Hi, I'm Karen
BEHAVIOUR INTERVENTIONIST . BRITISH COLUMBIA
I'm a Behaviour Interventionist and Early Childhood Educator with more than 12 years of experience supporting children, youth, and families across home, school, community, and early learning environments. I have a special passion for working with children who are often misunderstood, helping families and the professionals around them see beyond the behaviour to recognize the incredible potential within every child.
“Every child has unique strengths, and when we choose to see the child before the behaviour, we create opportunities for meaningful growth, connection, and lifelong success.”
Beyond the office
Outside of work, I'm a proud mom to an incredible daughter, a very energetic puppy named Ody, and a handsome kitty named Nikko. I love spending time outdoors, hiking, travelling, and hunting down great dessert spots. My Christian faith is an important part of my life and continues to guide me in serving others with compassion, kindness, and hope.
Apart from English, I speak Spanish (fluent), and French (conversational) — so if your family's home language isn't English, there's a good chance we can meet in the middle.
My Story
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Growing up, I was surrounded by children who were often misunderstood and labelled because of their behaviours or circumstances. Even as a young person, I found myself wondering what they had experienced and who they could become if someone took the time to truly understand them. Those experiences inspired me to pursue my Youth and Child Care Worker Diploma in 2013, and that journey has since grown into a 12-year career spanning Early Childhood Education and Behaviour Intervention. I've learned that meaningful change happens when we take the time to understand the child before we respond to the behaviour.
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One of the experiences that has shaped me most has been watching children who were often defined by their challenges begin to recognize their own strengths and abilities. Seeing the confidence that grows when a child feels understood, supported, and successful reinforced my belief that meaningful change begins with relationships. I believe behaviour is communication, and every child deserves to be seen for who they are — not defined by the challenges they may be experiencing.
My Approach
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I’m passionate about supporting children from infancy through adolescence as they develop communication, emotional regulation, independence, social skills, and confidence. Having worked in early learning programs, elementary and middle schools, community programs, family homes, and behaviour intervention settings, I understand how to build practical, individualized strategies that carry across every environment in a child's life.
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I believe every family is the expert on their own child, and my role is to work alongside them as a supportive partner. I strive to create a warm, judgment-free environment where families feel heard, respected, and empowered. My approach is relationship-focused, strengths-based, and evidence-informed — combining compassion with practical strategies that fit each family's unique needs and everyday routines.
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You will never be judged by me. Parenting can be overwhelming, and reaching out for support is a courageous step. My hope is that when we work together, you feel heard, supported, and encouraged. I will celebrate your child's strengths just as much as their progress, and I will always believe in their potential — even on the days when it feels difficult to see it.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Early Childhood Care and Education (currently completing) · Capilano University
Youth and Child Care Worker Diploma · 2013
FURTHER TRAINING
Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT) coursework · in progress
Early Childhood Educator, Infant & Toddler Educator, Special Needs Educator certifications
Child Development Supervisor (Level 3) · Government of Alberta, 2018
Ready to work together?
Book a consultation and let's talk about how Emily and the YBG team can support you.