Speech-Language Pathology
Anahita Dastur is a graduate from the University of British Columbia, where she completed her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Through her education, she has gained experience working with children and youth with a range of speech and language disorders, including apraxia of speech, stuttering, articulation, autism, and language delay. She has developed a passion for helping young children with social-language needs reach their communicative potential, and brings a great deal of enthusiasm and energy to each of her sessions. She enjoys working with clients both individually and in group settings, and works together with children and their families to create a positive communication environment. Anahita is listed on the Registry of Autism Service Providers (RASP) through MCFD.
Anahita holds the title of Director of Language and supports our SLP team.
Arsha Shaji: Registered Speech language pathologist
Arsha Shaji has a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology and a bachelor's in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from India. She has worked as a Speech Therapist in various capacities in India, Kenya and Canada. The diverse work history has given her a breadth of knowledge to draw from. Her clinical experience over the last 10 years has focused on early intervention, parent coaching, AAC including aided language modelling, PECS and Makaton signing, speech sound delays/errors, supporting children with Autism, Downs syndrome, cleft lip and/or palate, hearing loss and other special needs. She strives to make each session effective, fun and exciting. Arsha registered with the CSHHPBC, SAC. She is also a member of BCASLPA. She is multilingual in English, Hindi, Malayalam and Kannada. Arsha is listed on the Registry of Autism Service Providers (RASP) through MCFD.
Arsha works at the ASD Wonder Centre every day except Friday - CURRENTLY ON MATERNITY
Raela Newman: Speech Language Pathologist
Raela Newman studied Speech-Language Pathology at the University of British Columbia, where she developed a passion for creative and individualized therapy that is grounded in evidence. Throughout her time there, she gained experience with many types of clients, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Childhood Apraxia of Speech, Down syndrome, language delays, and other developmental differences. She believes in working alongside families to bring about positive changes in communicative abilities to maximize a child's ability to express themselves and connect with others. Raela is listed on the Registry of Autism Service Providers (RASP) through MCFD.
Raela works at the ASD Wonder Centre Monday-Thursday
Lydia Rhi MSc. Speech Language Pathologist
Lydia Rhi completed her Masters in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of British Columbia. She has experience supporting both children and adults with their speech, language, and communication goals in a variety of settings. She worked with preschool and school-aged children with various communication disorders, including language disorders, speech sound disorders, stuttering, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Down Syndrome, and developmental delays. Lydia is passionate about working with children with ASD and their families to build functional communication skills for everyday activities. Lydia also has experience working with adults who have suffered a stroke or brain injury resulting in communication and/or swallowing difficulties. Lydia is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of British Columbia (CSHBC) and of Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC). Lydia is listed on the Registry of Autism Service Providers (RASP) through MCFD.
Lydia offers services in both English and Korean.
Joleen Schmidt
Cassidy Fernandes Speech-language pathologist
Cassidy Fernandes is a dedicated and compassionate professional with a wealth of experience in the field of speech and language therapy, particularly in working with preschool and school-age children grappling with various speech and language disorders. Demonstrating a commitment to inclusive practices, Cassidy has a keen interest in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and neurodiversity affirming therapy. With a holistic approach to language processing, Cassidy utilizes gestalt principles to foster her student’s language development. Beyond the professional realm, Cassidy's passions extend to the great outdoors, finding joy and rejuvenation through hiking and backpacking. Additionally, Cassidy has creative pursuits, including sewing, knitting, and painting.
Cassidy works Monday-Friday at our Maple Ridge Centre