OCATT Therapist Biographies

Hi, I am Michelle.

I am a registered psychotherapist with the College of Registered psychotherapists of Ontario. I have a Master’s degree in psychotherapy and am also a certified Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy Practitioner, Consultant and Trainer.

I work from a trauma informed, attachment-focused perspective, drawing primarily on training in Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS informed), EMDR and SMART (Sensory Motor Affect Regulation Training.) My passion is working with families to help create lasting relationships of love, trust and belonging.

Now, with all that serious stuff out of the way, here’s a little bit more about me: I’ve lived a full life of raising three kids, and investing in the communities we’ve lived in. In the last few years I have learned to adjust to being an empty nester and have been able to provide relief foster parenting to some amazing youth. Life is full of good gifts: I enjoy exploring new places. I love playing the piano and singing, enjoy a hearty laugh and times away with close friends. And in the quiet times I love a cuppa tea and a good book. Gratitude for these and other good things are the ground of blessing under my feet in the twists and turns of life.

I began my journey as a counsellor working as a Child and Youth Counsellor 10 years ago and in doing so, discovered my passion for walking alongside people through their successes and life challenges. This discovery led me to pursue a B.A in psychology from Carleton University and a master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Ottawa. 

I am an integrative practitioner, rooted in attachment theory. While working from an attachment and holistic lens, I integrate other evidence-based approaches into my work with children, youth, adults, and families depending on the specific needs of each person – these include: Narrative therapy, Art Therapy, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Brainspotting, Family Systems Trauma Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.  I specialize in attachment disruptions, adoption support and children in care, trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and family support. 

My name is Mélanie Martel. To most, I’m Mel. I have been offering bilingual (English, français) psychotherapy and counselling services since 2011. I hold a Masters degree in Social Work as well as an honours degree in Psychology from the University of Ottawa. I am a member, in good standing, of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW, #819592) since 2010. I work from an attachment-centered, trauma-informed lens. I use an integrative approach, drawing on dyadic developmental psychotherapy (DDP; levels I and II), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) narrative therapy, brainspotting and safe and sound protocol. I receive clinical supervision from Psychologist Dr. Queenie Lo.

As a therapist, my style is relaxed, fluid and intuitive. I have the privilege of walking alongside children, youth and adults individually and I also work with parents and families. I genuinely and whole-heartedly believe in taking a collaborative approach to therapy and strive to establish a compassionate, non-judgemental, and person-centered environment. A little humour and playfulness also helps to bring a human touch!

I sincerely believe that everyone is doing the best that they can with what they know. Behind every problematic behaviour, recurring relational cycle or pattern, there’s a story. These are often stories of pain, resilience and adaptation. Left unchecked, they shape and influence our behaviour in the now, and within our relationships. In my experience, having our stories witnessed is a powerful way to disempower their hold on us.  Some of people’s deepest wounds have come at the hands of painful relationships. Conversely, relationships also hold the power of our most profound healing. We are wired to seek belonging. Learning to foster safe, authentic and attuned connections with those around us brings so much depth and richness to our lived experience.

Another guiding philosophy to my work is that when we know more about the inner workings of our bodies and minds, we experience much less of the crippling shame which keeps us feeling stuck, in pain, and alone. It is very important to include the body in the therapeutic experience.

On the personal side of things, I wear many hats. I am daughter to beautifully imperfect and loving parents. I am a sister to many, biologically and of my choosing. I am a partner to one very patient and compassionate human! I am also a mother to two affectionate, intuitive and perfectly imperfect children that can have me both crying and laughing mere minutes apart! I am both confident and proud of the woman I am today, while also being grateful to always be learning, shifting, evolving and deepening. I am at my most regulated when I am with my people, playing, creating, cuddling, and laughing. On my own, my most peaceful and refueling moments tend to happen on nature walks, while swimming or biking, and holding a paintbrush.

“The truest, most beautiful life never promises to be an easy one. We need to let go of the lie that it’s supposed to be.” – Glennon Doyle

Hi, I’m Kim. I am a registered psychotherapist who has worked in the mental health field for over 25 years. I currently work with people who are impacted by trauma, mood and personality disorders.

I often help people understand patterns that disrupt their lives, process trauma that may be ‘stuck in the body’, build stronger connections in their relationships and find ways to manage strong emotions.

Over the years I’ve been trained in many approaches. I have special interests in Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Applied Polyvagal Theory and have completed advanced training in Somatic Experiencing, a more body based approach to working with trauma.

I am often described as conversational, humorous and creative in my approach. This translates into my personal life as a single mom of two sensitive, spirited and hilarious humans. We share our home with 2 dogs and 3 cats which keeps life busy and interesting! 

Hi, I’m Daniela. I’m a Registered Psychotherapist with several years’ experience working across community, school-based, & private mental health settings. I am especially interested in working with children and teens in managing big emotions and difficult life experiences. I also enjoy working with parents and caregivers to help them better understand and connect with their children. I believe that my role as a therapist is to provide a secure, compassionate relationship in which my clients are able to share all parts of themselves without judgement. I’m so grateful to be able to work with people in this way.

My approach to psychotherapy is humanistic, attachment focused, & trauma-informed. I have training & experience with multiple modalities including Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Non-Directive Play Therapy, sensorimotor psychotherapy, working with intergenerational trauma, & trauma-informed care in addictions.
Outside of being a therapist, I’m a mom to one super awesome human & two (also very awesome) rescue dogs. I love cooking, reading, puzzles, & spending quality time with my husband & our little family. Thank you for taking the time to read this, I look forward to connecting with you!

Hi, I’m Mickeelie! I’m a Registered Psychotherapist with a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I work with children (ages 10+), teens, and adults who are seeking support for concerns related to trauma, attachment, life transitions, burnout, stress, relationships, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, and ADHD. I have particular experience working with adult women navigating trauma and life challenges, as well as with teens and young adults finding their way through the transition into adulthood.

My integrative approach is rooted in trauma-informed care and draws on attachment theory, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP, Levels 1 & 2), Internal Family Systems (IFS-informed), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT-informed), Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, polyvagal theory, and self-compassion practices.

I believe healing happens in the context of safe, authentic relationships. I strive to create a compassionate space where your whole self is welcomed, and where we can explore what matters most to you with care and curiosity. I trust in each person’s innate capacity for healing and connection, and I’ll journey alongside you as we uncover and strengthen those inner resources together.

Hi, my name is Michelle Desjardins, but I prefer to be called by my nickname, Shelly.

I have been working with children, youth, and families for over 30 years.

I am passionate about my work and root it in a Person-centred philosophy. I believe that everyone can be well, and succeed, when they are cared for and have the tools they need. Carl Rogers puts it well by saying, “It is that the individual has within himself or herself vast resources for self-understanding, for altering his or her self-concept, attitudes and self-directed behavior – and that these resources can be tapped if only a definable climate of facilitative psychological attitudes can be provided” (1980, p.115-117).

A Person-centred approach aligns well with attachment and trauma realities. When we understand how attachment impacts us, and those we care for, we can succeed in developing healthy relationships. Uncovering trauma, in a supportive and non-judgemental manner is also key to moving forward.

In my therapy practice I use an integrated approach that includes the following tools: Narrative therapy, Cognitive and Dialectical Behaviour therapy, Attachment and Developmental Trauma interventions. I have completed Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) levels 1 and 2 and chair a bi-monthly DDP Community of Practice Group. I am also a facilitator for Circle of Security Parenting (COSP).

My academic background includes a master’s degree in social work from Wilfrid Laurier University, a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Ottawa and a Childcare Worker (Child and Youth Counsellor) diploma from Algonquin College.

I began my career as a Child and Youth counsellor working on multi-disciplinary team for adolescent mental health at the Royal Ottawa Hospital. I appreciated the holistic approach of meeting the families needs.

Following this I joined the OCDSB’s specialized behaviour support worker with the Safe Schools program. This role included analysis, liaison with teachers and creating behavioural intervention plans.

I have now been with the Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa for over 15 years. At CAS I’ve had a wide range of experience, including: Adoption worker, Outside Paid Resource (OPR) Liaison and Placement worker and as a Child Protection worker with the Violence Against Women, Adolescent, and Indigenous Teams.

On a personal note, I love the outdoors including swimming, camping and skiing. In fact, I love skiing so much I was an instructor too! I have also raised two amazing, intelligent, kind, beautiful daughters – I feel blessed to be their mother!

Hi, I’m Jen. I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a Master of Arts in Counselling, Psychotherapy, and Spirituality from Saint Paul University. I’m passionate about supporting children and families through the challenges of big emotions, confusing behaviours, and disconnection. I believe that healing happens in relationships, and that parents have the power to become their child’s most important source of connection and security. I’m thrilled to be working with families like you here at OCATT.

My approach is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and curiosity. I draw on the Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) model, an attachment-focused, trauma-informed model that helps families rebuild trust, strengthen emotional bonds, and create new, healthier patterns. Together, we explore tricky moments with acceptance, empathy, and playfulness so your child feels understood and you feel more confident and connected in your role as a caregiver.

I’m also a mom to four energetic and curious kids who are my greatest teachers. Outside of the therapy room, I enjoy cooking, camping, skiing, or reading in a hammock, and I’m always eager to try new foods and games. I’m also a lifelong lover of stories in all forms. Some of my favourites are ones I’ve shared with my kids, like Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Anne of Green Gables. I’d love to hear which stories your child’s favourites are, too.

Hi I am Erin, and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), and have completed a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I have been working in the field of mental health and social services for 6 years, mainly in the areas of child welfare, family violence, gender-based violence, and system navigation. This has broadened my understanding of how the intersecting experiences of our lives inform the stories we tell ourselves. My approach to therapy is trauma informed, strengths based, and non-judgemental. I strive to create a warm and safe environment which honours the individual needs of each client I work with.

Prior to completing my masters degree, I pursued a degree in Fine Arts. This has allowed me to incorporate expressive arts techniques within session, for clients of all ages who are interested, or curious about this approach. Having worked with children and youth who are non-verbal, I have seen the benefits of using creative expression to explore the stories we hold within. I am interested in the approaches of Attachment Theory, Narrative Therapy and Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy. Outside of my work, you will find me spending time with my Golden Retriever, going camping, or listening to podcasts!”

I am a registered occupational therapist in the province of Ontario and graduated from Queen’s University with a Masters in Science in Occupational Therapy. I feel children are so incredible in the way that they bring play, learning about the world and each other into our lives with their enthusiasm, creativity and curious minds. I feel incredibly privileged to be able to work with children and their families as their occupational therapist.

Occupational Therapists (OTs) utilize a whole-systems, practical and person-centred approach to help clients and their families in strategies, advocacy, and treatment to help clients meet their goals. We look through a lens which captures the social, political, cultural, and physical environments. OTs are trained to not only take into account nervous system development, but tailor clients preferences, personal goals and family needs when collaborating with those involved in care to assess, create a care plan and follow through with treatment.

I currently work as an occupational therapist at On the Ball Pediatric Physio and Occupational Therapy, and I am so excited to have the opportunity to work and learn here at OCATT. I feel Occupational Therapy (OT) services are a key resource to add to a child’s support team – by helping children to learn more about themselves, build skills and strategies through a developmentally appropriate and meaningful approach, and work as a family unit to grow and learn! OT are often referred to as those who aid in ‘doing, being, becoming and belonging’ while complimenting additional professions such as the psychotherapists at OCATT.

My training has included:

• Bachelor of Physical Education in Health Promotion with Honours, Laurentian University
• Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Queen’s University
• Safe and Sound Protocol from Integrated Listening Systems
• Sensory Processing and Integration Approaches
• Currently Enrolled in: Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy Course

When I am not working, I can be found hiking, camping or paddling in the outdoors! When not outdoors, I can be found dancing, doing some DYI projects, and sharing quality time with loved ones!

I grew a passion for the mental health field while pursuing my undergraduate degree, which led me to complete my Master’s in Occupational Therapy at Queen’s University. After completing my degree, I knew I wanted to work in a pediatric setting. I have loved working with children and continue to be inspired by their resiliency, playfulness, and ability to find joy in the simple things.

I currently work at On the Ball Pediatric Physio and Occupational Therapy where we focus on the brain and body connection by helping children to regulate their nervous systems, to feel safe and connected, and supporting their physical, psychological, emotional and social development. As OTs, we work on achieving individualized goals that are meaningful to children and their families and ensuring their environment supports their engagement in activities at school, home, and in the community.

I am excited to be working alongside the amazing OTs and psychotherapists at OCATT!

Training has included:

• Honours Bachelor’s in Health Sciences, University of Ottawa
• Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MScOT), Queen’s University
• Neurological Approaches for Self-Regulation: for kids with Autism, ADHD and Sensory Disorders
• Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (Level 1) Course
• Currently enrolled in: Safe and Sound Protocol from Integrated Listening Systems

Working with children has been a passion of mine for so many years. I am a registered occupational therapist in the province of Ontario and graduated from McGill University in 1999. Learning about the brain and body connection has always been fascinating to me; I also completed a degree in Anatomy and Cell Biology prior to studying Occupational Therapy. After many years of working in hospitals, a rehabilitation center and various schools, I co-founded On the Ball Pediatric Physio and Occupational Therapy in Kanata with my physiotherapy colleague. It has been my honor to work with so many wonderful children, families, caregivers, and professionals. Since that time, I have enjoyed educating the public at various online and in-person conferences and workshops about the role that OT can play in helping children learn and grow. My work with traumatized children has led to a passion for integrating psychotherapy into my clinical practice. I’ve worked with children of all abilities in the past, including those with Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Developmental Disabilities, and various other neurological and psychiatric diagnoses.

I’ve travelled extensively in the United States to further my training in Sensory Integration, Trauma-informed care, and use hands-on techniques, activities, and games that are fun and rewarding for children to develop and strengthen the nervous system. I’ve become a “behavioral detective” and address the underlying reasons for difficulties with self-regulation. Occupational Therapists help people to become independent in their daily activities or “occupations”. Sometimes this may mean that an overactive nervous system can affect learning, interacting with others, or being able to focus on self-care activities. Children need to feel safe and connected to be able to self-regulate. I’ve enjoyed participating in joint sessions with the psychotherapists at OCATT. I help to organize the nervous system by working on the body and to provide sensory-motor interventions; this allows the child to express themselves more openly. It has brought therapy to the next level!

Post-professional training has included:

• Sensory Integration
• Psychosensory Interventions
• Trauma-Informed Occupational Therapy
• Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Levels 1 and 2
• Safe and Sound Protocol from Integrated Listening Systems
• Auditory Focus Program from Integrated Listening Systems
• Rhythmic Movement Levels 1 and 2 and Face the Fear Reflex Integration Courses
• Greenspan Floortime Approach
• Praxis : Sensory-Motor Learning / Coordination Challenges
• SOS (Sequential Oral-Sensory Approach to Feeding)
• Misophonia
• Attachment and Trauma / Polyvagal Theory
• Design of at-home / school sensory spaces

When I am not working, I can be found outside tending to my flower garden, swimming, travelling with my family, doing Pilates or driving my teenagers to soccer games.