Services for Caregivers/Parents

Hi, I’m an occupational therapy consultant, and I work with families who are in it...the messy, exhausting, heartbreaking, beautiful chaos of raising a child with severe behavioral needs.

If you’re here, maybe you’re tired. Maybe you feel burnt out, unseen, or like no one truly understands what daily life is like in your home. Maybe you feel torn between loving your child deeply and quietly resenting how hard things have become, and then carrying the guilt that follows.

You’re not alone. And you’re not failing.

My role isn’t to “fix” you or your child, or hand you a checklist of everything you’re doing wrong. No one here is broken, and you are already doing your best with the tools and energy you have right now. My job is to truly see you, believe in you and your child, and walk alongside your family to find real, compassionate ways forward.

I bring an evidence-based, practical approach to supporting regulation, connection, independence, and emotional well-being, for your child and for you. My work is grounded in current global research, but always adapted to the unpredictable realities of family life. I presume competence in both your child and in you, and I work to help others see and respect that, too.

I notice what often gets overlooked: the quiet wins, the tiny shifts, the courage it takes to keep showing up. I’ll help you notice them too, because they matter. And I know that some days, just making it through is the win.

When you invite me into your home, virtually or in person, I consider it an honor. My goal is to make you feel safe, supported, and understood. If I’m not the right fit for something you need, I’ll help connect you with someone who is. We’re a team, and I’ll show up consistently to work toward feeling more grounded, connected, and resourced together.

There’s no magic wand. But there is hope, partnership, and possibility, even when things feel impossibly hard. You don’t have to do this alone, and you don’t have to pretend it’s not hard. Let’s start where you are. I’m so glad you’re here.

A Little More About Me

I recently moved from Alberta to Vancouver Island and live in a van...by choice! This lets me travel to rural and remote communities to bring services where they’re harder to find, while also working with families internationally.

Outside of work, I’m all about movement, challenge, and adventure. You might find me mountain biking, hiking, snowboarding, boxing, doing CrossFit, or even skydiving (yes, despite being afraid of heights!). I grew up playing competitive soccer and still bring that team mindset into my work today.

This past year, I navigated my own health challenges, all while living in Colombia. That experience taught me to slow down, listen to my body, and value the small, powerful steps in any healing process. It also gave me a new level of empathy for my English-as-a-second-language families and for children who are non-speaking. I know what it’s like to have thoughts, knowledge, and needs inside you but not have the words to express them, and how painful it is when people assume you don’t understand.

At the heart of everything I do, whether I’m on a mountain trail, in a family’s living room, or somewhere in between, is my belief that everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported. I’m honored to walk alongside families as they work toward hope, connection, and possibility.

Services for Caregivers/Parents

Every family is unique, your support should be too. My services are completely individualized and tailored to meet the needs of you, your child, and your family. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all program; it’s about creating practical, compassionate solutions that work for you right now.

Ways I Can Support You

Parent & Caregivers/Parents Groups — Connect with other parents and caregivers, whether it’s friends you already know or families navigating similar challenges. Flexible format: formal or informal, one-time or ongoing sessions. We can arrange childcare at the meeting location or nearby so you can fully engage. Topics can be tailored to your group’s interests and needs.

Individual Consultations — Dedicated time to discuss specific challenges you and your child are facing. Collaborative problem-solving with practical strategies to strengthen your relationship and reduce stress. Can include video feedback, direct observation, hands-on guidance, or working alongside your child’s support network (school staff, therapists, etc.). Available in-person or virtually.

Parent Coaching & Education — Focused on your growth and confidence as a caregiver. Learn how to support your child’s unique needs while staying regulated yourself. Strengths-based approach, we build on what’s already working to deepen your connection with your child. Offered in-person or virtually.

Payment Options

Alberta: We can discuss whether FSCD funding may be available.
British Columbia: I’m on the RASP list.
Private Insurance: Many plans cover occupational therapy for both children and adults, this includes support for caregivers, not just children.
Private Pay: Out-of-pocket payment is always an option, and some expenses may be eligible as a tax deduction.

💬 The bottom line: You don’t need to have it all figured out before you start. If something is holding you back, let’s talk about it. Together, we can find a way to make support accessible, practical, and meaningful for you and your family.

Testimonials

Clare works with my boy close to 3 years as his occupational therapist. Since knowing her she has. Provided us with the right information and advice to transform my boy’s life for better. I can’t thank her enough for helping my son and our family in this Autism journey. She is not only my son’s Occupational Therapist but a family to us who cares deeply, her approach, skills and insight are unbelievably amazing, and she never hesitates step in and help whenever we need it.

I dread to think where we would be if we hadn’t found her. If every therapist cares the way she does, to be honest the world would be a better place for our special kiddos.

THANK YOU again for such professional service with a welcoming and caring approach. We love you dearly!!

~ Tsega M - Parent

I’ve dealt with many kind of therapists over the years to assist me with my two autistic children; Clare has by far been the most passionate and caring that I have ever met. She’s devoted to her work with the parents and children. She taught me so many new things that I didn’t know about my children. She was patient and diligent while working with me while we tried different medications until we found the right match for my son. She truly knows what I’m going to say before I even say it. She connects with me on many levels and has the best interest of my children as well as myself at heart. Since working with Clare my life has become so much more manageable with my children. The advice she provided made a world of difference.

I cannot thank her enough for all her time and effort. She’s a true angel on earth!

~ Batoul Abadi - Parent

Clare has been absolutely wonderful with my son, Bentley, who is autistic and nonverbal. She has a natural understanding of his needs and communicates with him in a way that makes him feel comfortable and supported. Clare takes the time to learn his cues, his preferences, and the things that help him feel safe. Her patience, empathy, and genuine care have made a huge difference in Bentley’s life. It’s clear she truly “gets” him, and that connection is something you can’t teach - it comes from the heart. I am so grateful to have Clare in Bentley’s life.

~ Jason Higgins - Parent

“I’ve known Clare for a third of my life, and throughout that whole time, she’s been among my greatest boons. I dread to think where I’d be without her.”

~ Richard B.

My 9 year old son is autistic and was having a challenging school year. He was misinterpreting many social cues as threats and had become increasingly aggressive and oppositional with peers, school staff, and family members. Clare suggested the integrated music therapy program to help him appropriately respond to, rather than react to his environment. After just a few sessions there was a noticeable shift in his behaviour. He was calmer and more receptive to redirection and self-regulation strategies. His ability to articulate his thoughts and feelings also improved and he was more engaged during class time and in social interactions. He is now a confident child at school, eager to participate in class and happily cultivating new friendships.

~ Karyn - Parent

Before starting therapy, our child really struggled with frustration and big emotions. Thanks to Clare's patience and creativity, they now have strategies to calm themselves and express their feelings in healthier ways. We saw such a positive change in our child - not only in their emotional regulation, but also in the confidence and joy they've gained. Clare also gave us the tools to support them at home, and the difference in our family life has been amazing. We are so grateful for the growth our child has experienced with her support.

~ Jennifer Thomson - Parent

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