My name is Dianne Dalisay, and I am honoured to be part of The Lighthouse as The Director of Philanthropy. I have been fortunate to be in the field for almost 20 years. My passion for children with Autism and their families is a huge part of my life. It has given the foundational perspective in raising our four children at home.

Anyone that knows someone or has a child with Autism, definitely knows that The Lighthouse is like a dream come true, it’s like a unique hidden gem! To have a child learn in an environment where their teachers and therapists have the skills to optimize their individual needs and to have the ability to work so closely with families – it’s like the magic ingredient to having a successful program. I believe I have found the winning ticket when I joined The Lighthouse Team in 2016!

I graduated from York University with a Degree in Linguistics, my goal was to further my studies in Speech and Language. I decided I wanted more hands- on experience in the field , so I decided to continue my studies at George Brown College and completed a Certification in Developmental Disabilities. This is when I discovered the world of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). I became so immediately fascinated in learning about Autism and very quickly found myself researching more on the field, as it was still something “new”.

My first job in the field was with Mackenzie Health Hospital, as an Instructor Therapist. The Central East Autism Program for York Region in collaboration with Kinark Family Services. I received my provincial training and monthly supervision evaluations that were conducted by Clinical Supervisors and Senior Therapists. This is where I was formally trained on conducting The Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills (ABLLS) and The Verbal Behaviour Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP). I also had the opportunity to collaborate in program planning, staff and parent training. I have immense experience conducting 1-1 therapy within a variety of environments such as In-home, Clinics, Centres, and Transition Classes in partnership with The York Region Public School Board.

I am truly grateful to have worked with many Therapists, Behaviour Consultants,Psychologists, Board Certified Behaviour Analysts (BCBA), Clinical Supervisors, Teachers, Speech and Language Pathologists (SLP) and Occupational Therapist (OT). I knew that the only way I was going to be the best therapist, was to learn from others and take everyday as a learning experience. Collectively they have taught me skills that I pass to our amazing team. The Lighthouse is full of eager passionate therapists and teachers that want to make a huge difference in the lives of the children and they give it their all everyday. A strong team creates hope, and we want to give all our families HOPE! Much love and gratitude to all the children, their families and the inspiring team I work with everyday – it is because of you that I’m inspired to continue to live life to the fullest!