Ushna holds a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from McMaster University, where she gained broad clinical experience across acute care, surgery, dementia care, and community mental health, with a particular focus on pediatric interventions and neurodevelopmental conditions.

Before entering graduate training, Ushna worked extensively with children and youth at the Learning Disabilities Association of Niagara Region and in autism research, where she supported the development of learning strategies and individualized programming. Her work included designing and implementing interventions for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and various behavioral impairments. She specialized in creating structured environments and evidence-based strategies to support self-regulation, social skills development, and adaptive behaviors in educational and community settings.

These experiences inspired her passion for supporting children and families in building skills for daily life, school success, and meaningful participation in their desired occupations. Ushna has developed particular passion in sensory processing interventions, behaviuoral modification techniques, and family-centered care approaches. She understands the unique challenges faced by children with neurodevelopmental differences and works collaboratively with families, educators, and multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans that address each child’s individual needs and strengths.

Through her clinical experiences, she developed strong skills in assessment, treatment planning, and collaborative care, with specialized training in pediatric assessment tools and intervention strategies for children with ASD, ADHD, and behavioral challenges. Her approach emphasizes building executive functioning skills, improving attention and focus, and developing coping strategies that can be generalized across home, school, and community environments.

In her spare time, Ushna enjoys reading, spending time with family & friends, cooking, and travelling.

Ushna holds a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from McMaster University, where she gaine... Read More

Katie is passionate about empowering clients in their healing and recovery journeys and find joy after life-changing events.

Katie is a Registered Occupational Therapist and is in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapy of Ontario. Katie is an occupational therapy graduate of McMaster University and a member of both the Ontario Society of Occupational Therapists and the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists.

Katie has experience in community-based rehabilitation with clients who have sustained traumatic and acquired brain injuries, chronic pain, and orthopedic injuries as well as mental health challenges.

During their spare time, Katie enjoys spending time with family, friends and her dog Tucker, being outdoors, travelling, baking, and crocheting.

Katie is passionate about empowering clients in their healing and recovery journeys and find joy ... Read More

Tamanna Bhalla has worked with adults and children across various clinical and school-based settings. She has specialized in providing rehabilitation services for individuals involved in motor vehicle accidents (MVAs), focusing on functional recovery. She works extensively in the assessment and treatment of individuals who have sustained acquired brain injuries, as well as musculoskeletal injuries and chronic pain.

In addition to her work with adults, Tamanna has significant expertise in pediatric occupational therapy. She worked in New York State in school-based settings, supporting children ages 3 to 12 years old with a wide range of needs. Tamanna provided individualized intervention for sensory processing disorders, autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorders, self-regulation and social thinking difficulties, as well as handwriting challenges. She is passionate about working with children because she believes in the importance of early intervention and the profound impact occupational therapy can have on a child’s confidence, independence, and ability to participate fully in school and daily life. She finds great fulfillment in helping children overcome barriers and achieve their developmental milestones.

Tamanna graduated with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Toronto in 2021 and went on to earn her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. She has obtained her American Occupational Therapy licensing and is also a member in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario.

In her spare time, Tamanna enjoys taking her dog on hikes, practicing Pilates, reading, and spending quality time with her family and friends.

Tamanna Bhalla has worked with adults and children across various clinical and school-based setti... Read More

Maddie recently completed her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at McMaster University, where she gained diverse clinical experience across acute stroke care, medical and surgical rehabilitation, school-based pediatrics, early years pediatrics in a physical/medical infancy program, and community mental health. Through placements at Niagara Health, Niagara Children’s Centre, and Niagara Region Public Health, Maddie developed strong skills in assessment, intervention planning, family centered care, and interprofessional collaboration. Her work included supporting children in both school-based and early years programs, as well as assisting adults in recovery from neurological and medical conditions. Prior to completing her masters, Maddie earned a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Studies with a minor in Psychology from Brock University, where she built a strong foundation in child development and family-centered care. Maddie is passionate about working with children and families to promote participation, independence, and confidence in meaningful daily activities. She also values building supportive relationships with clients of all ages as they work toward their rehabilitation goals. In her spare time, Maddie enjoys spending time outside with her dog, reading, and being with family and friends. SPECIALIZED CERTIFICATION First Aid and CPR Training MoCA Certified (2025) MY EXPERTISE ● Pediatric assessment and treatment ● School-based and community support ● Visual motor and fine motor skill development ● Cognitive and sensory assessment strategies ● Play-based intervention ● Emotional regulation strategies ● Parent and caregiver collaboration and support ● Child development promotion ● Neurological rehabilitation (stroke, ABI)

Maddie recently completed her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at McMaster University, w... Read More

With over five years of experience as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, Tessa is passionate about delivering client-centered care that empowers individuals across the lifespan to achieve their fullest potential. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a focus in Child and Family Studies from the University of Guelph and completed her OTA/PTA certificate at Niagara College. Working under the direction of occupational therapists, Tessa has developed particular expertise in supporting pediatric clients facing developmental and literacy challenges. She collaborates closely with children and their families to address fine motor skills, visual-motor integration, sensory processing, and pre-writing/writing abilities—creating engaging, play-based interventions that build confidence and foster essential foundational skills for academic success and daily functioning. Committed to advancing her clinical expertise, Tessa has pursued specialized training through the Ontario Brain Injury Association, enhancing her skills in brain injury rehabilitation across both pediatric and adult populations. Her evidence-based approach emphasizes collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and families, helping clients reach meaningful goals that promote independence and enhance overall quality of life. Beyond her clinical work, Tessa serves as Director of Junior Tennis at the NOTL Tennis Club, plays hockey, and embraces an active outdoor lifestyle—bringing the same energy, patience, and dedication to her personal pursuits as she does to her therapeutic practice.

With over five years of experience as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, Tessa is passionate abou... Read More

Marissa is a dedicated Occupational Therapist with extensive experience working with diverse populations across the lifespan. She specializes in both pediatric and adolescent interventions, as well as motor vehicle accident rehabilitation, providing comprehensive care to clients facing a wide range of challenges.

In her pediatric practice, Marissa focuses on helping young clients overcome physical, emotional, and behavioral challenges including emotional regulation difficulties, fine and gross motor delays, sensory processing issues, and life skills development needs. For motor vehicle accident clients, she conducts thorough functional assessments and develops individualized treatment plans in accordance with the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule. Her expertise extends to completing Disability Certificates (OCF-3) and Treatment Plans (OCF-18), as well as conducting In-Home Functional Assessments, Functional Cognitive Assessments, and Worksite Assessments to support rehabilitation following accidents.

Marissa excels in hospital discharge planning and community-based rehabilitation, where she develops individualized care plans addressing home and vehicle accessibility, equipment needs, community reintegration, activities of daily living training, and cognitive remediation.

Her assessment toolkit includes standardized measures such as the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), McMaster Handwriting Assessment, Movement ABC, Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration, Sensory Profile, and various additional assessments, allowing her to provide evidence-based interventions tailored to each client’s unique needs. Marissa additional runs our Hand Writing Programs out of the Grimsby and St. Catharines clinic locations.

With a client-centered approach and commitment to ongoing evaluation and adaptation of treatment strategies, Marissa empowers individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their maximum potential in daily living, education, and community participation.

During her spare time, Marissa enjoys travelling, spending time with family and friends, and trying out local coffee shops, restaurants and wineries.

Marissa is a dedicated Occupational Therapist with extensive experience working with diverse popu... Read More

Erica Murray is a passionate and experienced Registered Occupational Therapist with over 4 years of clinical practice. She is in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario and is a graduate of the University of Toronto. Her career has been dedicated to supporting individuals recovering from traumatic and life-altering events across diverse populations and age groups.

Erica has extensive experience in community-based rehabilitation, working with clients affected by acquired and traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, chronic pain, orthopedic conditions, and mental health challenges. Her expertise also extends to pediatric care, where she specializes in supporting children with autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, and sensory processing challenges. She is skilled in addressing emotional regulation difficulties, social skills development, fine and gross motor delays, and activities of daily living training for young clients.

In her work with children with autism and developmental disabilities, Erica employs evidence-based interventions to support sensory integration, communication development, and behavioral strategies that promote independence and participation in home, school, and community settings. She collaborates closely with families, educators, and interdisciplinary teams to create comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each child’s unique strengths and needs.

Her work spans both public and private healthcare sectors, allowing her to bring a well-rounded and compassionate approach to client care. Erica excels in developing individualized care plans that address accessibility needs, equipment recommendations, and community reintegration strategies for clients of all ages.

With a client-centered approach and commitment to ongoing evaluation and adaptation of treatment strategies, Erica empowers individuals and families to overcome obstacles and achieve their maximum potential in daily living, education, and community participation.

Erica Murray is a passionate and experienced Registered Occupational Therapist with over 4 years ... Read More

Areas of Expertise: Pediatrics Traumatic Brain Injury

Service Area: GTA & Oakville Clinic

BIO: Eva Bajwa is a registered Occupational Therapist in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario (COTO). Eva graduated with a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Glasgow Caledonian University and a Bachelor of Health Sciences, with a major in Rehabilitation Science, from the University of Western Ontario.

Eva has clinical experience with inpatient major trauma rehabilitation, community-based practice and paediatric clinics. In paediatrics, Eva’s areas of expertise include sensory processing disorders, autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorders, difficulties with self-regulation and social thinking as well as handwriting challenges. She has utilized frameworks including the Social Thinking Curriculum and Zones of Regulation. From fostering sensory and emotional regulation to improving motor skills to address daily living skills, her goal is to empower children and their families to thrive together. In adult populations, Eva has experience in the assessment and treatment of individuals with traumatic brain injury, complex musculoskeletal injuries and age-related declines. Eva has also contributed to program development including service wide functional literacy groups, and community inclusion initiatives.

SPECIALIZED CERTIFICATION - First Aide/CPR Training - Non violent Crisis Intervention training

MY EXPERTISE - Brain Injury Rehabilitation - Cognitive and Functional Assessments - Hospital Discharge Planning - Pediatric Therapy Interventions; developing skills to thrive at home, school and within the community

Areas of Expertise: Pediatrics Traumatic Brain Injury Service Area: GTA & Oakville Clinic B... Read More

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Joel Burgess is an Occupational Therapist who works with adults and children to support their recovery and independence in everyday life. He provides functional rehabilitation in community settings, helping people manage the effects of acquired brain injuries, musculoskeletal conditions, and chronic pain. Joel is passionate about helping his clients get back to the activities that matter most to them, using a practical, goal-focused, and compassionate approach.

He earned his Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Western University and is a registered member in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario.

Outside of work, Joel enjoys spending time with his family and friends, playing with his dogs, and unwinding with sports or a good TV show.

Joel Burgess is an Occupational Therapist who works with adults and children to support their rec... Read More

Ms. Katherine Tang is a Registered Occupational Therapist in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario and is a member of the Ontario Society of Occupational Therapists (OSOT). Katherine has experience working both in acute rehab in hospital settings and providing in-home services in the community, as well as significant experience in working with pediatric populations.

In her pediatric practice, Katherine specializes in supporting children with developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and various physical and cognitive challenges. She is skilled in addressing fine and gross motor delays, sensory processing issues, emotional regulation difficulties, and activities of daily living training for young clients. Katherine works collaboratively with families, educators, and interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive, individualized treatment plans that promote independence and participation in home, school, and community environments.

She holds a Bachelors of Health Sciences (Honours) degree from McMaster University and a Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from McMaster University.

Outside of her professional role, Katherine enjoys arts and crafts and going to the gym. She is passionate about lifelong learning and advocacy for LGBT+ youth, and she finds balance by staying engaged in spending time with family and friends.

Ms. Katherine Tang is a Registered Occupational Therapist in good standing with the College of Oc... Read More

COTO: G1308946

####Occupational Therapist ####Email: leaht@innovativeot.com ####Languages Spoken: English ####Geographical Region: Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland County, Durham, and Virtual therapy

Areas of Expertise:

• Adult and Geriatric Rehabilitation, including brain injury, complex orthopaedic injury, mental health impairments
• Occupational Therapy
• Medical Legal Assessments
• Assessment of Catastrophic Injuries
• Functional Cognitive Assessments
• Concussion Management
• Cognitive Assessment and Rehabilitation
• ADP (Assistive Devices Program; Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care) Authorizer for Ambulation Aids, Seating, Wheelchairs (manual), and Wheelchairs (power)

BIO:

Leah Topping is committed to guiding clients through recovery and helping them flourish after trauma and major life changes.

Leah has more than 12 years of experience working as a Registered Occupational Therapist and is in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario (COTO). She is an occupational therapy graduate of Queen’s University and a member of the Ontario Society of Occupational Therapist (OSOT). She holds Certification in Medical-Legal Expertise (CMLE) and is member of the Canadian Society of Medical Evaluators (CSME) www.csme.org.

Leah has extensive experience in rehabilitation with clients who have sustained traumatic brain injuries, chronic pain, various orthopaedic injuries, and mental health conditions. She has a special interest in concussion management and occupational rehabilitation/return to work planning, and her clinical background includes both public and private sector roles.

She is dedicated to continuing her professional development and has participated in various workshops in the following topics: - Cognitive Assessment and Rehabilitation - Concussion Management - TBI - Ergonomics - Return to Work - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) - Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) - Prolonged Exposure therapy and desensitization protocols - Poly Vagal Theory - Sleep Hygiene and Insomnia - Chronic pan management - Mobility aids and adaptive devices

Outside of work, Leah enjoys family time, board games, Zumba, and learning to watercolour paint.

Certification/Qualifications:

• Certification in Medical-Legal Expertise (CMLE)
• Certified Progressive Goal Attainment Program (PGAP) provider
• WorkWell certified Functional Capacity Evaluator (FCE)
• Assistive Devices Program (ADP) authorizer for mobility aids
• Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)

COTO: G1308946 ####Occupational Therapist ####Email: leaht@innovativeot.com ####Languages Spoke... Read More

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Rachel Lee is passionate about helping people recover and thrive after traumatic and life-changing events.

She is a Registered Occupational Therapist with over 2 years of experience and is in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapy of Ontario. She is an occupational therapy graduate of McMaster University and a member of both the Ontario Society of Occupational Therapists and the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists. Rachel has extensive experience in clinic- and community-based rehabilitation with clients who have sustained traumatic and acquired brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, chronic pain and various orthopaedic injuries as well as mental health issues. Her clinical experience has been in both the public and private sectors.

During her spare time, Rachel enjoys spending time with friends and family and exploring good eats in the city.

Rachel Lee is passionate about helping people recover and thrive after traumatic and life-changin... Read More

Mackenzie is a member in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario and a member of the Ontario Society of Occupational Therapists (OSOT). She graduated with a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Toronto. Prior to this, she completed a Bachelor of Child Health with a minor in Psychology from Brock University and a diploma in Concurrent Disorders (mental health and addictions) from Mohawk College. Mackenzie has experience supporting individuals across the lifespan including children, adults, and older adults. Her experience spans mental health conditions, acquired brain injuries, neurological disorders, musculoskeletal impairments, and amputations, and she has worked in various settings such as the community, hospital, and private practice. She is extremely passionate about assisting and providing clients with tools and strategies to maximize their safety and independence in everyday activities. Mackenzie holds specialized certifications in the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), and Mental Health First Aid (MHFA). She has extensive experience in conducting home safety assessments and recommending and prescribing mobility and communication equipment through the Assistive Devices Program (ADP). Throughout her OT program, Mackenzie has also completed research in concussions and is eager to bring her knowledge into practice. Mackenzie brings a professional and compassionate approach to her practice. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring the outdoors through long walks and hikes, playing hockey, and going to concerts.

Mackenzie is a member in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario and... Read More

Sydney Livermore is a registered Occupational Therapist in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario (COTO). She is also a member of the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) and the Ontario Society of Occupational Therapists (OSOT). Sydney earned her Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from McMaster University and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports and Exercise Healthcare, with a Minor in Psychology, from Canisius University (Buffalo, NY), graduating Magna Cum Laude.

Sydney brings diverse experience in occupational therapy, having worked with individuals across the entire human lifespan, from premature infants to geriatrics. Her clinical foundation includes assessments and treatments for an extensive range of conditions, such as psycho-emotional, orthopedic, and physical/mental trauma. Sydney’s clinical experience spans various settings, including intensive care units, acute trauma inpatient units, and outpatient specialty clinics. These experiences have enabled Sydney to become highly proficient in functional assessments and fully adept at meeting the demands of the motor vehicle accident field.

When she is not working, Sydney enjoys spending time with family, her two dogs and staying active. You will find her reading fantasy books, watching/playing sports or working on her mindfulness.

Sydney Livermore is a registered Occupational Therapist in good standing with the College of Occu... Read More

Cailey has been practicing as an Occupational Therapist since 2020, with a particular passion for working with individuals with acquired brain injuries. She has developed extensive expertise in the comprehensive assessment and treatment of clients with traumatic brain injuries, and other acquired neurological conditions, understanding the profound impact these injuries have on every aspect of daily life.

Drawing from her deep understanding of neuroplasticity and evidence-based rehabilitation approaches, Cailey specializes in developing individualized treatment plans that address cognitive, physical, and psychosocial challenges. She is particularly skilled at helping clients and their families navigate the complex journey of brain injury recovery, from acute care settings through community reintegration. Her approach emphasizes functional independence, adaptive strategies, and quality of life restoration.

Beyond brain injury, Cailey has extensive experience treating musculoskeletal conditions and mental health challenges resulting from motor vehicle accidents, workplace or sports injuries, and falls. In her previous role, she also served as the Team Lead for the Occupational Therapy department, where she mentored colleagues in acquired brain injury best practices.

Cailey completed a Bachelor of Science at the University of Waterloo before earning her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at Western University in 2020. She is a registered Occupational Therapist in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario and is committed to ongoing professional development in neurological rehabilitation.

In her spare time, Cailey enjoys travelling, hiking, camping, reading, and spending time with her family, fiancé, and cat.

Cailey has been practicing as an Occupational Therapist since 2020, with a particular passion for... Read More