About Us

Courtney Riesterer is a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) with nine years of experience supporting children and families impacted by autism and other developmental disabilities. Courtney received her Master’s of Education in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio.

Courtney has dedicated her time to multiple areas of clinical support for children with developmental disabilities including helping with the international implementation of digital ABA software to better track and support children’s outcomes with the Canadian government, assisting in the development of an employment program for adults on the autism spectrum, and working directly with children and families implementing behavioural intervention programs. She works on all areas of child development using a behaviour analytic approach, and specializes in verbal/non-verbal communication, behavioural sleep treatment, and sexualized behaviours/education.

Courtney founded Northern Star Behaviour Services in Edmonton, Alberta in April of 2021 determined to offer the highest quality of care families could receive in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) intervention. Her leadership and dedication to families and children is continuously exemplified in her work. Northern Star is proud to offer tele-health services in remote communities to families who could not otherwise access services based on their geography, as well as other minority culture groups including Indigenous populations.

Through the creation of Northern Star Behaviour Services, Courtney is excited to lead by example offering meaningful intervention, education for parents and families, and significant outcomes that parents feel leaves a lasting impression in their lives.

Mack Riesterer is the Co-owner and Director of Operations of Northern Star Behaviour Services. His background in Power Engineering equips him with skills in problem solving, team management, and system efficiencies. While our clients may never meet Mack, he is always working in the background, whether it is software related, or another variation of staff support.

Mack is the husband of Courtney, the Director, and enjoys supporting their family-owned operation. Mack is also contributing to Northern Star endeavours to support First Nation and Indigenous families, as he is proudly Metis and would like to see equitable care available for all cultural backgrounds.

Jennifer is Northern Star’s Administrative Coordinator and handles the day-to-day duties behind the scenes. She provides support to the families we serve as well as the clinical team.

She is devoted to helping parents navigate through the complex process of attaining FSCD funding, which can often be an overwhelming experience for families.

Jennifer is the connection between families and Northern Star team members and every family can be assured they are in the best of hands from the very first phone call they make regarding Autism services.

She has all the essential tools to provide families with everything they need while working alongside a brilliant and committed team! She looks forward to answering any query you may have about services, staff, the FSCD process, or to discuss anything you or your child may need!

Veena attained her Bachelor’s degree in Education at the University of Alberta in 2007 and worked with a wide range of special needs individuals in Edmonton, Alberta at various schools, homes and agencies. It was during this time she realized that she wanted to specialize in treating behavioral challenges and cognitive deficits and ventured from Canada to USA to pursue her Master’s degree. In 2012, she graduated from the University of Washington with a Master’s in Education specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis and was awarded the Golden Millennial scholarship for top honors of academic achievement. She received her BCBA certification in 2014 and moved to Los Angeles, California to work as a Clinical Supervisor (BCBA) in IEBI (2014 – 2016) and at Intercare Therapy (2016-2022) with her area of specialties being in Discrete Trial Training (DTT) , early childhood development and training parents to apply behavioral interventions to increase their child’s growth in various developmental domains. She has a strong passion for applied behavior analysis and has observed progress in over a hundred clients by applying the interventions and principles of ABA. In June 2022, she and her fiancé moved to her hometown of Edmonton, Alberta to be closer to family and is currently enjoying life back in Canada.

Connie is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) from Mississauga, Ontario, and has been in the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis for 7 years. She holds a Master’s degree in Applied Disabilities Studies from Brock University, specializing in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), post graduate certificate in Behavioural Science at Humber College, and a Hons B.A. in Psychology from York University.

Connie has been implementing treatment to individuals with Autism and other developmental disorders aged 2 to 23 years old, all with varying abilities. Some of her expertise include implementing programs and teaching in either a 1 to 1 or group format, behaviour management, staff training, and evaluating programs and behaviour support plans. She currently works to virtually support rural, Alberta based families through parent training and individualized intervention plans for behaviour with Northern Star. Connie also works in the Autism department at one of the children’s hospitals in Hamilton, Ontario, providing consultation services and parent coaching for teaching various skills and managing challenging behaviours.

Connie also has personal experience when it comes to Autism. She was inspired to get into the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis as her youngest brother is on the spectrum and growing up, she had classmates and family friends who were also on the spectrum. Connie hopes that with her experiences, she will be able to support and provide services that are catered to the client and that will make a meaningful impact and positive change in their lives, and of their families as well.

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Shizhuo “Raphael” Cheng is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with a background in psychology, philosophy, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Philosophy from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and later completed his Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis at Michigan State University.

Raphael began his workin behavioral and clinical services through experiences in pediatric and mental health settings before specializing in applied behavior analysis. During his graduate training at Michigan State University’s Early Learning Institute, he worked with young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in an early intensive behavioral intervention setting. His experience included implementing individualized skill acquisition and behavior reduction programs, collecting and analyzing behavioral data, assisting with functional behavior assessments, and teaching communication, social, and adaptive skills through both structured and naturalistic teaching approaches.

After completing his graduate training, Raphael joined Action Behavior Centers in Austin, Texas,where he progressed from an advanced BCBA trainee role to practicing as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. As a BCBA, he managed clinical cases for children with autism, conducted functional behavior assessments, developed and modified individualized treatment programs, supervised and trained Behavior Technicians,and provided caregiver training to promote the generalization and maintenanceof skills across settings. He also collaborated with other professionals, including speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists, to support comprehensive and individualized care.

Raphael’s clinical interests include early childhood intervention, functional assessment, verbal behavior, caregiver training, and data-based clinical decision-making. His background in psychology and behavioral research, along with his experience working across the United States and China, has contributed to his interest in culturally responsive and family-centered behavioral services. He is fluent in Mandarin Chinese and English and is passionate about helping children and families achieve meaningful, socially significant improvements in theireveryday lives.

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Dr. Farzad Zare-Bawani is an Associate Professor of Psychology and a practicing Clinical Psychologist with Child and forensic specialties. Dr. Zare-Bawani works with a wide range of clients, including families, couples, children, and adults. He has extensive experience in therapy and assessment, in multicultural community environments, and with multi-lingual clients. His work and experience with children encompasses a variety of assessment techniques and focuses on the psycho-social needs of children with neurodevelopmental disorders.  Dr. Zare-Bawani often works with the families, schools, and communities of these children and uses a variety of methods to assist parents, teachers, medical staff, and caseworkers. 

Isaiah Lauder is a Behaviour Consultant with over 5 years of experience He holds a B.A. in psychology and earned a Behavioural Interventions Certificate from MacEwan University and is currently working towards getting his master's degree to become a future Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

Isaiah has worked with many families to provide a wide range of behavioural supports to children from 4 to 12 years of age. His knowledge in the field extends from behaviour management to skill acquisition and training other staff members in foundational techniques. Isaiah especially enjoys helping children develop functional communication and self-help skills. He has acquired a deep understanding of what it takes to implement effective treatment and when changes to treatment need to occur for the best outcomes.

Outside of work, Isaiah enjoys being active through sport and exercise and likes to include physical activity in his sessions when appropriate. He is highly enthusiastic about working with families to achieve meaningful improvements to their daily living.

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Sara is a Bachelor of Arts graduate with a major in Honours Psychology from MacEwan University and a soon-to-be Master of Arts graduate in Applied Disability Studies (specializing in applied behaviour analysis) from Brock University. Sara first became interested in applied behaviour analysis during her undergrad, excited about the possibility to directly impart meaningful changes for children and their families.

During grad school Sara has adopted a behaviour analytic mindset and believes all individuals can positively grow in an environment that enables them to do so. Sara is collecting hours towards her board-certified behaviour analyst (BCBA) certification. Her ultimate goal is to support individuals and their families in achieving their goals.

When not working Sara loves to watch movies, create artwork and spend time friends and family.

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Sama is a dedicated Behaviour Consultant currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and working toward becoming a BoardCertified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). She has a thorough understanding of children’s developmental stages and the unique challenges they may face at different ages. Sama has professional experience working with children ranging from toddlers to teenagers and also brings valuable hands-on, personal experience as a parent of a child with ASD.

In addition to her professional work, Sama volunteers with a therapeutic riding program supporting individuals with disabilities, further strengthening her compassionate, person-centered approach. She is passionate about identifying each child’s strengths and using them as a foundation to help overcome challenges. Sama is committed to supporting children and families with empathy, patience, and evidence-based strategies to promote meaningful growth and positive outcomes.

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Lucas Cameron has been working in the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis since 2023. He has completed the course requirements for his Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology as well as earning his Behavioural Interventions Certificate of Achievement from MacEwan University. Lucas is excited to continue his work, soon pursueing a master's degree in the field of ABA continuing his efforts towards becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Lucas has a specialty in working with children with developmental disabilities, complex and challenging behaviors, and his overall passion is helping families reach their goals.

When he's not working Lucas loves to play and create music, spend time with his dog, and watch films with loved ones. 

Lucas hopes to create a fun and productive environment with your child and looks forward helping them reach their full potential! 

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Kalli MacKenzie is a Behaviour Consultant who brings a genuine warmth and a strong passion for behavioural science to her work. She is currently completing her Master of Professional Education in Applied Behaviour Analysis at Western University, on her path toward becoming a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA).

Kalli values creating positive, supportive spaces where children feel safe, respected, and encouraged to be themselves. She is dedicated to teaching meaningful, functional skills while honouring each child’s individuality and autonomy. Building strong, trusting relationships with families is at the core of her practice, and she strives to make everyone she works with feel understood and supported.

In her spare time, Kalli enjoys spending quiet moments with her dogs, working on puzzles, and listening to vinyl records.

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Shahzad Moin has completed his BA in Psychology from theUniversity of Alberta and is working as a Behaviour Consultant with Northern Star. He is currently enrolled in his Master’s of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis at the Purdue Global University and is working towards becoming a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). He is a patient consultant who is passionate about helping children reach their full potential and thriveson building trusting relationships where engaging learning environments can be created with every milestone being celebrated.

His goal is to make learning both meaningful and enjoyable,helping ensure children gain skills and confidence that will last a lifetime.

In his free time, heplays basketball, volleyball, drives his car, solves puzzles, plays chess,videogames, reads, cycles, and writes

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Halle Tiessen is passionate about supporting children and families through compassionate, individualized care. She holds a Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Behaviour, Cognition, and Neuroscience and is currently enrolled in her Master's program with Arizona State Univeristy to become a Board Certified beahvior Analyst (BCBA). She has experience working closely with children and youth with autism, ADHD, ADD, trauma histories, and diverse support needs across residential and respite settings. Halle takes a trauma informed, child centred approach that prioritizes emotional regulation, safety, and strong therapeutic relationships, while supporting the development of meaningful communication, social, and daily living skills.

Her background as a dance instructor for children ages two to sixteen has strengthened her ability to build rapport, foster confidence, and create engaging, supportive environments. Halle believes every child deservesto feel valued, capable, and empowered to succeed, and is committed to supporting families with strategies that promote long term growth.

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Jenny Visconti is a registered Occupational Therapist (OT) in Edmonton, Alberta with six years of experience working in the field. Jenny completed her Master’s of Occupational Therapy at the University of Alberta, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine in 2017.

Jenny has diverse practice interests and works with both children and adults in the community, including pediatric early intervention, mental health, and physical rehabilitation involving a variety of health conditions/diagnoses. She also has experience working with individuals and families of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Jenny is an empathetic, collaborative, and strengths-based practitioner with a strong work ethic, who enjoys helping clients reach their goals. She is passionate about providing quality care and practices with a trauma-informed lens and culturally-sensitive approach. Her calm and compassionate demeanour has been acknowledged to help put clients with anxiety at ease and make people feel understood in their journey.

Alongside the team of Behaviour Consultants (BCBAs)/Interventionists, Jenny currently provides consultative OT support for children and their families with Northern Star Behaviour Services. She collaborates with families and the team to facilitate increased participation and independence with various self-help skills and adaptive functioning areas of need in a child’s development.

Outside of work, Jenny’s hobbies consist of traveling, dancing, listening to music, reading, watching international movies, learning languages, going on nature walks, spending time with family and friends, and much more.

Angana is a compassionate and experienced Occupational Therapist who has worked across three countries. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy in India and later moved to Los Angeles, where she earned her Master’s and Clinical Doctorate (OTD) from the University of Southern California.

For nearly a decade, Angana has worked in an outpatient pediatric setting in Los Angeles and Toronto, providing both individual and group therapy. She has supported children with a wide range of developmental needs, including autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, brain injuries, hemiplegia, and other complex conditions. Angana is certified in Sensory Integration through USC and has trained in feeding and oral motor therapy.

She brings a wealth of experience from both clinic and school settings and is skilled at tailoring her approach to each child’s unique strengths and challenges. She is passionate about using evidence-based, neurodiversity-affirming practices to help children thrive. Angana values collaboration and works closely with families, educators, physicians, and other professionals to ensure every child receives the comprehensive support they need.

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Zuzanna is passionate about helping children discover what they’re capable of. Every milestone — big or small — is worth celebrating, and she strives to create a space where kids feel safe, supported, and proud of their progress. Zuzanna's work is guided by compassion, creativity, and the belief that every child can shine in their own way. 

Zuzanna is currently finishing her practicum experience to become an Occupational Therapist and hopes to continue teaching and supporting children with autism as she grows!

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Melissa McAllister is a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) living in Sherwood Park, Alberta with almost 15 years of experience supporting children and their families. She completed her Master's of Speech and Hearing Sciences at Washington State University in 2009.  Melissa increased her knowledge of Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) supports for children in 2016 by becoming an Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) authorizer for speech generating communication devices.

Melissa uses her AAC training to support children and families in achieving meaningful communication goals. She practices by thinking about language development, participation in home and community, and operational skills required to be a successful AAC user. Melissa is dedicated to continual learning and self-improvement in order to provide the highest quality of service.

Outside of work you can find Melissa bike riding with her family, practicing yoga, or listening to audio books

Halah is a registered speech-language pathologist with a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Northern Colorado. She is licensed to practice, certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (CCC-SLP), and is also a Board Certified assistant Behavior Analyst(BCaBA®) and a Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA®).

Halah brings over 14 years of clinical experience working across a range of settings including clinics, hospitals, schools, and telehealth platforms in Saudi Arabia, the United States, and Canada. Her expertise spans assessment and intervention for speech, language, and communication challenges associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder and developmental disabilities. 

In addition to her clinical work, Halah has held leadership roles such as Head of the Speech-Language Pathology Department at a multidisciplinary center, and Project Manager developing telehealth-based screening and intervention tools. She has trained and supervised junior clinicians and led interdisciplinary teams including SLPs, OTs, ABA therapists, and medical professionals.

Halah holds certifications in Hanen Programs (It Takes Two to Talk, More Than Words). She has also extensive experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

Fluent in both Arabic and English, Halah is passionate about providing collaborative, family-centered care. She integrates principles of speech-language therapy and applied behavior analysis to create personalized and effective treatment plans that support her clients’ growth in communication, learning, and daily life.

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Jake is a Behavioral Interventionist with the Northern Star team. He is adamant on displaying focused and committed supports to children with developmental disabilities and has plans to continue his education towards becoming a BCBA.

Jake is keen and passionate about supporting the children he works with to create positive and lasting change that will help his clients carry through life. He loves working with kids and their families and focuses on being a positive pillar when times are tough.

In his free time, Jake enjoys basketball, video games, playing guitar, and spending time with friends and family.

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May has been working as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Edmonton for the past seven years! Throughout her professional career, May has gained experience working with epilepsy, schizophrenia, bipolar, DID, anxiety, depression, dementia/ Alzheimer’s and other physical and mental disabilities in the community. After working throughout Covid- 19 pandemic, May decided to return to school with hopes in entering a field centered around child focused rehabilitation. Currently, May is in her final semester of her Bachelors of Sociology (Family, Youth and Diversity) at MacEwan University. It was at Macewan University where May was introduced to ABA practices which further intrigued her to volunteer at her professors Behaviour clinic. 

In her free time, May is either at home, immersed in a book, cuddling her cat, or on a plane travelling to her next adventure! 

May values active listening, advocacy and team collaboration in order to provide compassionate care. May is very excited to work with you in unlocking your child’s full potential! 

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Kayla Johnson is currently studying Kinesiology at the University of Alberta with a major in Adapted Physical Activity.  She has been involved in judo for many years as an athlete, volunteer, and coach, and holds a black belt. Kayla loves working with kids of all ages and abilities, including those who are autistic and differently-abled. Through judo and movement-based activities, she helps children build confidence, focus, and discipline in a supportive and fun environment.

Fluent in both English and French, Kayla is known for her calm, caring nature and her ability to connect with kids in meaningful ways. She believes every child deserves to feel safe, understood, and empowered. She works hard to create inclusive spaces where all children can grow at their own pace. Her experience with diverse needs has taught her the importance of patience, creativity, and individualized care.

When she’s not working or studying, Kayla loves being active, whether she’s at the gym, out for a run, or practicing yoga. She also enjoys relaxing with her dog and spending time with the people she loves.

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Annie is a Bachelor of Arts student majoring in Psychology, with a strong interest in child and adolescent development and behavioural interventions. She has hands-on experience working with children in both community and clinical settings.

She enjoys creating fun, meaningful activities that match each child’s stage of development, promoting emotional growth, and fostering a safe and supportive environment where children can thrive.

Annie believes that all children can learn and should be empowered to participate in everyday routines and activities to the best of their abilities. She is committed to making a positive and meaningful impact in the lives of children and their families through evidence-based practices such as Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA).

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Ritika enjoys working with children and getting to know their individual personalities, strengths, and interests. She had the opportunity to volunteer at BASE clinic, where she gained hands-on experience applying ABA principles and supporting children as they developed everyday skills. Being part of those small but meaningful moments of progress has been very inspiring for her!

Ritika recently graduated from MacEwan University with a major in Psychology and a minor in Computer Science. Through completing her Beahvioural Intervention Certificate of Achievement (BICA), she further developed her understanding of behaviour intervention. She tries to bring patience, understanding, and a calm approach into her work, and she values creating a supportive space where children feel comfortable and encouraged. She looks forward to pursuing her BCBA career in the future!

Outside of work, Ritika enjoys baking and cooking, going for walks, and reading. She is excited to continue learning and supporting children in a positive and respectful way.

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Marko holds a Bachelor of Science in Honours Psychology from MacEwan University and has diverse experience working with children, including research, home and community care, public education, and intervention. He is excited about building towards his future career as a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA). Marko has extensive experience working with children aged 6-15 with diverse needs and learned firsthand what it means to care for a child in the home and community.

The connections he made with these children inspired him to continue acting as a pillar of positive change through intervention work. He is passionate about celebrating every child’s unique strengths and supporting them to achieve meaningful goals through connections that feel safe, fun, and supportive. Being there to celebrate the little victories and provide support through hard times is a privilege that he is grateful for every day.

In his free time, Marko loves to watch movies, train martial arts, ride motorcycles, play video games, and spend quality time with friends and family.

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Isabella Campbell is a Behaviour Interventionist with nearly a decade of experience working with children through teaching Taekwondo, as well as tutoring students of all ages throughout grade school. Through these experiences, Isabella has developed a passion for helping children learn, grow, and build confidence in their abilities.Teaching Taekwondo has taught her the importance of patience, encouragement,and recognizing that every child learns and progresses in their own way.

She carries these values into her work as a Behaviour Interventionist, where she strives to create an environment where everyone feels heard, supported, and celebrated. Isabella is currently enrolled in the PBA program at MacEwan University, with hopes of pursuing her Master’s degree and becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). She finds great fulfillment in celebrating both the big and small successes of those she works with and is inspired by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.

Outside of work, Isabella enjoys paddle boarding, hiking, crocheting, reading a good book, andspending time with her family.

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