Nicole Krofchick Ms.Cl.Sc – SLP, Reg. CASLPO

SPEECH & LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

Nicole obtained a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Health Science from Wilfrid Laurier University. Her hard work and passion to work in the healthcare sector drove her to obtain a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Western Ontario.

Much of her clinical experience in the field lies within the areas of articulation and phonology, expressive and receptive language, early literacy and Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC). Prior to beginning the process to become an S-LP, Nicole developed a special interest in working Autistic children, teens and adults. 

She is an extremely passionate and dedicated clinician who strives to meet the needs of the client and their family. Her approach to therapy includes the implementation of evidence-based practice into play-based activities to optimize client motivation and success. She very much believes in a family-centred approach and basing her therapy on Neurodiversity affirmming practices. One of Nicole’s major priorities is to ensure that her services are accessible, comprehensive and reliable while still being fun and engaging.

Stephanie Rhys MSW

SOCIAL WORK

Stephanie Rhys is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and certified Play Therapist, specializing in attachment, Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), and complex special needs, all viewed through a trauma-focused lens. She completed her Master’s in Clinical Social Work from the University of Toronto in 2014, within the “Children and Families” stream. In 2014, Stephanie achieved certification in Play Therapy from the Canadian Association for Play Therapy, further enriching her therapeutic toolbox with creative and effective methods to connect with children and youth.

With a profound passion for mental health, Stephanie employs evidence-based practices, including trauma-focused interventions, to provide comprehensive support to children, youth, and families. Her approach creates a secure space for therapeutic exploration, utilizing play-based interventions to nurture growth and healing. Stephanie places a strong emphasis on collaborating with caregivers to harness their strengths and collectively achieve therapeutic goals. As an advocate within healthcare and education systems, she ensures that families receive integrated care tailored to their unique needs.

Billie Schulman RSW

SOCIAL WORK

Billie Schulman is a graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University, where she earned her Bachelor of Social Work degree. Currently, she is working on the next phase of her educational journey as she completes a Master of Social Work at Yeshiva University, all while maintaining her registration as a social worker with the OCSWSSW.

Billie’s commitment to nurturing children’s growth and development is complimented by her specialized expertise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Level 2 certification. This training equips her with a strong understanding of psychological principles and evidence-based techniques. Armed with this knowledge, Billie works to foster a supportive and empathetic environment where children can comfortably explore their emotions, thoughts, and behaviours.

CBT – Level 2 certification empowers Billie to effectively address and wide range of challenges that children may encounter, from anxiety and depression to self-regulation and trauma. By utilizing proven CBT strategies, she aims to help her young clients develop essential coping skills, challenge negative thought patterns, and build resilience, with her passionate guidance and evidence-based interventions.

Jordyn Friedman MScOT, OT Reg. (Ont.).

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

Jordyn is an Occupational Therapist with experience working in diverse settings such as schools, camps, in the community, and mental health programs.

Jordyn recently graduated from Queen’s University with a BSc(H) in Psychology followed by a MScOT. She comes to socialskilled with a passion for helping children and families reach their goals and succeed in every aspect of their lives.

Jordyn is an expert in running groups and planning programming that is engaging, fun, and educational. She is deeply passionate about mental health and committed to fostering the happiness and well-being of your child, while striving to make a positive difference in their lives.

Kerri Goulden OCT

HEAD OF EDUCATION & DIRECT INSTRUCTION

Kerri is a mom to two awesome kids and two dogs. She grew up in Aurora, went to the University of Guelph where she got a BA, and continued her studies at Ottawa University where she got her Bachelor of Education.

Kerri began teaching in the early 2000s and her first position was at a school for kids with many different learning abilities. The school used Direct Instruction programs for their academic subjects so she had the opportunity hands-on training and professional development. It was amazing to see her students progress so quickly using these programs.

Fast forward to the present day. She has two amazing children with their own learning differences. During lockdowns, she was able to see where they needed support and was able to implement many of the Direct Instruction principles to support them with their online learning. Supporting her kids and seeing their success gave her the confidence to open up my services to support other students with reading and spelling. She loves seeing her students gain confidence, tackle challenging concepts with perseverance, and to learn how to turn mistakes into learning experiences.

Kerri is also an experienced Family Mentor and has supported parents through Children’s Treatment Network’s Family Mentor program. She looks forward to helping support children and families at socialskilled.

Emily Skalkos MEd & Alicia Cunningham CYW

RECREATION LEADS

Emily and Alicia were the first to join the socialskilled team. They began working together to deliver programs along with Ashley and Michelle in the Fall of 2022, facilitating programs like Fun with Friends, Social Club, Skilled for Play, Art with Friends, and Science with Friends. They believe that the magic of these programs influenced their own close friendship, and are so thankful to have met each other.

When not at socialskilled, Alicia works as a CYW for the TCDSB. Emily works as a Developmental Support Worker for the YRDSB. She has also obtained a B.A. in Psychology from York University and a MEd in Developmental Psychology and Education from University of Toronto.

Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to support children, youth, and their families.