Understanding the Diagnosis: What’s Next?

Receiving an autism diagnosis can feel overwhelming—we want to help you feel supported!

Applying for the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) & Other Funding

Navigating funding can be confusing, but you don’t have to do it alone! We’ll walk you through the OAP application process, eligibility requirements, and tips for maximizing available financial supports. We’ll also explore other funding options beyond OAP.

Finding the Right Services & Therapies

From ABA and speech therapy to OT and mental health support, we’ll discuss the different types of services available, how to find providers, and what to consider when choosing the best fit for your child.

Building a Support System: Connecting with Other Parents & Local Resources

Learn where to find parent support groups, community programs, and advocacy organizations to help you navigate challenges and celebrate successes together.

And More!

Jesenia (Jese) Duran brings a wealth of experience in applied behavior analysis and a deep commitment to supporting individuals with autism to her role as director of Sunshine Learning Centre. As a supervising Registered Behaviour Analyst with the CPBAO and a BCBA with the BACB, Jese has honed her expertise since 2018 through various positions at the centre, including instructor therapist and senior therapist. Her academic background, featuring a diploma in Developmental Services Worker, a B.Sc. in Psychology, and a Master's in Applied Disability Studies with a specialization in ABA, bolsters her practical skills. Her certifications encompass crucial aspects of hands-on care and training, such as Skills-Based Treatment and social skills development, complemented by rigorous ethical training.

Jese's approach to teaching the course "Navigating Autism Diagnosis and Applying for OAP Funding" is infused with her passion for empowering individuals with autism and the families who support them. She draws on her extensive experience in skills and behavioral assessments and evidence-based interventions to provide concrete, actionable knowledge. Her instruction is not simply about imparting theory, but about fostering understanding, celebrating neurodiversity, and guiding students to implement impactful interventions. Jese is dedicated to the philosophy that quality of life is paramount and that the role of an educator and behavioral analyst is to enhance lives while honoring the unique personhood of each individual.