Speech Buddy

Meet Our Team

CEO & Director Maria Ramai

Maria Ramai is the founder and owner of Speech Buddy, a multidisciplinary therapy organization serving families across Ontario. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the Medical University of Tirana in Albania, along with advanced certifications including Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, Brain Disorders Management, Bilingual Language Disorders, DTTC, Aromatherapy, Herbal Medicine, Play Therapy, ABA Therapy, Neuro Affirming Approaches and numerous professional development credentials. Maria doesn't work in a clinical capacity, she is focusing on her role as business owner.

Maria oversees all operations at Speech Buddy, including program development, clinical quality assurance, team coordination, hiring, training, and strategic growth. She has built a thriving organization with multiple service streams, a growing team, and a strong reputation for providing high-quality, family-centered support. Maria is dedicated to creating seamless systems, empowering staff, and building a supportive workplace culture rooted in professionalism, collaboration, and innovation.

Maria is also a published book writer, resource creator and digital tools developer. She designs therapy materials, articulation and apraxia workbooks, parent-training kits, therapist tools, and digital products used by clinicians and families across Canada. Her work combines child-friendly design with structured educational principles, offering accessible and engaging resources that support both therapists and parents.

With a background in speech therapy and nearly a decade of experience in the field (since 2016), Maria now focuses her expertise on leadership, business expansion, and resource creation. Her mission is to continue elevating the quality of pediatric therapy services while developing tools and systems that empower professionals and improve outcomes for children and families.

Co-Founder & Care Coordinator Idris Wahidi

Idris Wahidi is the Co-Owner of Speech Buddy and plays a key role in overseeing the organization’s operations, growth, and family support systems. With a Diploma in Social Service Work, Idris brings strong expertise in client relations, community support, and care coordination. His training allows him to approach each family’s needs with empathy, professionalism, and a deep understanding of social and developmental challenges.

At Speech Buddy, Idris manages administrative operations, scheduling systems, family onboarding, team coordination, and day-to-day organizational flow. He ensures that families receive timely communication, smooth service delivery, and a supportive experience from the moment they join the clinic.

Idris also contributes to program development, quality assurance, and business strategy, working closely with the leadership team to maintain high standards across all service areas. With a strong focus on structure and efficiency, he helps build systems that support therapists, streamline workflow, and enhance the overall client journey.

As Co-Owner, Idris is dedicated to creating a welcoming, professional, and family-centered environment. His commitment to service excellence and operational integrity plays an essential role in Speech Buddy’s continued growth and reputation across Ontario.

MS CCC SLP Frances Elvins

Frances Elvins is an experienced clinician with over 10 years working with paediatric communication disorders. She first started studying speech and language delays in 2004, earning a Communicative Disorders Assistant diploma, and then went on to pursue a BA in Communications Disorders, and her Masters Degree in Speech Language Pathology.

Frances is a warm clinician, who puts families right at ease with her kindness and great sense of humour. She has the ability to build rapport with children and parents the moment they enter her room. She engages children in therapy that feels like playing, but is strategically designed to target goals efficiently and effectively. In her free time Frances enjoys gardening, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and hanging out with her kids.

Memberships:

· Speech-Language Pathologist registered with the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario

· Speech-Language Pathologist registered with American Speech Language Hearing Association

· Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP)

Training and Certifications

Early Language and Literacy

· Hanen It Takes Two to Talk®

Speech Disorders (Articulation/Motor Speech/Apraxia of Speech)

· Certificate in Motor Speech Treatment Protocol (MTSP)

Social Communication and Autism

· Hanen More Than Words®

· Hanen 4Ls to Socialize®

Fluency/Stuttering:

· Personally trained by board certified fluency professional Craig Coleman

MSc SLP Umna Islam

Umna Islam is a CASLPO registered SLP who received her Master of Health Science in Speech-Language Pathology from University of Toronto in 2019. Umna is also certified through Speech-Language and Audiology Canada (SAC). Umna has clinical experience in the assessment and intervention of the pediatric population in a variety of settings that include schools, clinics and daycares. Umna has worked to provide service to those with receptive and expressive language delays, social communication delays, articulation/phonology, motor speech disorder, and literacy.

Umna really enjoys working with children that are Autistic, have Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy.

Umna is trained in Hanen It Takes Two to Talk- a caregiver focused program to provide early intervention to language delays. As well as certified in the Natural Language Acquisition Framework for Gestlalt Language Processors.

Umna is particularly interested in professional development and continues to participate in online workshops to learn more about the field and actively participates in research. Umna has previously worked in labs at McMaster University and SickKids Centre for Mental Health to develop a standardized language test.

Umna is passionate about creating a fun, learning experience for all her clients and likes working collaboratively with families on their child's individualized intervention. Every child is unique and it is Umna's utmost goal to help them communicate their best. She is fluent in English, Urdu and Hindi and provides speech and language therapy services virtually.

MSc SLP Hoson Abbas

Hoson is a dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist with over six years of experience, working primarily with children on the autism spectrum. She graduated from the University of Toronto in 2019 with a Master of Health Sciences in Speech-Language Pathology. She has a strong interest in literacy development and gestalt language processing, and is committed to providing meaningful, functional, and engaging therapy tailored to each child’s needs. She especially enjoys play-based therapy, which feels natural to children, is engaging, and helps children reach their speech and language goals.

Hoson is trained in the Hanen Centre’s It Takes Two to Talk® program, the Kaufman Childhood Apraxia of Speech methods for evaluation and treatment, and has completed continuing education in progressive and systematic speech and language training for children on the autism spectrum. She is currently completing continuing education coursework focused on literacy development. Her clinical experience spans a variety of settings, including clinics, schools, and First Nations reserves.

She strives to support every child in communicating to the best of their abilities. Hoson is deeply passionate about parent education and empowering families to play a vital role in their child’s speech and language development. Outside of her professional work, she is a parent of two and enjoys cooking and baking. She is fluent in English and Levantine Arabic. Hoson provides speech and language therapy services both virtually and in-person.

MADS BCBA/RBA Raneta Krylov

Raneta Krylov, a dedicated Board-Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) with extensive experience supporting children, youth, and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Intellectual Disabilities, and other associated challenges. With over two decades of experience since 2002, I bring a wealth of expertise to my practice. My academic accomplishments include a Master’s Degree in Applied Disability Studies from Brock University. I actively assist parents and professionals through a multifaceted approach, offering scheduled training workshops and personalized one-on-one hands-on sessions. These initiatives aim to empower and equip caregivers and specialists with the necessary tools for effective support. Since 2011, I have been serving as a Clinical Supervisor, offering oversight of program development and implementation for clients receiving services under the Ontario Autism Program (OAP). An active contributor to the field, I maintain membership with esteemed organizations such as the Ontario Association for Behaviour Analysis (ONTABA) and the Association for Behaviour Analysis International (ABAI).”

Raneta’s deep commitment to behavioural analysis has enabled her to develop highly effective intervention strategies and training programs that significantly benefit those with developmental challenges. Her expertise is also recognized through her certifications as a trained facilitator in the UCLA Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS) and as a certified trainer in Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI). Her work impacts not only her direct clients but also extends to training and empowering other professionals in the field, enhancing overall care standards and practices.

Specializing in:

Behaviour Analysis
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
Intellectual Disabilities.

MADS BCBS/RBA Anna Tikhonova

MEd BCBA/RBA Rana Kashef

Rana Kashef is a Registered Behavior Analyst in Ontario and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) since 2018. She has been working in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis since 2011, with professional experience spanning multiple countries and diverse clinical environments.

Rana has supported individuals aged 3 to 20 with developmental delays across clinic, school, and home-based settings. She is highly experienced in implementing and interpreting evidence-based assessment and curriculum tools, including the VB-MAPP, PEAK, and the Assessment of Functional Living Skills (AFLS).

Rana has a particular passion for fostering communication development, recognizing it as a foundational skill that supports growth across all other areas of learning. Her work is grounded in evidence-based practice, compassion, and a commitment to meaningful progress for every learner she supports.

MADS BCBA/RBA Jennifer Harper

Jennifer Harper is a highly experienced Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with two decades of expertise in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). She has dedicated her career to supporting children on the autism spectrum and their families, utilizing evidence-based ABA principles to foster skill development, particularly in language acquisition, social communication, and overall developmental growth.

Passionate about the science and research behind ABA, Jennifer firmly believes in its transformative potential to enhance the lives and abilities of individuals across all spectrums of need. Her extensive work spans a wide range of developmental stages, from guiding newly diagnosed toddlers—or those awaiting diagnosis—through early communication milestones to helping teenagers build independence and navigate the transition to adulthood.

Jennifer is recognized by the College of Psychologists and remains committed to upholding the highest standards of professional practice in behavioral therapy.

MOT BSC CDT Heidi Watson

Heidi Watson has been an occupational therapist since 2012. After graduating from the University of Manitoba she moved to south-east Saskatchewan. In 2013, she started her private practice while training for her combined decongestive therapy (CDT) designation. Heidi is a registered provider with the Saskatchewan Worker's Compensation Board (WCB), Jordan's Principle, and the Saskatchewan Autism Network and College of Occupational Therapist of Ontario.

Now a decade into practice, Heidi has experience working in Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Hand Therapy, Lymphedema, and Edema Management. She enjoys working with children with Autism and other developmental conditions including anxiety and depression.

Heidi is also known for her work with the Canadian Electronic Health Information System Ltd, and is the Architect for the innovative charting solution Guardian EMR.

Supervised Speech - Language Support Worker (SLTA) and Supervised Instructor Therapist Layla Wehbe

Layla Wehbe is an Instructor Therapist (ABA) and Speech Therapy Assistant with over four years of clinical experience and more than 20 years of experience in school settings as an educator. Her strong background in both teaching and therapeutic intervention allows her to support children with a well-rounded, play-based, and developmentally informed approach.

Throughout her career, Layla has completed numerous certifications in Applied Behavior Analysis and communication support, continually expanding her knowledge to better serve the children and families she works with. She is known for her warm, friendly personality, her patience, and her ability to build strong, positive relationships with her clients.

Layla excels at creating engaging, play-based learning environments where children feel motivated, supported, and understood. Her commitment to high-quality intervention, combined with her gentle and approachable style, makes her an invaluable member of the Speech Buddy team.

Supervised Speech - Language Support Worker (SLTA) Tina Fallis

Tina Fallis has been a Special Education Educator with the Peel District School Board for 25 years. In addition to her teaching experience, she is an Intervenor for the Deaf and Blind, Communicative Disorders Assistant for Speech Therapy, Certified Hypnotherapist with the National Guild, and Reiki Practitioner.

Tina hold a B.A. Psychology Degree, Diploma in Intervention for Deaf Blind Persons, TESOL Certified, Certified Member of the National Guild of Hypnotists NGH ID# 74395, and a Royal Conservatory of Music Certificate with proficiency in performance theory and ear training. She is a mother of three and passionate about creating a space where all children feel connected and heard. Tina is also trained in Applied Behavioural Analysis, Crisis Prevention Intervention, Neuro-Linguistic Programing, ASL, Braille and Two-Hand Manual for the Deaf and Blind.

Supervised Speech - Language Support Worker (SLTA) and Supervised Instructor Therapist Anumeha Thaku

Anumeha Thakur is an ABA Instructor Therapist and Speech Therapy Assistant who brings a unique combination of professional training and deeply personal experience to her work. Anumeha has 12 years of firsthand experience into the needs of neurodiverse children and their families. This personal journey has shaped her compassionate, patient, and family-centered approach.

In addition to her lived experience, Anumeha has completed multiple trainings and certifications in Applied Behavior Analysis, communication support, and child development. She is committed to continual learning and actively seeks opportunities to strengthen her skills and advance her expertise. She has been working in the field for the past one year.

Anumeha is known for her gentle, supportive presence and her dedication to helping each child progress at their own pace. With a strong desire to make a meaningful difference, she strives to create positive, engaging, and structured learning environments that empower both children and families.

Supervised Speech - Language Support Worker (SLTA) and RBT Nazia Syed

Nazia Syed is an experienced ABA therapist and speech therapist assistant. Over the past few years, she had the opportunity to work in multiple roles across the field of ABA and speech. Nazia has been an ABA Behaviour Therapist for over five years, a speech therapist assistant for more than two years, and currently, working as a Senior ABA Therapist.
Alongside her professional experience, Nazia is also pursuing my Master’s in Applied Disability Studies (MADS) with an ABA specialization at Brock University.
She passionate about helping individuals with autism and developmental disabilities build meaningful communication, social, and behavioural skills. Every day reminds her why she chose this field to make a lasting, positive impact through compassion, collaboration, and evidence-based practice.

Supervised Speech - Language Support Worker (SLTA) and RBT Katarina Curciija

Supervised Instructor Therapist Varinda Sharma

Varinda Sharma, a dedicated Behavioural Therapist with extensive experience of supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), along with experience of working with patients of clinical disorders. With over two years of working experience in the field of autism and overall 5 years of working in the field of psychology, I bring a wealth of expertise to my practice. My academic accomplishments include a bachelor’s degree in psychology and One year of specialization in the field of Addictions and Mental health from Humber College. I actively assist parents and professionals through a multifaceted approach, offering scheduled training workshops and personalized one-on-one hands-on sessions. These initiatives aim to empower and equip caregivers and specialists with the necessary tools for effective support.

Supervised Instructor Therapist Kritika Bhargav

Kritika Bhargav is a committed Behaviour Therapist specializing in supporting children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and developmental challenges. She holds an M.A. in Psychology and an Advanced Diploma in Guidance and Counselling and is currently advancing her expertise through the Autism and Behavioural Science Graduate Certificate at Durham College.

With training in behavioural assessment and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), she supports the development of communication, social skills, daily living routines, and emotional regulation. She delivers structured therapy, collects accurate data, and implements individualized goals under clinical supervision. She builds strong connections with children and works collaboratively with families and the clinical team to promote meaningful progress.

Supervised Speech - Language Support Worker (SLTA) Marcia Yeo

Supervised Speech - Language Support Worker (SLTA) Sandra Medina

Occupational Therapist Assistant Vanessa Clarke

Occupational Therapist Assistant Kimberlyn DeSouza

Supervised Speech - Language Support Worker (SLTA) and Occupational Therapist Assistant Maram Jaber

Respite Worker Fizza Arshad

Respite Worker Asya Kahzam

Respite Worker Naeemah Gafiddien

Respite Worker Siba Jibbawi

Supervised Instructor Therapist Anya Yakhnay

Anya Yakhnay is a trilingual Instructor Therapist with extensive experience supporting neurodiverse children and youth using developmentally informed, trauma-sensitive approaches. With over five years of applied behavioral experience across clinical, community, school, and home-based environments, she collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to deliver individualized intervention and evidence-based therapeutic programming.

Anya has supported children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, ADHD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, depression, and early-onset personality disorders. She is trained in Safety-Care crisis intervention and has experience managing dysregulation, aggression, and self-injurious behaviors with calm leadership and therapeutic insight.

Known for her warm, empathetic presence and strong rapport-building skills, Anya creates structured yet playful learning environments where children feel safe, supported, and understood. Her clinical mission is to help children communicate effectively, self-regulate confidently, and develop skills that empower meaningful participation both within and beyond therapeutic settings

Supervised Instructor Therapist Stephanie Madter

Stephanie is an Instructor Therapist (IT) with over twelve years of experience supporting children across home, childcare, school, and therapeutic environments. She holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) from Brock University, where she specialized in Teaching, Learning, and Development. Stephanie is currently working toward her goal of becoming a Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA), expected in 2027, and continue to expand her skills in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). In addition to her clinical work, she is a full-time Education Assistant with the Peel District School Board, where she gains extensive experience supporting diverse learners, implementing behaviour strategies, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

Stephanie was drawn to this career out of a passion for giving children with exceptionalities and their families a voice, and helping them grow, thrive, and succeed in every aspect of their lives. Throughout her career, she has focused on creating individualized, evidence-based strategies that promote communication, social skills, independence, and emotional regulation. Stephanie is committed to building strong connections with children and families and strive to make a meaningful, lasting impact in every setting she supports.

Supervised Instructor Therapist Enas Alnajjar

Enas Alnajjar is a dedicated Behaviour Therapist with 3 years of hands-on experience supporting children with special needs across a variety of developmental settings. She is known for her warm, patient, and child-centred approach, building strong therapeutic relationships while helping children develop meaningful communication, social, and behavioural skills.

Enas holds an Early Childhood Education Diploma with Honours from Sheridan College and an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Labour Studies from McMaster University. She is a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) with the College of Early Childhood Educators of Ontario.

With a strong foundation in child development and behaviour support, Enas excels at implementing individualized behaviour intervention plans, promoting positive behaviours, and supporting emotional regulation and daily living skills. She collaborates closely with families and multidisciplinary teams to ensure consistency, progress, and meaningful outcomes for each child.

Enas is deeply passionate about empowering children to reach their full potential and is committed to creating supportive, inclusive, and engaging environments where every child can thrive.

Supervised Speech and Language Support Worker (SLTA) Nadia Wahidi

Nadia is a dedicated Speech Therapy Assistant with a strong passion for supporting children’s speech, language, and communication development. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a minor in Human Resources from Toronto Metropolitan University and has completed relevant coursework in speech and language development, child development, phonetics, and communication disorders.

She enjoys creating a fun, supportive, and encouraging learning environment where children feel comfortable and motivated to participate. Working closely with speech-language pathologists, she assists in delivering engaging, evidence-based therapy sessions that build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and promote meaningful progress. Her goal is to help each child feel successful while fostering a positive and enjoyable learning experience as they develop their speech and language abilities.

Welcome to Speech Buddy Speech, ABA and Occupational Therapy