About Us
At Tumbleweed Health Services, we specialize in empowering individuals and families to achieve their goals at home, school, and in the community. We are dedicated to building meaningful connections by fostering resilience, flexibility, and communication skills in our clients. Through a compassionate and personalized approach, we help clients develop a deeper understanding of social relationships, enabling them to navigate life’s challenges with confidence. For our clients with autism, we utilize the principles of Relationship Development Intervention (RDI), focusing on strengthening connections with loved ones as a foundation for meaningful learning and growth. We guide families on a journey of discovery and progress, ensuring that each client can thrive in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Therapy Models & Interventions we Love
RDI
Growth through strengthening relationships
PEERS
Making implicit social rules explicit
Zones of Regulation
Emotional understanding in colors
Heidi Watson (Occupational Therapist)
Hi, I’m Heidi. As a dedicated occupational therapist passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their fullest potential, I am thrilled to be part of the Therapy Works team. With over 10 years of experience in pediatrics, I am committed to supporting children, youth, and young adults on their developmental journey.
I hold a Masters in Occupational Therapy from the University of Manitoba and am a registered member of the College of Occupational Therapists of British Columbia (COTBC). My expertise lies in conducting comprehensive assessments, developing customized intervention plans, and implementing evidence-based therapy strategies. Whether providing therapeutic interventions, collaborating with schools, or advocating for inclusive environments, I am dedicated to facilitating successful therapeutic outcomes.
I love exploring nature through hiking, boating, and snowshoeing in my free time. When not immersed in my occupational therapy work, I often express my creativity through art. I enjoy painting and sewing as outlets for self-expression and relaxation.
Heidi Watson – MOT, BSc
Shannon D’Silva (OTA)
Hi! My name is Shannon and I am joining Tumbleweed Health Services as an OTA providing virtual programming under Heidi Watson (Registered OT). I am an aspiring OT who is dedicated to supporting youth and older adults on their journey to living more meaningful lives. In session, I will use a play-based approach to develop the skills that matter most to you and your child! Overall, I am dedicated to helping my clients reach their full potential and achieve their goals using a tailored intervention plan developed by a licensed OT.
Educational Background: I am a recent graduate from the University of Guelph with a BASc in Family Studies and Human Development and a minor in Psychology.
Experience: I have previously worked with children with ASD, ADHD, OCD, Down Syndrome, Depression, Anxiety in multiple environments. I have also worked with older adults with various physical/mental health disabilities in extended care/retirement homes engaging residents in recreational and exercise programming.
A little bit about me…
- My pronouns are she/her
- My favourite colour is purple
- I have an identical twin sister
- I love taking care of my plants
- I enjoy watching Netflix but I LOVE all things Disney
~ Shannon D’Silva, BASc
Dr. Tare Matiza (MD Psychologist)
Dr. Tare Matiza is a compassionate physician specializing in Psychotherapy. With a deep understanding of the connection between mental health, physical health, and overall well-being, Dr. Matiza is dedicated to providing holistic care that supports his patients in achieving balance and wellness.
Through Unity Wellness, Dr. Matiza collaborates with Tumbleweed Health Services to offer integrated care that bridges physical, mental, and occupational health. This partnership allows clients to benefit from a seamless approach to their mental health care, addressing a broad range of needs. Currently,
Dr. Matiza is currently accepting private-pay virtual patients in Saskatchewan, making his expertise accessible to individuals seeking high-quality care from the comfort of their homes. Passionate about empowering others, he fosters a welcoming environment where patients feel heard, supported, and equipped to navigate their health journeys.
Kimberley Kaufman (OTA)
Hi, I’m Kim! I work as an occupational therapist assistant (OTA) under the supervision of Heidi Watson. I mainly work with children and young adults who need support to handle the stressors and symptoms of ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, and PDA. I am committed to learning as much as possible about supporting children, youth, and young adults on their developmental journey.
I am a 4th-year Bachelor of Social Work student learning about and implementing creative interventions, evidence-based and person-centered approaches, and incorporating strengths-based practices. My experience working with young adults and children as a swimming instructor helps me continue to learn and try again when I miss the mark in sessions!
Fun fact: I love animals and can be found trying to befriend any I meet.
Mia Lam (Occupational Therapist)
Mia Lam is a dedicated pediatric occupational therapist with 15 years of extensive experience in helping children reach their full potential. She holds a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Western Ontario and a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, equipping her with a strong foundation in both therapeutic and physical development. A passionate advocate for children’s growth, Mia is certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Play-Based Therapy, and Motor Learning Therapy. Her expertise in these areas allows her to employ innovative and effective therapeutic strategies tailored to each child’s unique needs. Additionally, she has completed Therapy Coaching Levels 1 and 2, further enhancing her ability to empower both children and their families through personalized support.
Mia’s professional journey has taken her across national and international landscapes, where she has worked collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams to support diverse cases. Her commitment to fostering the development of “kid geniuses” shines through her hands-on approach, focusing on enabling children to learn beyond their perceived limits.
In addition to her clinical work, Mia has successfully mentored therapy assistants, enriching the field with her knowledge and nurturing the next generation of therapists. She also draws from her personal experience, having coached her younger brother to achieve Olympic and World Championship level success in his sport, showcasing her exceptional coaching skills and understanding of athletic development. Mia’s unique blend of expertise, passion, and commitment to children’s development makes her a valuable asset to any therapeutic setting. Her unwavering belief in the abilities of children, paired with her innovative strategies, allows her to create impactful, lasting change in the lives of the families she serves.
We’d love to work with you!
Address
Our licensed therapists are able to support Canadians living in BC, SK, ON, NT, YT, NL, NU
Office hour
Sunday – Thursday