Meet The Team

Alicia is a "dancer by trade," a former nanny-turned-Drama Therapist (M.A., CCC), and a mother. She fell in love with working with kids in her teens when she taught dance to kids from 3 to 15. During the dance program at York University (BFA, 2006) she became interested in the intersection between the arts and therapy, and the therapeutic nature of movement.

Alicia was a very happy nanny for ten years, and feels privileged to have witnessed and supported so many amazing parents. In her time as a nanny she became fascinated by different parenting styles and strategies, and prided herself on being able to help families' lives run smoother by applying behavioral science, using creativity, and leading with love. She focused her Master's research on how play and movement-based Drama Therapy interventions can help repair damaged attachment relationships for families who struggle with behavioral issues. After graduating from the Concodia Drama Therapy M.A. (2016), she worked one on one with kids with behavioral challenges, as well as those on the Autism Spectrum using Drama Therapy techniques. She has also worked with teens and adults who were neuro- and physically diverse through a company called Purple Carrots. In 2018 she co-developed a program called the Purple Playspace, in which she co-facilitated workshops on emotional regulation and empathy through drama in TDSB schools.

Alicia believes strongly in the healing power of the arts, and is a fierce protector of mamas everywhere. Alicia takes a family-systems, attachment-based, trauma-informed, and anti-oppression approach to therapy. She is passionate about providing equitable access to play and therapy services to families across the economic spectrum. Alicia is beyond excited to be embarking on this new venture, and growing a more resilient, playful community of familiess

Roxy Macdonald is an award-winning children's content creator, writer, and educator who specializes in teaching mindfulness practices and self-regulation skills to preschool and elementary-aged children. She is currently employed at a daycare in the east end of Toronto, where she takes pride in supporting the children with a creative and playful approach. She enjoys reciting poetry to children on nature walks, especially anything by Dennis Lee or William Blake. Roxy is excited to be working with kids and families in her own community of St. Clair West.

Shalon T. Webber-Heffernan is a Toronto-based yoga teacher, movement educator, and mother with a passion for helping children and families connect through movement and mindfulness. She is certified in Kids, Hatha, Power, and Postnatal Yoga, and holds Reiki Level 2 certification. Her teaching is informed by years of study in somatic practices, including Authentic Movement and Body-Mind Centering. Alongside her work as a yoga teacher, Shalon is a faculty member at Dance Arts Institute (formerly the School of Toronto Dance Theatre) and holds a PhD in Theatre and Performance Studies, where her research explored embodiment, creativity, and community.

Kate Martin has a BFA in fine arts from OCAD. Since 2007, she's worked as a private art instructor for children and teens. She opened her own art school in the North York area in 2015, which continues to thrive and grow. Kate is passionate about working with children of different ages and abilities, and meeting them “where they’re at” in the moment. She also has a focus on art and art materials that reflect environmental causes, and sustainable living. Kate is a fellow local mom in the St. Clair Ave. West neighborhood, and is excited about working in her own community for the first time.