Behavioural Team
Ida Chung, M.ADS., BCBA
Founder and Clinical Director
Highlight of Qualification:
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Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®)
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Master’s degree in Applied Disabilities Studies (M.ADS) with specialization of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)
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Met Requirements of Supervision for those who are pursuing BCBA, BCaBA or RBT.
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Listed as Clinical Supervisor for Ontario Autism Program (OAP)
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Professor at Humber College in the Bachelor of Behavioural Science Program
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Currently pursuing Ph.D in Psychology, with specialization in Behavior Analysis
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Additional Certifications:
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Promoting Emergence of Advanced Knowledge (PEAK) Level 1 and 2
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Early Start Denver Model Introductory Course (ESDM)
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Facing Your Fear (FYF)
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Certified Safety Care Trainer
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Certified Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) Level 1
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Certified Pivotal Response Training (PRT) Level 1
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Canadian Red Cross FirstAid CPR/AED Standard C Certification
Meet Ida: A Dedicated Advocate for Your Child's Growth and Development
Ida is more than just a Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®); she's the heart and soul behind Glowing Growth Autism Services Inc. Her journey is fueled by an unwavering passion for children's education and development, a commitment to empowering families, and an unshakeable belief in the transformative power of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Ida's Credentials and Dedication:
Ida holds a Master's degree in Applied Disabilities Studies (M.ADS) with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from Brock University, along with an Honors B.A. in Contemporary Studies with a focus on Children's Education and Development, a minor in Health Studies and Psychology, from Wilfrid Laurier University, providing her with a robust academic foundation.
However, her thirst for knowledge doesn't end there. Ida is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Psychology, with a specialization in ABA, demonstrating her commitment to staying at the forefront of the field. Ida also actively contributes to the field, proudly holding memberships in the Ontario Association of Behavior Analysis, Inc (ONTABA) and the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). Her dedication to supporting families through Applied Behavior Analysis is evident in her extensive involvement.
Eager to Elevate Her Craft:
Ida's relentless quest for knowledge drives her to attend international and local workshops and training sessions held by renowned organizations, ensuring she remains on the cutting edge of her field. Her extensive training includes certifications in Pivotal Response Training (PRT), Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), Promoting the Emergence of Advanced Knowledge (PEAK), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT), and Relational Frame Theory (RFT).
A Passion for Empowerment:
Beyond clinical practice, Ida's fervent desire is to elevate the field of ABA. She is dedicated to developing and implementing professional training workshops, providing guidance to parents, and fostering inter-professional collaboration. As a part-time professor in the Bachelor of Behavioral Science program at Humber College, she is actively shaping the future of the field.
Ida's Guiding Philosophy:
Ida's academic and professional experiences have shaped her belief in the profound impact that high-quality services can have on individuals with ASD and other disabilities. Her guiding philosophy is straightforward yet profound: she believes in providing comprehensive interventions that are not just evidence-based but deeply individualized for each unique individual she has the privilege to serve.
At Glowing Growth Autism Services, Ida's passion and dedication drive our mission to illuminate the path to growth and development for children with ASD. Your child's journey is personal to Ida, and she's here to guide you every step of the way.
Vivian Tam, M.S., BCBA
Program Director/Clinical Supervisor
Highlight of Qualification:
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Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®)
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Master's degree in Science, with specialization in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) at St. Cloud State University
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Member of the Ontario Association of Behavior Analysis, Inc (ONTABA)
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Member of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)
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Met Requirements of Clinical Supervisor for Ontario Autism Program/Childhood Budget
Vivian is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) and the Program Supervisor at Glowing Growth Autism Services Inc. Vivian completed her Master's degree in Science, with specialization in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) at St. Cloud State University. She also holds a B.S in Psychology specializing in Behaviour Disorders at the University of Toronto.
Vivian is a member of the Ontario Association of Behavior Analysis, Inc (ONTABA), the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). She is well-versed in providing high-quality, individualized treatment and has been involved in the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis for the past 10 years. She has worked as an ABA school teacher and behaviour therapist delivering Intensive Behaviour Therapy (IBI), with individuals on the Autism Spectrum and other developmental disorders ranging from 1.5 years old to 25 years of all abilities. Her expertise includes IBI program planning, oversee home-based programs, and, behaviour plans. Her wide-ranging skills further continue with developmental assessments (eg. ABLLS-R, AFLS-R PEAK, VB-MAPP), Direct Instruction, Precision teaching curriculums and designing training protocols for staffs and parents.
Vivian's passion for ABA comes not only from her strong clinical background but also the pleasure of witnessing how interventions can make a difference in one's life. With her dedication and love for the children, she works diligently with other interdisciplinary professionals to provide the most comprehensive and client- centred treatments. It is her hope to combine her passion for teaching ABA and prepare families with effective tools for lasting behaviour change.
Jennifer Castillo, M.ADS., BCBA
Program Supervisor
Highlight of Qualification:
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Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®)
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Master’s degree in Applied Disabilities Studies (M.ADS) with specialization of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)
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Jennifer holds a Master's degree in Applied Disabilities Studies (M.ADS) with specaizliation of Applied Behaviours Analysis (ABA). She completed her Undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto in 2017 where she obtained an Hon. B.Sc in Mental Health Studies and Linguistic. Jennifer is also a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA).
During her time at the University she was exposed to different techniques, and the basis of applied behaviour therapy and behaviour modification. It was due to her education in Linguistics in which she dealt with topics related to speech and language disorders that sparked her interest and passion to work with children with Autism.
Jennifer’s work with children began at the age of 16 where she began volunteering with numerous organizations and summer camps as a mentor and counsellor. Her work continues through her active role as an ESL teacher. Jennifer has the capabilities of guiding and teaching our clients new activities and skills as well as helping them further develop certain abilities. Jennifer is committed to providing specialized ABA therapy for each of our clients as well as communicating with their families. She is driven by the desire to understand Autism in order to maximize her role as a BCBA supervisor.
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Marina Fahmy, Hons B.Sc., RBT., Master's Degree In Progress
Assistant Program Supervisor
Marina has completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto, where she obtained her Honours Bachelor Degree in Science with a double major in Psychology and Neuroscience. During her time at the University, she focused her courses on Behaviour Modification which included Applied Behaviour Analysis and much more. Currently, she is also continuously pursuing her education by working on her Master’s Degree Program for Counselling Psychology and is completing the 40-hours Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT) training course which is approved by the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board (BCBA). Marina is also a certified Canadian Red Cross FirstAid CPR/AED Standard C First Aider.
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Marina has more than 5 years experience working with children of various ages, whether during her volunteer experience through church services or at various summer camps as a counsellor. Her interests in working with children with disabilities was intrigued when she started working as a preschool teacher in a daycare, where she dealt with a couple of kids who were diagnosed with the autism. This experience sparked her interest to pursue a career dedicated to working and helping children with developmental disabilities.
Marina has experience in providing services for children with different developmental disabilities in a variety of settings. Her tactics are by applying a holistic, strength based approach in her work, while she includes creative techniques such as arts and musical activities to keep children engaged and promote social skills.
Marina is dedicated, devoted and passionate to ensure that each child gets the help and support they need through adaptive intervention techniques.
Monica Santos, Hons. B.Sc., RBT
Assistant Program Supervisor
Monica completed her undergraduate degree with a Double Major in Psychology and Human Biology at the University of Toronto. She has volunteered as a Literacy Mentor with Frontier College for three years to provide assistance to elementary school children in the Scarborough community. Monica has also obtained her graduate certificate in Autism and Behavioural Science from George Brown College. She has worked as an Instructor Therapist for almost two years and she is passionate about promoting children's independence with their daily lives.
Monica enjoys interacting and working with children. She is very committed to learning more about the ever-evolving field of Applied Behaviour Analysis. She is also interested in working with individuals of different disabilities and backgrounds. Monica plans to further her career in ABA or continue her education in Occupational Therapy.
Ariana Rotondi, Hons B.A., RBT., Master's Degree In Progress
Lead Instructor Therapist
Ariana has completed her undergraduate degree with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Studies from Ryerson University. She has been working with children and adults with a variety of disabilities in many settings over that past seven years. Ariana is also a Registered Behavior Technician (approved by the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board - BACB) and is supervised under a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst. Ariana has completed her Canadian Red Cross FirstAid CPR/AED Standard C Certification.
Ariana began working in the field at the age of 14 beginning to work with adult with special needs assisting them with basic life skills and creating independence for their future. She continued this work in working for the City of Markham, inclusion team for summer camps working with children who have special needs. Ariana then worked as the Inclusion Supervisor for the city of Markham camps where she trained staff to lead a safe and inclusive environment for children who have a variety of exceptionalities. Ariana is a big advocate on inclusive practices and aims to create inclusive settings for all children to feel welcome and comfortable while providing meaningful content and opportunities for children to explore and learn.
Nicole Bondoc, Hons B.A., RBT, M.Ed in progress
Lead Instructor Therapist
Nicole is a graduate from Ryerson University, where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Studies with a minor in Psychology. She has worked in several educational settings with children of various abilities as well as their families over the last five years. Nicole has successfully obtained her Canadian Red Cross FirstAid CPR/AED Standard C Certification. Nicole is also a Registered Behavior Technician (approved by the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board - BACB) and is supervised under a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst.
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She has worked with the City of Markham for three years as an Inclusion Summer Camp Counsellor where she had the opportunity to work one-to-one with children and learn about a wide range of disabilities. Her interest in ABA was further sparked as she completed a field placement at Holland-Bloorview, where she planned and implemented activities for young children with disabilities in a specialized setting.
Nicole has a passion for working with children and helping them further develop skills in self-efficacy and increase autonomy to support their development. She is deeply motivated to continue learning in the field of ABA and is committed to providing quality service for our clients in order to meet their individual needs. She has an active interest in music, mental health, inclusion and American Sign Language which are all incorporated into her practice.
Tammy Chan, B.A.
Lead Instructor Therapist & Administrative Manager
Tammy is a Lead Instructor Therapist and has a background in Social Service Worker (Seneca) and a Bachelors Degree in Economics and East Asian Studies from the University of Toronto (St. George Campus). Tammy has completed her course sequence for BCaBA at Humber College and is working towards achieving a BCaBA certification. She has also completed an Applied Behaviour Analysis Certificate at the Geneva Center.
Tammy began her journey with children with autism while completing her placement at Aurora High School (York Region District School Board). Tammy’s interest and passion grew after continuing her career through Aspiration and Discoveries Inc. solely working with elementary and high school children with autism. Tammy also spent two years overseas in Hong Kong where she had the opportunity to assist children in the elementary setting with Special Needs at International Christian School.
As early intervention is critical, Tammy hopes to continuously educate and enhance her skills in ABA to support each family and child’s individual needs.
Elena Okbay, Hons B.A., RBT
Lead Instructor Therapist
Elena is a graduate from York University where she completed her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology. She went on and obtained a Post Graduate Certificate in Autism and Behavioural Sciences from George Brown College (that met the requirement of BCaBA course sequence approved by the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board - BACB), which focused on autism spectrum disorder and ABA (Applied Behavioural Analysis) with a primary application for children and adolescents. Elena is s a Registered Behaviour Technician (approved by the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board - BACB) and is supervised under a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst.
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Elena has a passion for working with children and supporting them to be as functional and independent as possible recognizing and serving their individual needs. She has worked as an instructor therapist with children and youth of different disabilities in various settings for more than three years. She takes pleasure in watching her clients grow, reduce challenging behaviours and learn new meaningful skills. She has years of experience in implementing programs including direct instruction, classroom readiness, social skills, life skills, and PECS. She plans to pursue her BCaBA certification in the future.
Grace Lam, B.A., RBT
Lead Instructor Therapist
Grace Lam is a Registered Behavioural Technician supervised under a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Tyndale University with a Bachelor of Arts in Human Services and a Diploma in Early Childhood Education from Seneca College.
Grace has worked extensively with children in different environments and she is passionate about collaborating with children and families fueled by her firm belief that every individual has the potential to thrive. She is wholeheartedly committed to supporting the journey and success of the younger generation.
Iris Wong, RBT
Instructor Therapist/Administrative Assistant
Iris was a registered Early Childhood Educator. Iris has over four years of experience working as a lead RECE in early learning centers. She worked with children with disabilities in an inclusive setting by planning and implementing programs to support their development. Iris is also a Registered Behavior Technician (approved by the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board - BACB) and is supervised under a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst. Iris has obtained her Canadian Red Cross FirstAid CPR/AED Standard C Certification.
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Iris started volunteering at a hospital and nursing home at the age of 16, engaging children with special needs and elderlies in social and recreational activities. She also worked as a Youth Ambassador in The Salvation Army assisting social workers with event planning. Iris found a passion for using ABA which helps children to reach their potential and work toward their goals for behavior, cognition, and social success. She is planning on continuing her education in the fields of ABA and Autism studies.
Adrienne Mak, Hons B.A., RBT
Instructor Therapist
Adrienne is a graduate of the University of Toronto with an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics.
She has a passion for caring for children and recognizes the impact that childhood has on a person's future. She has created close relationships with children and young families at her church and hopes to continue building relationships and mentoring these children as they enter new chapters of life. During high school and university, she spent time volunteering at various children's summer camps and student events. She is driven by her passion to care for others and to create a welcoming and caring environment wherever she is.
Adrienne is working towards her Registered Behaviour Technician certification and hopes to further her education in Speech Language Pathology.
Kelly Lam, B.A., RBT
Instructor Therapist
Kelly completed her undergraduate degree in Liberal Studies Education. She has 4 years of experience working with children. Kelly is also a Registered Behavior Technician (approved by the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board - BACB) and is supervised under a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst. She has obtained her FirstAid CPR/AED Standard C Certification.
Kelly is interested in special education, she has volunteered with children with special needs and interned in schools in the past. She is passionate about working with children and believes that every child is unique.
Mithussha Inpakeetham, Hons B.A.
Instructor Therapist
Mithussha is a graduate of York University with a Honours degree of Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. She always had the passion to work with children. During high school and university, she had the opportunity to build relationships with children, by spending her time at her church as a Sunday school teacher. She got to plan lessons and work on activities with them. She also volunteered as a mentor in after school programs to help children and youth in underfunded communities. It was a fulfilling opportunity to create new relationships that she developed working one on one. For the past two years she’s been working in the ABA field as an instructor therapist and is working towards her Registered Behaviour Technician certification. Mithussha strongly believes this position is rewarding and seeing each child progress gives her the aspiration to continue what she’s doing to the best of her ability!
Melissa Wu, Hons B.A.
Instructor Therapist
Melissa completed her undergrad in Early Childhood Education and Child Youth Care. She has a lot of experience working and studying the developmental process of children in all stages. Particularly, she has worked with infants, preschool children, kindergarten children, and school aged children. She developed a passion for working closely with different communities and families such as children with special needs, and also the Indigenous community. She has experience working with a specialization in family trauma, and aims to provide safe learning spaces for all. Melissa is working towards her Registered Behaviour Technician certification.
Arogena Kavithakaran, Hons. B.Sc
Instructor Therapist
Arogena is a graduate of the University of Toronto with a Honours Bachelor of Science; majoring in psychology. She is also a dean’s list graduate from George Brown College where she completed her post-graduate certificate in Autism Behavioural Sciences. In the South Asian community, mental health and developmental disabilities are seen as taboo, so acknowledging these issues and receiving support is often discouraged.
Arogena hopes to tackle the lack of awareness surrounding autism, mental health, and other disabilities, due to the cultural barriers and beliefs present in these communities. She has worked with other Autism/special needs centres, and tutored children with learning disabilities throughout high school and university. Arogena is passionate about promoting an inclusive community where everyone is accepted for who they are. A community where a disability is not the first thing one sees in a person, but their skills, talents, and achievements; big or small. Arogena is currently working towards becoming a Board Certified Assistant Behaviour Analyst(BCaBa), and plans to further her career in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA).
Angelica Yu, B. Sc
Instructor Therapist
Committed to making a positive impact by bringing a compassionate and patient approach to her work. Angelica holds a Bachelor's degree in Science in Nutrition and Dietetics. As a board-certified Dietitian from Manila, Philippines, she deeply understands the vital role nutrition plays in overall well-being.
She obtained a diploma in Behavioral Sciences from Seneca College in Canada, further enhancing her skills and knowledge in understanding human behavior. This qualification equips her with the ability to develop tailored interventions and strategies that promote growth and development for individuals.
Growing up, she always had a strong desire to contribute her skills to making the community a better place. As an Instructor Therapist, she channels this passion into creating a positive impact in the lives of children and their families. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment approaching each day with a sense of adventure and creating a fun and engaging environment that allows children to thrive and reach their full potential
Gubetha Gunarajah, Hons. B.Sc
Instructor Therapist
Gubetha (Gigi) is a passionate individual who loves to help in the community and serve others. Gubetha holds an Undergraduate Degree of Bachelors of Science from the University of Toronto, majoring in Mental Health Studies and minoring in both French and International Development Studies. She has also received a Global Scholar Certificate from the University. She then completed her post graduate program at George Brown College in Behavioural Technician. She has completed her Canadian Red Cross First Aid CPR/AED Standard C Certification as well.
From the age of 16 she had started working at numerous organizations, camps and schools working with both children and adults with varied abilities helping them acquire basic life skills, academic skills, and fostering confidence and independence for their futures. She believes in practicing the importance of both good mental health and physical wellbeing through different art forms and sports. She also is keen on providing safe learning spaces for all.
Gubetha is currently working towards her Registered Behaviour Technician certification and is planning to do further education in Teaching.
Leo Kuchuk, Hons. B.Sc
Instructor Therapist
Leo graduated with an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology at Wilfrid Laurier University and is working towards his Registered Behaviour Technician certification. Leo is an Instructor Therapist specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. He has a strong background working with children and understands that every child with ASD is unique and has their own challenges and strengths. Leo is committed to helping children with autism face their challenges and unlock their full potential with ABA therapy!
Alexandra Scaffidi, B.A.
Instuctor Therapist
Alex is a graduate of Seneca College’s Social Service Work program where she specialized in Mental Health & Addictions. She is currently finishing her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Community Health at Wilfrid Laurier University, then she will be continuing on to the Autism and Behavioural Science program at Conestoga College. She is also currently working toward her Registered Behaviour Technician certification.
She has over 13 years of experience working with children, youth and adults on the Autism spectrum in multiple settings. She began as a gymnastics coach for six years. She then completed a 750-hour placement with the York Region District School Board. She has case management experience with teens and young adults with dual diagnosis (developmental Disabilities, emotional, psychiatric and behavioural difficulties) in a group home setting, as well as experience in day programs that focus on life skills for children, youth, and adults on the Autism spectrum.
She has completed dozens of trainings, including certifications through Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies for Trauma Informed Care, and Parent Resources for Information, Development and Education Training. She has also completed training through Cornell University’s CARE Project for Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI), and Children and Residential Experiences (CARE) Training. Alex is certified in First Aid CPR C + AED, as well as Canadian Red Cross’s Psychological First Aid, and Non-Violent Crisis Prevention and Intervention (NVCPI) training.
Won Kim, , Hons. B.Sc
Instructor Therapist
Won graduated from York University with an Honours degree in Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Won is completing his Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) at Yorkville University and he is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).
Won has previously worked in non-profit organizations, private clinics, and research centres to provide physical and mental health services to a wide range of age groups. Won is dedicated to creating a non-judgmental, caring, and safe environment to help individual children develop their independence and skills that will suit their needs. Won is also committed to providing a holistic approach to care by working closely with families, communities, and other services to best support each child. Won is working towards becoming a Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT).
Stephanie Brogno, Hons B.A.
Instructor Therapist
Stephanie is currently a student in the Concurrent Education Program at York University, she has completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Intermediate Certificate in French and is finishing her final year of her Bachelor of Education to become an Ontario Certified Teacher (OCT).
Stephanie has previously worked as a teacher, an educational assistant to children with autism, and a researcher to investigate and support healthy child development with a wide range of age groups. Stephanie is motivated to understand and enhance the conditions in which all children thrive academically, behaviourally and socio-emotionally by providing research-based therapy and contributing to clinically-driven research. She is currently working towards becoming a Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT) and plans to do further education in the fields of Applied Behaviour Analysis and Educational Psychology.