Finding My ‘Why’: A Journey from Student Placement to Clinical Leadership
As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we’re spotlighting the dedicated staff who embody the mission of LRCSS. In this post, Clinical Manager Andrea Simpson shares her “why”.
For me, finding my ‘why’ wasn’t immediate; it was a series of purposeful steps, sparked by curiosity and fueled by the profound impact of seeing a child reach their full potential.
My journey began during my Bachelor’s degree in Child and Youth Studies. While taking a course on Autism, something sparked my interest and curiosity. Beyond the theory, I was fascinated by the unique ways individuals process the world. This curiosity led me to a Graduate Certificate in Autism and Behavioural Science, which provided the technical foundation I needed to turn that interest into a career.
My second student placement was right here at Lake Ridge Community Support Services. This is truly where I found my passion for ABA and supporting clients to reach their full potential. I was hired on as an Instructor Therapist during the last half of my placement. In those early days, my growth was measured in small, beautiful and meaningful victories: a first word, a successful transition, or a caregiver sharing their gratitude.
"ABA isn't just about 'fixing' behaviours; it’s about increasing autonomy and improving the quality of life for the individuals and families who trust us with their care."
As I immersed myself in the work, I realized that to provide the best possible support, I needed to go deeper into the "how" and "why" of our science. I pursued my Master of Education in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), which allowed me to transition into a Behaviour Consultant role. Following completion of my Masters I became a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) and later a Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA) as Ontario transitioned to the College of Psychologists and Behaviours Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO) in 2024.
In this Behaviour Consultant role, my lens expanded. I wasn't just working one-on-one; I was supporting diverse populations and tackling a wide array of socially significant goals. I learned that ABA isn't just about "fixing" behaviours; it’s about increasing autonomy and improving the quality of life for the individuals and families who trust us with their care.
Today, my path has led me to a leadership role as a Clinical Manager, overseeing two programs in the Ontario Autism Program (OAP): the Entry to School program and Project ImPACT. This transition felt like a natural evolution of my "why."
"There is an incredible fulfillment in witnessing the ripple effect: when a clinician grows in confidence, the quality of care for our families reaches new heights."
What shapes my path today is the collaboration between staff development and client success. There is an incredible fulfillment in:
Mentoring clinicians as they find their own "why" and refine their clinical skills.
Building systems and collaborating with partner agencies to ensure our programs sets up our clients and staff for success.
Witnessing the ripple effect: when a clinician grows in confidence, the quality of care for our families reaches new heights.
My career has been a climb. From a foundational bachelor’s course to the broader picture of clinical management. My "why" is rooted in the belief that every individual deserves a seat at the table and the tools to succeed. Whether I am supporting a child’s first day of program or helping a clinician navigate a complex case, I am driven by the same thing that started it all: the beauty of progress, no matter how small.