Finding the Way Learning Centre was formed in 2003 in response to a verbalised need for a program to focus on play and the development of social skills. Since then, we have developed a reputation for providing superior care in a safe, stimulating environment where children between the ages of 2 and 14 are taught skills through methods which include ABA, Verbal Behaviour and Direct Instruction as well as a specialized education program for students who need the additional guidance.
Our Mission
Our mission is to foster self confidence and independence in each child living with Autism Spectrum Disorder, helping them to become integrated members of their society.
Our Team
Our company is based on the belief that our customers' needs are of the utmost importance. Our entire team is committed to meeting those needs. As a result, a high percentage of our business is from repeat customers and referrals. We have posted only a couple of staff to show you the highlights of what our valuable staff bring to our Centre and Academy.
We would welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver you the best service in the industry.
Allie Offman, Owner and Founder
Upon discovering her son had Autism, Allie left her profession as a registered nurse and built a career dedicated to helping her son and daughter and those like them. Allie has been working in the field of Applied Behavioral Analysis for ten years. Allie has become a Parent Practioner through the Florida Institute of Technology Program. To contact Allie, please e-mail her at allie@ftwlcacademy.com
Dr. James Porter, Ph.D. C. Psych. Licensed Psychologist
Dr Porter is a licensed practitioner in the field of Autism and Acquired Brain Injury. Aside from his private practice, he is a psychology professor at Brock University and is the President of the Canadian Association for Behavioral Analysis. Dr. Porter completed his Ph. D. and M.A. in psychology with a focus on Behavior Analysis from the University of Nevada. He also holds a biopsychology M.A. from Lakehead University. As our clinical psychologist, Dr. Porter consults with families and oversees programs for both our funded and non funded-clients. Dr. Porter also works along with our staff during child reviews, to ensure staff are receiving the appropriate feedback.
Dr Porter is able to perform psychoeducational assessments as well as work with others to ensure we have the correct diagnostic evalautations to ensure your child has the best program possible.
Kristina McAdam, Senior Therapist
Kristina graduated from Guelph University with a degree in Psychology and proceeded to obtain a certificate in Autism and Behavioral Science from Seneca College. Kristina is currently completing her Masters of Applied Disability Studies, in Applied Behaviour Analysis at Brock University and working towards her BCBA Certification. Kristina completed her work-field placement at York Central Hospital, and has over four years experience working with children with Autism. Kristina can be contacted directly at Kristina@ftwlcacademy.com. As a Senior Therapist, Kristina works directly our our Clinical Psychologist to develop programs based on each child's individual abilities and goals. She also works to assist Instructor Therapists in tracking children's progress to make for optimal individual success.
Instructor Therapists
All Instructor Therapists working with our children have experience working with children with Autism and other Learning Exceptionalities. Each one of our staff are trained in ABA. Our staff are certified through the Autism and Behavioural Science Program whichy is offered through an Accredited College. Staff also have a minimum of 1 year of experience working directly with children with Autism and other Learning Exceptionalities. Staff are supervised on an ongoing basis under the role of a Senior Therapist and/or Psychologist.
Ashley Pitre, Lead Teacher
Ashley holds a Bachelor of Education degree from Brock University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wilfrid Laurier University. During her time spent at Wilfird Laurier, Ashley majored in psychology and minored in sociology. She has taken additional courses in educating exceptional children and understanding child development. Ashley also has experience working with and teaching students that have various exceptionalities. She is very familiar with the curriculum and is able to modify it to meet the needs of each student. Her lesson plans and assessments are designed in a comprehensive, step-by-step fashion that allows each student to successfully navigate their way through the world of academia.
Teaching Staff
All teaching staff are Ontario Certified Teachers or have an equivalent Teaching Degree from another province or country. Our staff all have a minimum of 1 years experience working with students with Learning Exceptionalities. Our teaching staff receive ongoing training in Special Ed qualifications an in ABA techniques.
All of our Teaching Staff are trained in modifying Curriculum to meet the needs of individual children. They are trained in graphing and data management in order to ensure they are keeping up with the standards of ABA.
