and brings a warm, client-centered approach to all her work.
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With a background in both direct care and administrative roles at organizations such as the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and March of Dimes Canada, Ivy has contributed to initiatives that support youth, newcomers, and individuals navigating disability and social isolation. Through her involvement in both in-person and virtual programs, she has supported group engagement, skill-building, and inclusive social connection.
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As a South Asian woman, Ivy is committed to intersectional and culturally responsive practice. Her lived experience informs a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by racialized and marginalized communities. She approaches her work with empathy, cultural humility, and a strong anti-oppressive lens. Her interests include trauma-informed care and strengths-based support that empowers individuals toward independence, growth, and healing
Sheila Cranmer-Byng (she/her)
M.Ed., BSc, BA
MSW Intern
Sheila is a Master of Social Work student at the University of Windsor. She holds a Master of Education, a B.A. in History and a B.Sc. in Environmental Science and has over 20 years of experience working in the human services sector. Her experience includes both frontline and management positions. Over the years, she has supported refugees to resettle in Canada, and provided case management, counselling and group interventions to adults and youth with spinal cord injuries, street-involved youth and adults experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and addictions. One of her favourite jobs was leading an 8-month international educational exchange for youth from Indonesia and Canada.
Sheila is committed to ongoing learning, critical self-reflection, anti-oppressive practice, and social justice. She identifies as neurodiverse and has experience supporting students, who are neurodiverse and experience learning differences, navigate the educational system. Sheila is a hard-core nature-lover, who values the power of creativity, humour, and diversity.
Ramona Shelson
(she/her)
SSW Intern
Ramona is a Social Service Worker student at Sheridan College, based in Oakville, Ontario. She holds a diploma in Hospitality from Seneca College, graduating with honors, where she developed a strong foundation in client service, adaptability, and cultural awareness. Her years of experience in customer service helped her build exceptional communication and problem-solving skills.
Through personal experiences living alongside newcomers to Canada, Ramona gained a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and the challenges faced during settlement, sparking her passion for inclusive support and trauma-informed care. She is committed to creating safe, welcoming spaces for individuals from all walks of life and is excited to contribute her empathy, resilience, and collaborative spirit to the social service field.
Raine Martinez
(she/her)
GAUC
SSW Intern
Raine is a dedicated Social Service Worker student who is eager to grow and expand her skills both personally and professionally. She is excited to bring her empathetic and warm personality to the team and is eager to support clients and contribute in any way she can.
Raine is currently gaining hands-on experience in advocacy, mental health support, and community care. She holds a General Arts and Science Certificate and has previous experience working as an Early Childhood Educator, where she developed and strengthened her skills in communication, and care-based practice. Raine hopes to continue her education in the future by completing a Bachelor and then a Masters of Social Work.
Mini Charles
(she/her)
SSW Intern
Mini is a compassionate Indian woman and is a dedicated social service work student at Sheridan College, with a strong background in healthcare and community care. Deeply informs her culturally responsive and intersectional approach to service. Mini is committed to anti-oppressive, trauma-informed practice and brings empathy, cultural humility, and resilience to her work. She is passionate about supporting seniors, newcomers, caregivers, and racialized communities through strength-based, empowering programs that promote healing, independence, and well-being. Mini believes in creating inclusive spaces where every voice is heard and valued.
Nicole Luxton
(she/her)
BA
SSW Intern
Nicole is a Social Service Work student at Sheridan College, who is incredibly eager to pursue a career empowering and assisting a diverse set of individuals through life’s various challenges. Having recently graduated from the University of Guelph with a Bachelor of Arts concentrated in Psychology, the education she has received thus far has put her in a successful position to utilize the strengths & skills she’s acquired for positive community impact.
With experience in various administrative tasks, group facilitation, and leadership positions, the roles Nicole has encountered have further put her in a position to give back. Having experienced mental health challenges of her own, Nicole is inspired by her own journey — to make sure everyone feels heard, and that no one feels alone.