Renae is a Canadian Certified Counsellor and Behavioural Therapist with a background in human development, specializing in children, youth and families. She has years of experience working with children with developmental differences, and it is her passion to help children, youth and families experience success and confidence. Renae is certified with the Canadian Counselling and Psychology Association, as a Play Therapist with the Canadian Association For Play Therapy, and as an Accelerated Resolution Therapist (ART). She also holds certifications in ATTACH, ASIST, Brain Story, Emotional Literacy, Mandt, Nurturing Parent Facilitation, Trans Wellness Initiative, Trauma Informed Care (TIC), and Mental Health First Aid. Renae works through a person-centered lens, as every child and family is unique, and support them in a way that works best for them, using evidence based practices.

Renae is a Canadian Certified Counsellor and Behavioural Therapist with a background in human dev... Read More

Shaun obtained his Masters degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from McGill University. He is passionate about helping his clients of all ages improve their communication skills. Shaun is a fun, energetic, and dedicated clinician, who loves to “think outside the box” during therapy to motivate his clients to communicate. Shaun has worked with a variety of populations over the past decade but has a particular fondness for complex communicators and those using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Additionally, Shaun is a strong believer in professional development and has facilitated on topics related to AAC on both a local and international level.

When not working, Shaun enjoys being a goofy kid with his two daughters and wife, spending time with family and playing board games.

Shaun obtained his Masters degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from McGill University.... Read More

Sydney grew up in Okotoks, AB, and graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Integrated Studies with a minor in Psychology from the University of Calgary. She then completed her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario.

Sydney has worked with individuals with disabilities of all ages for over 3 years and aspires to provide the best support and services for each client. She has a special soft spot for the pediatric population.

With her background in music, Sydney integrates music into her occupational therapy practice to introduce the therapeutic benefits music has for many individuals in her care.

Sydney grew up in Okotoks, AB, and graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Integrated Studies with ... Read More

Dipika has a Master’s degree in Neuro-Pediatrics, completed her PhD in Pediatric Physiotherapy in 2018, and was Assistant Professor and in charge of the Department of Pediatric Physiotherapy in Charusat University in India. Over the years, she has taken part in numerous speaking engagements and has presented her research on a global level. She has worked with children with developmental delays of various age groups in schools, outpatient clinics and in the community, as well as guided other physiotherapists with their treatment approach. Her therapeutic toolbox comprises of Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT), Sensory Integration, and Myofacial Release Therapy (MFR) approaches, which enabled her to strategize the treatment and progress of her patients. Dipika was also involved in training of Indian Paralympics athletes, children participating in other national level sports events, and provided therapeutic community outreach services to two orphanages. Since moving to Canada and starting at the Candian Centre for Development, Dipika has obtained her Level C Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) certification, a technique which stimulates neuroplasticity and thereby facilitating new neuronal connections linked to the achievement of motor milestones. Dipika has also completed training in TheraTogs, specialized techniques for Cystic Fibrosis, she’s a Posture and Alignment Specialist and is certified in Airway Clearance therapy.

On a personal front, she likes sketching and reading, exploring nature through hikes, and camping with her family.

Dipika has a Master’s degree in Neuro-Pediatrics, completed her PhD in Pediatric Physiotherapy in... Read More

Jessica graduated from the University of Alberta with a Master of Science in Physical Therapy. She has a special interest in helping children reach their full potential and has honed her skills in providing specialized care for the pediatric population. Jessica has her Cuevas Medek Exercise (CME) certification and has delivered on dozens of therapy intensives with children of all ages and abilities. She also has a background in providing hand physiotherapy services, and is certified in Spinal Electrical Stimulation.

With experience in outpatient settings, she assesses and treats a wide range of pediatric conditions, including musculoskeletal disorders, developmental delays, and neurological conditions. Her approach involves creating individualized treatment plans using evidence-based techniques and therapeutic exercises to promote physical development and functional abilities.

Additionally, Jessica gained valuable experience at the Stollery Children’s Hospital, working with children who require specialized care due to acute illnesses, surgeries, or complex medical conditions. She is skilled at managing pain, improving mobility, and fostering a compassionate atmosphere for her young patients and their families.

She remains committed to professional development and stays updated on the latest advancements in pediatric physiotherapy. Her approach emphasizes trust-building, effective communication with children and their families, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team for comprehensive care.

Outside the clinic, Jessica enjoys rock climbing at the local gym and exploring the culinary scene of the city.

Jessica graduated from the University of Alberta with a Master of Science in Physical Therapy. Sh... Read More

Patricia has been practicing massage for over two decades and has grown her toolbox of techniques to accommodate any client, big or small, no matter their concerns. Some techniques and experience that we’re especially excited for her to bring to our clinic are her Liddle Kidz Pediatric Massage certification, trigger point therapy, neuromuscular facilitation techniques, TMJ active and motion release techniques, her years of doing pre and post-natal massage, reflexology, myofascial and fascial work, side-lying position massage, scar tissue massage, and more.

Patricia has been practicing massage for over two decades and has grown her toolbox of techniques... Read More

Jenn has over 20 years experience and is passionate about helping children of all ages overcome sensory, fine-motor/writing, and self-care challenges (feeding, bathing, dressing). She believes in the power of a collaborative approach and works closely with parents to develop tailored solutions that best support their child’s unique needs. Her goal is to create a positive and encouraging environment where children can build confidence and reach their full potential. Over the years, Jenn has pursued professional development in Interception with Kelly Maher, Autism intervention with Kim Barthel, feeding interventions with Marsha Dunn Klein, the Wilbarger Protocol with Patricia Wilbarger, Sensory Profiling with Winnie Dunn, and trauma-informed care.

Jenn is dedicated to using evidence-based practices and innovative techniques to ensure that each child receives the highest quality of care. Whether it’s through playful activities that enhance sensory integration, targeted exercises to improve fine motor control, or creative strategies to support daily self-care tasks, she strives to make therapy both effective and enjoyable. She is committed to empowering families and fostering the development of skills that will have a lasting impact on the child’s life.

She believes that, together, we can navigate the challenges and celebrate the successes, making each step of the journey a rewarding experience for both the child and their family.

Jenn has over 20 years experience and is passionate about helping children of all ages overcome s... Read More

Special Interests: motor speech disorders, tongue ties (ToTs), feeding, orofacial myology, complex articulation disorders

Natalie was born and raised in Calgary, Alberta and earned her B.Sc. in Speech Pathology and Audiology from the University of Alberta in 1991 and her Master’s degree in Communicative Disorders from the University of Western Ontario in 1993. She has worked with children in various settings from Headstart programs to community health centres to private practice. Natalie has worked with children of all ages and diagnoses and holds a special place in her heart for babies; she especially enjoys working with families to facilitate early communication and feeding skills. She enjoys collaborating with other professionals as each team member provides a critical piece to the rehabilitation process.

Natalie enjoys working with parents both 1:1 and through presentations. “Parents are a child’s best advocate so the more they know about how to help their child, the better chance their child has of success.” Committed to ongoing professional development, Natalie has most recently taken Beckman Oral Motor training, oral myology coursework and oral-motor placement therapy.

When she’s not wearing her speech therapist hat, you can find Natalie working in her garden, cycling through the county, out camping or curled up with a good book.

Special Interests: motor speech disorders, tongue ties (ToTs), feeding, orofacial myology, comple... Read More

Randi Carlson was born and raised in Weyburn, Saskatchewan. She holds a B.Sc. in Psychology from Briercrest College and Seminary and a B.Sc. in Communication Disorders from Minot State University, where she also earned her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology.

With experience working with children of all ages and adults, Randi’s passion for early development began during her time as an Early Childhood Educator. She thrives in both one-on-one and group settings, working closely with children and their caregivers to build skills collaboratively. She believes that empowering families as a whole is key to helping every child reach their full potential.

Randi has enjoyed working with children of all abilities and is excited to build meaningful connections with the families she serves.

Randi Carlson was born and raised in Weyburn, Saskatchewan. She holds a B.Sc. in Psychology from ... Read More

Special Interests: Neuromotor Development in children, Cuevas Medek Exercise (CME), Rebound Therapy and Therapeutic Trampolining, Core Strength Training

Shivani began her physiotherapy journey in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy, and later achieving her Master’s of Physiotherapy in Neurological conditions in 2018.

Prior to moving to Alberta in 2023, she worked as a pediatric physiotherapist in Ontario, which is also where she completed her Cuevas Medek Exercise (CME) certification with Simona DeMarchi.

Shivani is a lifelong learner, never passing up an opportunity to expand her knowledge for providing physiotherapy care to her clients. Her specialization lies in offering physiotherapy services to pediatric clients with gross motor concerns stemming from various conditions, including but not limited to torticollis, plagiocephaly, gross motor delay, global developmental delay, genetic conditions, cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder. What truly sets Shivani apart is her creative approach to delivering care to children with special abilities using skills and tools she has gathered as part of continuing education. She has gained knowledge and certification in NDT for paediatrics, CME, and Rebound Therapy and Therapeutic Trampolining.

She also has a strong passion for developing core strength training program tailored specifically for children.

In her personal life, Shivani is an avid nature enthusiast, often embarking on hikes with her husband and camping adventures with her friends.

Special Interests: Neuromotor Development in children, Cuevas Medek Exercise (CME), Rebound Thera... Read More

Lydia was born and raised in Calgary, AB and graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Calgary. She later called Ontario home when attending Queen’s University in Kingston when completing her Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy. Her experience involves over 10 years working professionally with children in areas such as youth coaching, private agencies, working within homes, and various organizations and programs for children with neuromotor disabilities, developmental delays, and various other disabilities. Lydia has a strong passion in working with children and youth in a holistic and family-centred manner as a way to establish and accomplish meaningful goals, valuing trust and respect to provide compassionate service. When not working with kiddos and their families, Lydia loves to enjoy traveling to new places, eating great food, reading, playing board games, and spending time with family and friends.

Lydia was born and raised in Calgary, AB and graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology... Read More

Danielle is passionate about helping families achieve their goals. She works to help children obtain optimal development through movement. She currently holds a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Kinetics. Danielle has experience working with children of all ages and backgrounds. She completed a pediatric placement at a child development center as a Physiotherapy student. In addition, she worked as a swim instructor and coached children in various sports for over five years. Outside of work, Danielle likes to remain active and likes to spend her weekends in the mountains. She is very excited to work with children and strives to make therapy fun, family-centered and goal-oriented.

Danielle is passionate about helping families achieve their goals. She works to help children obt... Read More

Rachel is a dedicated Behavioural Therapist with Master’s degrees in Psychology and Social Work, specializing in supporting children with diverse developmental needs. Using a neuroaffirming approach, she focuses on fostering emotional regulation skills and play skills. I work closely with families to create practical, individualized strategies that empower children to thrive and reach their full potential.

Rachel supports families in CCD’s facilities, in the home and out in the community.

Rachel is a dedicated Behavioural Therapist with Master’s degrees in Psychology and Social Work, ... Read More

Breanna was born and raised in Calgary, AB. She has a Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant diploma from SAIT and has a passion for working with children with disabilities. She has worked with children since 2020 and is excited to learn and grow. She is compassionate, kind and patient with people in all walks of life – clients and colleagues alike.

In her free time, Breanna is very artistic and loves to paint and make earrings. She enjoys camping, being outdoors, and taking spontaneous adventures. She loves to bring her artistic side to her therapy sessions to keep children engaged with activities.

Breanna was born and raised in Calgary, AB. She has a Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant diploma fr... Read More

Kanika was raised in Edmonton and has had a passion for physiotherapy from a young age. Kanika is Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) certified, is certified in Acupuncture, and is also a Concussion Assessment and Treatment Specialist. She has mild CP and has spent several years in physiotherapy as a child working on improving her own walking. This cemented her interest in physiotherapy and she decided to travel to the land down under to pursue her Doctorate of Physiotherapy from Macquarie University in Sydney. Throughout her schooling and upon graduation she spent a significant amount of time volunteering with special-needs children. Professionally she has been working in the private practice sphere for the last 5 years and is excited to focus more on the pediatric population. Kanika started working at Canadian Centre for Development in the spring in 2023 and has been implementing all things that are unique to our centre, from DMI to the Trexo Robot with all her clients.

In her personal life, Kanika keeps herself busy with weekend family outings and staying active in the gym, hiking, or cycling.

Kanika was raised in Edmonton and has had a passion for physiotherapy from a young age. Kanika is... Read More

FOR PHYSIOTHERAPISTS AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS: SUSAN HASTINGS UPCOMING LECTURE AND LAB EVENT IS ON FEB 7-9, 2025. Dr. Susan Hastings, PT, DPT, PCS is a Board-Certified Pediatric Certified Specialist, who graduated from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP) in 2010, with a DPT, specializing in Pediatrics. In 2019, she began a novel collaboration with Dr. V. Reggie Edgerton and Dr. Parag Gad from the Edgerton Research Lab at UCLA to study transcutaneous neuromodulation in children with CP. After co-authoring 3 research papers on spinal neuromodulation with Drs. Edgerton and Gad in collaboration with SpineX, and preparing for Phase 2 trials for the SpineX device, Dr. Hastings is now assisting Dr. Edgerton and Dr. Charles Liu in expanding Dr. Edgerton’s lifetime work in studying spinal cord neuromodulation at the Impossible to Possible CP Lab at Rancho Research Institute, with an emphasis on exploring comprehensive effects on sensory motor impairments in children with CP.

“For the past 25 years, I have used functional electrical stimulation in children with cerebral palsy to improve functional skills, range of motion, and strength, which helped so many children. It was not until I first used transcutaneous spinal neuromodulation that I began to see what seemed to be impossible, become more attainable for most, if not all patients with CP. My passion is to learn even more, find new applications, and share this information with all who deal with the consequences of CP in their lives.” Dr. Hastings currently teaches continuing education classes for therapists, and was recently invited to become a founding member of Clinical Experts Online (CEO), a small group of therapists brought together to advance therapy knowledge for all pediatric therapists. She has taught numerous electrical stimulation and Whole-Body Vibration (WBV) classes both nationally and internationally.

FOR PHYSIOTHERAPISTS AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS: SUSAN HASTINGS UPCOMING LECTURE AND LAB EVENT I... Read More