Creative Therapy

Agency Description

Creative Therapy Associates (CTA) is a locally owned rehabilitation practice in Thunder Bay, Ontario, that has been in operation in the Northwestern Ontario region for over 30 years. CTA is a multidisciplinary centre and provides diagnostic assessments and evidence-based intervention for children and youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We employ a team of qualified OTs, SLPs, RBA’s and supervised behavioral therapists.

Our centre offers a wide range of high-quality therapy services to children, youth, young adults and families impacted by ASD. We are committed to a coordinated and integrated approach to service delivery and to offering options that are tailored to the unique needs of the whole child, youth or young adult.

The CTA team has been built with these goals in mind, and they offer a wide variety of services, from parent mediated, programs to direct service options including ABA, JASPER, Hanen More Than Words, PECS, LAMP, The Play Project, DIR Floor time, and Autism Navigator.

 

Therapist Descriptions

 

Sarah Duell M.ADS., BCBA, R.B.A (Ont.)

Sarah Duell is a dedicated professional specializing in Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA). She holds a master’s degree in Disability Studies with a focus on ABA from Brock University and has achieved her Board-Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) certification. Sarah is also a Registered Behaviour Analyst (R.B.A. Ont.), regulated by the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO). With her extensive academic background and professional credentials, Sarah is passionate about using evidence-based strategies to guide her practice in ABA. She is committed to improving the quality of life for individuals with diverse needs and fostering their independence. Sarah is currently contributing her expertise to Creative Therapy Associates, where she collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to provide tailored interventions and support to children and families. Her dedication to the field and commitment to ongoing learning make her a vital asset to the organization and the communities she serves. 

Chelsea Creglia Laidler, Med, R.B.A (Ont), BCBA

Chelsea Creglia is a compassionate and skilled professional with a unique background as a Certified Elementary School Teacher. Building on her experience in education, Chelsea expanded her expertise to include Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) and achieved her Board-Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) certification. She is also a Registered Behaviour Analyst (R.B.A. Ont.), regulated by the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO).
Chelsea’s foundation in education gives her a deep understanding of child development and learning, which she seamlessly integrates into her practice in ABA. She is dedicated to supporting children and families by developing individualized, evidence-based strategies that promote skill development, independence, and meaningful outcomes.
Currently, Chelsea is a vital member of the team at Creative Therapy Associates, where she collaborates with interdisciplinary professionals to provide exceptional care. Her dual expertise in teaching and behaviour analysis enhances her ability to create comprehensive and impactful interventions tailored to each client’s unique needs.

 

Stephanie Cistrone, M.ADS., BCBA, R.B.A (Ont.)

Stephanie Cistrone has over 9 years of experience working in the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) working with and supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Stephanie obtained her Honours Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Waterloo in 2012 and her postgraduate certification in Autism and Behaviour Science from George Brown College in 2014. In April 2017, Stephanie obtained her Masters of Applied Disability Studies with a specialization in Applied Behaviour Analysis from Brock University. In August 2017, Stephanie earned her Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) certification.

Stephanie has experience delivering care to individuals with disabilities across a variety of programs including one-to-one behavior intervention, academic remediation, remote/online learning, social skills, as well as adult programs that focus on vocational and life skills. Stephanie currently works as a remote BCBA Supervisor supporting individuals with ASD and their families in Northern Ontario.

Karli Atkinson, M.S, BCBA, R.B.A (Ont.)

Karli Atkinson is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and a Registered Behaviour Analyst (R.B.A.) in Ontario, dedicated to supporting individuals through evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) strategies. She holds a Master of Science (M.S.) degree and has extensive experience working with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, and families.

Karli specializes in skill-building, behavior reduction, and incorporating ABA principles into daily living. She is passionate about collaborative, assent-based approaches, ensuring that interventions are meaningful, individualized, and practical for both caregivers and clients. With a focus on problem-solving and caregiver coaching, she helps families apply ABA techniques to real-life challenges, from promoting independence to addressing behavioral concerns.

Committed to ethical and compassionate care, Karli strives to empower caregivers with the tools they need to foster positive change. Whether providing direct consultation, guiding behavior strategies, or training teams, she brings expertise, empathy, and a solutions-focused mindset to every interaction.

Taylor Gombola, M.ADS., BCBA, R.B.A (Ont.)

Taylor Gombola is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and a Registered Behaviour Analyst (R.B.A.) in Ontario. She holds a Master of Applied Disability Studies (M.ADS.) with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and has extensive experience supporting individuals with diverse needs across various settings.

Taylor is passionate about using evidence-based ABA strategies to promote meaningful skill development, behavior regulation, and increased independence. She specializes in working collaboratively with caregivers, educators, and interdisciplinary teams to create individualized and practical interventions that align with each person’s goals.

With a strong focus on caregiver coaching and problem-solving, Taylor helps families incorporate ABA principles into daily routines, addressing challenges related to skill-building, behavior reduction, and functional communication. She values a compassionate, assent-based approach, ensuring that interventions respect the individual’s needs and preferences.
Dedicated to fostering positive change, Taylor is committed to providing ethical, effective, and person-centered behavior support. Through consultation, training, and direct intervention, she aims to empower individuals and their caregivers with the tools and strategies needed for long-term success.