Respite and Support Connection

A free Family driven Connection service For Families to connect with Respite and community Support workers- Kootenays Based.

Disclaimer: Diverse Family Roots Society is the facilitator for connection and therefore has no responsibility regarding wages, length of support between families and respite / community support workers. Families and Support People are responsible for ensuring clear, vulnerable-persons criminal record checks are in place..

Providing Respite Support:

Larena

Trail/Rossland/Fruitvale

I am an occupational therapist student seeking to provide “fun” respite. I have worked in the field for 7 years, I have been a support work, coached special Olympic swimming, respite provider, EA and DeafBlind intervenor. I have two siblings with Down syndrome as well as I grew up with my mom working in a group home. I have my bachelors degree in social work, recently I have worked as a guardianship social worker.

I understand non-verbal body language very well, I have experience giving medication, seizure management, as well as medical procedure, feeding tubes, catheters, although I will need a refresher how to work with medical equipment.
I am looking to provide respite to go and do fun things in the community with individuals, respite for mom and dad can go on a date night or a couple hours relief. I am easy going, creative and have my own transportation.

The primary diagnosis I have worked with are Down syndrome, tubular sclerosis, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, brain injury, DeafBlind and other neurological conditions. If your child, youth or young adult has one of these diagnosis and you feel I would be a good fit please reach out.
I will be in the area July and August.
Wage depends on how many kids, ages and needs.

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Larena

Community Contact

Youth Behavioural Adaptation Services Carolynn Wood

West Kootenays

Youth Behavioural Adaptation Services YBAS Life and Social Skills Group (LSSG) is a program designed to be administered to youth who need support and guidance developing life and social skills.  YBAS is committed to a youth and family oriented program that identifies the youth’s individual strengths and builds on their needs as a basis for enhancing life skills and social competencies in their communities. In addition to youth supports, it is the goal of YBAS to provide parent(s)/guardian(s) education and advocacy training. I have been working with neurodiverse individuals for the last 20 years (ages 1 to 60) in the Kootenays, Okanagan and US. The YBAS area covers Nelson, Trail, Castlegar, Kaslo, Salmo, Slocan Valley, and starting this Spring/Summer Nakusp. YBAS offers a variety of unique supports for  families and individuals with difference in rural area. Services range from LSSG groups, training, respite, behavioural intervention (contemporary), community supports, transitioning to school or adulthood, homeschooling, tutoring, case management, summer supports, executive functioning, anxiety supports, job skills, and family education/advocacy.

Please email to set up a free meet and greet online. Resume criminal record check and references available upon request.

YBAS.ca
Youth Behavioural Adaptation Services YBAS
Carolynn Wood
[email protected]
Behavioural Interventionist
Early Childhood Care and Education ECCE
Child and Youth Care CYC
Social Service Worker SSW

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Youth Behavioural Adaptation Services Carolynn Wood

Community Contact

Sara Stevenson

Grand Forks

I am a long time resident of Grand Forks with a blended family of 7. I have my E.C.E licence, Child Safe first aid, and I recently graduated with my Educational Assistant/Behavioural Interventionist certification. I was the supervisor/lead teacher of a 3 to 5 year old program for over 20 years, and I am currently the manager of a childcare centre in Christina Lake. I have also worked as a behaviour interventionist and support worker for children over my 25 year career. I Iook forward to helping families in respite care in the Christina Lake/ Boundary region.

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Sara Stevenson

Community Contact

Trisha

Greenwood

As a dedicated Education Assistant with a Bachelor of Education degree, majoring in Physical Education and minoring in Mathematics, alongside a Kinesiology degree from the University of Winnipeg, I have been providing respite care since 2017 for children with various conditions, including cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism, multiple sclerosis, and seizure disorders. My extensive experience includes running a special education summer camp and an after-school program, where I have fostered an environment of inclusiveness and acceptance. I firmly believe that every individual has the potential to thrive through appropriate adaptations, and I am committed to helping everyone experience life to its fullest. If you require assistance for yourself or your family, please do not hesitate to reach out.

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Trisha

Community Contact

Fran deBruyn

Nelson and Area

My name is Fran deBruyn and I am interested in doing respite care for families in or near Nelson. My passion for working with children and families was nurtured through growing up in a big tight-knit family and several years of education. I have a Child and Youth Care Counsellor Diploma, Child Studies degree, and completed the art therapy program at the Kutenai Art Therapy Institute in Nelson.

My interests outside of studying include being creative (painting, drawing, collaging), being active (I love to go to the recreation centre gym, pool, and ice rink), playing card or board games, and spending time outdoors.

I have fifteen years of experience working with children of all ages and their families. I am currently the program manager of a before and after school care program located out of South Nelson Elementary School. I have done respite care in the past and enjoyed the special bonds created with the child and their family. I find respite care to be unique in its ability to foster strong, genuine relationships through play, the sharing of experiences and interests, and being welcomed into a family’s home. I love this work because it is such a mutual learning experience between myself and the child as we develop safety, stretch each other’s world views, and introduce each other to new activities and passions.
It is an honour to be apart of a child’s life in this way and I feel blessed to have the opportunity to meet new children and families.

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Fran deBruyn

Community Contact

Providing Community Support:

Jodi Ihas

Virtual Practice, but lives in Fruitvale

Hi, I’m Jodi, a Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying) with a Master’s in Counselling Psychology, and I work with families navigating the joys and complexities of raising children and young adults with diverse needs. As a parent, foster parent, and former social worker, I bring both professional experience and lived understanding to the work I do.

In my practice, I support the whole family — and that includes you, the parent. I know how important it is to have space for your own well-being while caring for others. Together, we can create a space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered on this meaningful (and sometimes overwhelming) journey.

With a background in psychology, social work (RSW), early childhood education, and yoga teacher training, I bring a holistic, trauma-informed lens to my work. Whether you’re looking for support around parenting, stress, burnout, or your child’s unique challenges, I’m here to walk alongside you.

To learn more or book a free 15-minute consultation, visit jodiihascounselling.com. I’d be honoured to support you and your family.

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Jodi Ihas

Community Contact

Sheri Lee Wellness – Sheri Sadowick

West Kootenays

I am a trauma-informed counsellor and Growth Coach dedicated to supporting families and women in the West Kootenays through my practice, Sheri Lee Wellness.

With over 20 years as an Education Assistant in School Districts 8 and 20, I have championed inclusive education, supporting kiddos with day-to-day support, individualized strategies and IEPs. As a Behaviour Interventionist, I collaborated with families to create positive behaviour plans, fostering resilience and connection. In earlier years, I worked with Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy for 7 years to strengthen community access to family-focused resources, which reflects my passion for inclusion. My recent achievement of my Applied Psychology and Counselling Diploma further enhances my desire to shift into online Parent Support Counselling, empowering parents and caregivers of neurodiverse children with practical tools and support for themselves….because they deserve it!

As a former MS Society board member and Hospice Volunteer, I also bring deep community roots to the Diverse Family Roots Society.

Let’s connect! Email me at [email protected]

Or book a free 15-minute Discovery Call via my website sherileewellness.com where you can also check out my other offerings and my Well-being Nest blog.

Healing with Intention. Growing with Purpose. 

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Sheri Lee Wellness – Sheri Sadowick

Community Contact

Talking Helps Heal Counselling Clinic

Cranbrook and Kimberley, BC (available across BC)

At Talking Helps Heal, we provide a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore difficult emotions and experiences. Our experienced and compassionate counsellors work with you to identify the root causes of your problems, to help you discover new ways of navigating life’s challenges. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or unsure even what you “need” from counselling yet, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Our registered, master’s-level therapists (RCCs & CCCs) provide a safe, supportive space for all. We also offer affordable sessions with intern counsellors completing their practicum.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 778-687-4122

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Talking Helps Heal Counselling Clinic

Community Contact

Compass to Care Consulting

Cranbrook (virtually across BC)

I am a Ross Greene Certified Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) Provider, educator, consultant, and advocate committed to neuroaffirming, neuroscience-informed, and inclusive practices. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Education and Neuroscience, I specialize in CPS, IEPs, and inclusion advocacy for neurodivergent children. My work is grounded in the ethics of care, recognizing that every child’s experiences, challenges, and strengths are deeply interconnected with their environment, relationships, and self-perception. Rather than focusing on behavior as something to control, I guide parents in understanding the “why” behind behaviors, helping them shift from a compliance-based mindset to one that values connection and autonomy.

Ultimately, I empower parents to see their child through a different lens. I believe in advocating effectively, collaborating with educators, and creating supportive environments that foster growth, confidence, and well-being. By centering care, dignity, and inclusivity in everything I do, I support families in ensuring every child is seen, heard, and empowered.

compasstocareconsulting.com

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Compass to Care Consulting

Community Contact

Carolynn Wood

West Kootenays

Youth Behavioural Adaptation Services YBAS Life and Social Skills Group (LSSG) is a program designed to be administered to youth who need support and guidance developing life and social skills. YBAS is committed to a youth and family oriented program that identifies the youth’s individual strengths and builds on their needs as a basis for enhancing life skills and social competencies in their communities. In addition to youth supports, it is the goal of YBAS to provide parent(s)/guardian(s) education and advocacy training. I have been working with neurodiverse individuals for the last 20 years (ages 1 to 60) in the Kootenays, Okanagan and US. The YBAS area covers Nelson, Trail, Castlegar, Kaslo, Salmo, Slocan Valley, and starting this Spring/Summer Nakusp. YBAS offers a variety of unique supports for families and individuals with difference in rural area. Services range from LSSG groups, training, respite, behavioural intervention (contemporary), community supports, transitioning to school or adulthood, homeschooling, tutoring, case management, summer supports, executive functioning, anxiety supports, job skills, and family education/advocacy.

Please email to set up a free meet and greet online. Resume criminal record check and reference available upon request.

YBAS.ca
Youth Behavioural Adaptation Services YBAS
Carolynn Wood
[email protected]
Behavioural Interventionist
Early Childhood Care and Education ECCE
Child and Youth Care CYC
Social Service Worker SSW

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Carolynn Wood

Community Contact

Ariya Wutke

Castlegar, Nelson, Trail

I am a trained Behavioural Interventionist. I form a care plan with parents and provide care that is catered to their child. Whatever that may look like whether it be educational, occupational, physical etc. I want the best for the child and for them to be successful and happy in what we are doing. Reach out to me if you want more information or are looking for this kind of service.

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Ariya Wutke

Community Contact

Lawna Bourassa

Trail

Clinical Herbalist (CL.H) and Personal Support Aide (PSA) I offer Quantum Therapy Bio Resonance Readings.

I have 25 years as a PSA working with Neurodivergent of all ages and geriatrics with dementia.

My passion is working as an Herbalist and using my knowledge to help others looking for alternative Natural Medicines (Phytotherapy), Nutrition, TCM Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Traditional Ayurvedic Medicine.

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Lawna Bourassa

Community Contact

Gael Milligan

Castlegar

Life Skills. Support, Connection.

Some parents struggle with understanding the reports, assessments, and communication with school staff and professionals. It can be a lot to process. We can sit together to clarify the key points and see how those can become part of their working understanding, by seeing what fits and what can be set aside for now. I’ll attend IEP meetings to provide any additional support they may need. Those meetings can be overwhelming.

When I meet with families in their homes, I offer support for whatever they’re dealing with now and into the near future. This includes information and support to guide them in creating goals and plans for their child who may be struggling with emotions, self-regulation, and life skills. Then, as we talk further, I hope to offer new ways of addressing these concerns and issues with them and help them plan their next steps.

I will work with their child, sometimes using scripts to say and picture communication symbols to make and plan schedules, and always listening for their child’s nuances, understanding, and communication to fine-tune our time together. It’s so important to stay attuned and respectful, watching and learning with each meeting so that the times together reflect a very kind and thoughtful time together.

Whatever is needed, I’m there to listen and support them through this time. I have many resources to share with families that cover all aspects of self-care, life skills, and communication skills.

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Gael Milligan

Community Contact

Families Looking For Support

Audray Wright

New Denver

Hi there,

We are looking for connection with families or individuals who have experienced autistic burnout and/or pathological demand avoidance. Our six years old have been in burnout since December and our four years old is on the verge.  We would love to hear other people stories and share ours.

Thank you.

The Wrights

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Audray Wright

Community Contact

Corey and Talon Bellehumeur

Nelson, BC

Hello, my name is Corey and I have a wonderful son, Talon. He is 6 and has ASD.

He is very sweet and emotionally well regulated. Talon does have big feelings when things don’t go his way but he processes and moves on very quickly.  He has a language development delay but understands lots and takes direction well.  His thing is extra stimulation.  He does not get overwhelmed.  He is very curious and can take off if something catches his interest. A bit of a flight risk but he has improved as he ages.

He is not toilet trained so will require someone to change him. He’s very cooperative.  He also wears leg braces for his ankles and feet because he is a toe walker.  They help him walk correctly and have made sure his muscles and bones develop correctly.  He has been wearing them for years and his development has progressed well.

Local after school care and summer camp programs are reluctant to admit him since funding has been cut for extra support workers.  I have made a plan with one of these care providers, for them to get to know Talon and for Talon to know them.  I will be attending summer camp on Tuesdays and we are looking for a support worker for Mondays.

So only one day a week, Monday for a support worker, is what we can afford with the limited $6000 a year autism funding available to us.  The rest will be used in aftercare programs next year if the providers require it.  I hope Talon can grow to be accepted as a typical child as he develops and comes to require a regular amount of supervision.  I know he is capable and will learn what he needs to in order to be part of a group. It just may take a little more time, effort, support and understanding.

I cannot afford to take the time off of work for the rest of my son’s life or pay for extra care. ($20 – $23 an hour)

I’m not sure how this support website works but I hope to hear back from someone.

Corey Bellehumeur

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Corey and Talon Bellehumeur

Community Contact

George Manak

Grand forks

  1. We moved to Grand forks this year
  2. we have two boys with autism Johnny 18yrs Michael 12 years old
  3. looking for Respite support

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

George Manak

Community Contact

Kathleen

Nelson

Family with two boys on the spectrum looking for appropriate respite care in Nelson . We love the outdoors, being anctive, art, building/inventing, and limit screen time (within reason).

Mom could benefit from regular yet occasional overnight care as well as other respite times where needed.

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Kathleen

Community Contact

Lana Klein

Playmor Junction

We are looking for:

In home Tutor (for after school 1 day per week, must be 19+ to use funding, focusing mostly on writing, grammar, some math, etc)

and/or an OT.

For: 12 year old boy, attending school grade 7, autistic/ADHD. Getting lots of support at home, just falling in the cracks at school a bit cause he’s quiet. I am hoping, if it’s a good fit, to have someone long term that can keep up with highschool work as it becomes harder.

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Lana Klein

Community Contact

Cheryl and Ella Bloy

Ross Spur BC

Ella is my adopted great grandaughter, she is now 17 and struggling bravely to complete her high school grades. Ella is assessed ADHD,ODD, with a just below average IQ. She is beautiful, kind and witty, with an amazing talent to learn from hands on experiences, which are not readily available through the mandatory academic courses.Looking toward a career in law enforcement she would benefit meeting others with social adversity in their lives and learning their coping strategies.

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Cheryl and Ella Bloy

Community Contact

Ben Postmus

Fruitvale

Looking for respite provider. In home / or in your’s . 36 yr old woman with autism, epilepsy, ADHD, OCD and other wonderful componenets. Must have clear CRC. Wage will be discussed.

To get in touch, use this form to send a message to

Ben Postmus

Community Contact