The Pinwheel Wellness Centre strives to address a province-wide challenge that Autistic individuals/individuals on the autism spectrum and supporters of the autism community have seen firsthand; specifically, the lack of mental health support and service capacity for Autistic individuals/individuals with autism. 

About the Speaker

Katelyn has 10+ years of experience working in both private and not-for-profit sectors with Autistic individuals/individuals on the autism spectrum ages 16 to 70.  

A Halifax native, Katelyn graduated with her Master of Social Work (Clinical/Medical stream) at New York University (NYU ’18) where she completed two practicums at YAI: The National Institute for Adults with Disabilities Network; one with the Department of Clinical & Family Services and the second with Premier Healthcare’s Centre for Specialty Therapy. Post-graduation, Katelyn completed additional training with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) and has received designation as a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS).
 
Katelyn has worked at two clinics since 2018 in the boroughs of Queens and the Bronx, where she gained experience providing mental health and wellness support to various populations as a healthcare social worker. Through her education and experience, she has developed a strong desire for anti-oppressive practices and works from a strength-based, person-centered approach.
 
At the Pinwheel Wellness Centre, Katelyn oversees the day-to-day operations and is the first point of contact for services. She provides intake coordination, field instruction, training, and brief therapy interventions to promote self-management of emotional well-being with the aim of improving one’s overall quality of life.