Our Programs
Sunshine Learning Centre (SLC) offers a variety of programs that can help you or someone you love develop meaningful skills to participate in day to day activities.
ABA THERAPY
At SLC we utilize Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) which is a scientific approach to understanding and improving behaviour using data and research-based methods. ABA can target each child's socially significant goals such as verbal skills, academics, self-help, play skills, social skills, life skills, and more. Principles of ABA consist of reinforcement which includes a specific item or activity that can increase a desired behaviour. At SLC we strive to ensure ABA principles are used ethically and safely to ensure the happiness and success of each child. (Covered with OAP funding).
GROUP PROGRAMS
Our group programs offer children ages 8-17 an opportunity to learn skills related to emotional regulation, understanding the emotions of others, using coping strategies, social interaction, and building relationships. We offer two emotional regulation group programs using the evidence-based curriculum Emotional ABCs® and SLC's original program MoodMasters: Emotional Regulation for Teens. Additionally, we offer a social group program using the popular evidence-based PEERS® program. All group programs occur once per week in 10-14 week blocks under the supervision of a Registered Behaviour Analyst. (Covered with OAP funding).
SPEECH SERVICES
Our registered Speech and Language Pathologist (SLP), April Adebayo, provides standardized assessments and individualized treatment in combination with ABA practices to target each child's communication goals. At SLC, our speech services are all about making communication fun and effective. Using evidence-based methods and standardized assessments, we create engaging activities that help children improve their speech and language skills. By combining SLP practices with ABA methods, our goal is to build confidence and communication abilities in a supportive and dynamic environment. Every child's progress is closely monitored to ensure they receive the most effective and enjoyable therapy tailored just for them. (Covered with OAP funding).
LIFE SKILLS
At SLC, we are dedicated to empowering individuals to thrive independently in the community. We focus on helping teens and young adults develop skills of taking the bus, shopping, cooking, creating resumes, applying for jobs and school programs, safety and first aid, improving organization and scheduling, and more. Using relevant tools such as the Assessment of Functional Living Skills (AFLS) and Behavioural Skills Training (BST), this program is geared specifically towards teenagers and young adults with the goal of developing important self-help, independence, and life skills. Conducted in a 1-to-1 format and facilitated by our trained staff, this program is offered in blocks depending on the number of goals. (Covered with OAP funding).
BEHAVIOUR CONSULTATION
Whether you are a parent facing challenges at home or a professional individual or organization seeking assistance, SLC offers personalized behaviour consultation. We equip you with the tools and strategies needed to effectively support those who matter most to you. Our consultation services help families address challenging behaviors and develop independence in the home environment. SLC also supports individual professionals and organizations in developing behaviour treatment goals. Consultations can be provided in person or online. Additionally, SLC offers online training programs consisting of short video modules that can be completed at your own pace. These modules cover topics such as managing problem behaviours at home, toilet training, feeding, self-care for parents, and more. (Covered with OAP funding).
BEHAVIOUR ANALYST SUPERVISION
Our Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, Jesenia (Jese) Duran, is qualified to provide RBT and BCBA supervision (until July 2026 in Ontario and to all those residing outside of Ontario). Additionally, as a Registered Behavior Analyst with the Ontario College, Jese can support those working in the field of ABA in their journey to becoming RBAs themselves. Supervision is conducted remotely using behavioral skills training (BST) and additional ABA strategies. Jese Duran has completed her 8-hour supervision training, enabling her to provide ethical, meaningful, and effective supervision. She has experience creating mock exam questions with reputable study programs such as SNABA. Jese offers an enjoyable, interactive, and organized supervision structure, including reviewing task list items, the code of ethics, CPBAO standards, role play scenarios, and mock exam questions.
PSYCHOTHERAPY SERVICES
We are pleased to offer psychotherapy services from a qualifying psychotherapist, under the supervision of a registered psychotherapist. Our psychotherapy services cater to pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults with autism, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, and more. We provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their thoughts and emotions. Our experienced therapist, Charlotte Dirken, is skilled in using techniques of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) to help clients manage symptoms, develop coping strategies, and improve their overall well-being. This program also includes parent involvement, guiding parents on how to integrate psychotherapy practices into the home environment. Whether you are struggling with daily stressors, navigating life transitions, or seeking personal growth, our therapy services are tailored to meet your unique needs. (Covered with OAP funding).
PEERS® SOCIAL SKILLS
PEERS® is an evidence-based program that can be provided in a group format or 1-to-1, for 14-16 weeks to develop social skills such as having a back-and-forth conversation, hangouts, phone calls, texting, appropriate humour, handling bullying, gossip, and bad reputations, and more. Neurodivergent individuals often experience challenges with social skills, however, the format of the PEERS® program breaks down skills into digestible rules with video demonstrations and opportunities to rehearse various social interactions. PEERS® includes teaching social skills using evidence-based ABA methods such as behavioural skills training (BST) and reinforcement. The PEERS® group program includes a parent component which allows parents to gather together to discuss each child's progress throughout the program. (Covered with OAP funding).