About Us
Embracing your Uniqueness
HRM's Assessment Specialists
Erica Baker Psychological Services Ltd is a private practice in downtown Halifax. Our practice is one of few local businesses that specializes in assessment services for individuals with learning, behavioural and developmental differences. We pride ourselves on the comprehensiveness of our assessments. We collaborate with clients, families, educators, and other service providers, to recognize strengths and challenges and to develop a plan for moving forward.
Our Team
*Please note – Although we have a large team of psychologists, many of our team members do not work full time at EBPS and, as such, are not regularly in office.
Bonnie Waugh is a psychologist specializing in psychoeducational assessments and programming, for children (age three and up), teenagers, and adults with learning disabilities (LD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She also provides coaching services for individuals with ADHD. Bonnie graduated from Mount Saint Vincent University with a Masters of Arts in School Psychology. She has provided psychological services at a private non-profit day school for children with learning disabilities, in the public school system, and within a university setting. Bonnie has experience with specialized program plans for students based on their individual learning strengths and needs and with professional development activities for teachers working with LD students.
Dr. Joan Backman is a psychologist specializing in neuropsychological and psychoeducational assessment and consultation. Dr. Backman completed a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology and Neuropsychology at Carleton University, and a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at McGill University specializing in learning disabilities. For 27 years, Joan provided neuropsychological assessment, consultation and treatment services for children and teenagers with a wide range of disabilities at the IWK Health Centre. She also has served as Director of Learning Disabilities for the Nova Scotia Department of Education. Joan has a particular interest in assessment and consultation for children, teenagers and adults with acquired brain injuries, physical and developmental disabilities, attention-deficit /hyperactivity disorder and learning disabilities. Her goal is to provide assessment recommendations which are based on a thorough understanding of the individual’s cognitive and behavioural profile, and developed collaboratively with individuals, families, schools and other care team members in the community to be most effective and helpful. Dr. Backman is not currently accepting new referrals. ion Content
Dr. April Sullivan [not presently accepting new clients] is a psychologist specializing in assessment and treatment of mental health and neurodevelopmental disorders. In her role at Erica Baker Psychological Services, she provides consultation and assessment services for those suspected of having an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD and Tourette Syndrome. April has a particular interest in treatment of mental health difficulties in individuals with ASD. She has a Ph.D. in Clinical-Developmental Psychology from York University. Her clinical training was completed the IWK Health Centre.
Neera Datta [not presently accepting new clients] is a psychologist specializing in psychoeducational and ADHD assessments for adults. Neera graduated with a M.Ed. degree from Mount Saint Vincent University, and with a M.Sc. degree with specialization in the area of School Psychology from the University of Calgary. She has experience working within a hospital environment, the public school system, a private school for students with learning disabilities (LD), and private practice. Neera currently works within a university setting where she provides screening assessments, learning strategies and advocacy services to students with LD and ADHD.
Melissa Jones (née Gendron) [presently on maternity leave and not accepting new clients] is a registered psychologist who conducts comprehensive psychoeducational and diagnostic assessments to explore learning and behaviour for individuals across the lifespan, from preschool to adulthood. Areas of specialty include attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and learning disabilities (LD), as well as other neurodevelopmental disorders such as intellectual disability (ID) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Additionally, she conducts comprehensive diagnostic mental health assessments to evaluate an individual’s current mental health functioning and to provide recommendations for potential supports and treatment services. Melissa obtained her M.Sc. in Clinical Psychology at Acadia University, and completed her clinical training at the IWK Health Center. As well, she has previously worked at Dalhousie University within a research team where she conducted and published research specializing in ADHD. She has been contracted to conduct psychoeducational and diagnostic mental health assessments for adults and children through various multidisciplinary providers including within the hospital environment, public school systems, and community services. With a background firmly rooted in research, Melissa works collaboratively with families, teachers, social workers, school administrators, physicians, and community organizations. She is committed to ensuring clear communication of assessment outcomes to individuals, parents, and professionals in order to support each individual’s future success.
[not presently accepting new clients] specializes in assessments for complex learning disorders and ADHD in children and young adults. Sara completed her PhD in Clinical Psychology at Dalhousie University, a predoctoral residency in child rehabilitation psychology at Bloorview Kids Rehab (now Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital) in Toronto, and a postdoctoral fellowship in the Department of Paediatrics at the IWK Health Centre. Sara has extensive clinical experience working in hospital and community settings and is currently Associate Professor and co-coordinator of the Master of Arts Program in School Psychology at Mount Saint Vincent University. Her research focuses on social and school functioning in children with a variety of challenges including ADHD, disruptive behaviour disorders, and chronic health conditions.
Rebecca is a registered psychologist specializing in the comprehensive psychoeducational assessment of children, adolescents, and young adults with learning or behavioural concerns. Rebecca’s prior experience practicing in the public school system enables her to develop practical recommendations that can be implemented effectively by teachers and school administrators. She also provides psycho-vocational assessment services to help individuals identify appropriate occupational options that are consistent with their abilities, aptitudes, interests, and skills. Rebecca obtained her Masters of Arts degree in School Psychology at Mount Saint Vincent University in 2011.
Kristen Coveyduc is a registered psychologist who conducts psycho-educational assessments for children, adolescents, and young adults that have learning difficulties, behavioural concerns, or both. Areas of particular interest include learning disabilities (LD), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), intellectual disabilities (ID), and anxiety. Kristen obtained her Master of Arts in School Psychology at Mount Saint Vincent University. Kristen is a strong advocate for students and their learning needs. Kristen also works as a school psychologist in the public system, which has allowed her opportunities to collaborate with school teams including teachers, administrators, speech-langauge pathologists, social workers, and physicians, as well as with families and community programs. She draws from this experience to ensure the recommendations she provides her clients meet both academic and personal goals.
Jessica Waldon [not presently accepting new clients] is a registered psychologist who conducts comprehensive psychoeducational assessments to explore learning, attention, and behaviour in children and adolescents. Areas of interest include assessment of learning disabilities (LD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as other neurodevelopmental disorders such as Intellectual Disability (ID). Jessica obtained her Masters of Arts in School Psychology at Mount Saint Vincent University. Through her experience within the public school system, Jessica works collaboratively with families, school administrators, teachers, social workers, physicians, and community organizations. This has provided Jessica with the experience and skill to communicate assessment outcomes effectively to families and school professionals, and to provide practical, evidenced-based recommendations tailored to support each individual’s future success.
Dr. Ainslie McDougall [presently on maternity leave] is a registered psychologist specializing in psycho-educational assessments for specific learning disabilities (LD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other related mental health disorders. Dr. McDougall conducts assessment for students in either English or French Immersion streams as well as detailed assessments of individuals across the lifespan. She completed a PhD in Clinical Psychology (University of New Brunswick, 2014) and a Master of Science in Forensic Psychology (University of Surrey, 2008). In addition to her work with Erica Baker Psychological Services Limited, Dr. McDougall is employed with the IWK Health Centre Mental Health and Addictions program specializing in completing assessments with youth who are involved with the criminal justice system. She also has experience in providing evidence-based interventions for children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety and/or mood disorders.
Dr. Halina Bruce [presently on maternity leave and not accepting new clients] is a registered psychologist specializing in neuropsychological assessment with adults and older adults. She conducts medical-legal assessments, often collaborating with other health professionals. Halina also provides coaching for individuals with traumatic brain injuries. She holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Concordia University where her research focused on healthy aging. Her clinical training was completed in Ottawa and Montreal, followed by a pre-doctoral residency in Halifax. Her training has included working with a variety of populations including traumatic brain injury, ADHD, neurodegenerative disorders, epilepsy and chronic pain.
Dr. Fiona Davidson is a registered psychologist and specializes in comprehensive psychoeducational assessments of children and youth (age 2-18), with particular interests in assessment and programming for children and youth with learning disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and autism spectrum disorder. Dr. Davidson holds a Ph.D in Clinical Psychology from Dalhousie University where her research focused on pediatric sleep deprivation and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Her clinical training was primarily completed at the IWK Health Centre, however she also completed training at the Colchester East Hants ADHD Clinic. Prior to completing her Ph.D, Dr. Davidson completed her Master of Arts in School Psychology at Mount Saint Vincent University. Dr. Davidson works collaboratively with families, health professionals, and educators for the comprehensive assessment of individuals and for the development of home and school based programs.
Dr. Jackie Normand [presently on maternity leave and not accepting new clients] is a registered psychologist specializing in comprehensive psychoeducational and diagnostic assessments exploring learning and developmental concerns, including autism spectrum disorder. Dr. Normand primarily works with children and youth for such assessments. Dr. Normand completed her PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of New Brunswick. She has trained and worked in a variety of settings, including hospitals and community mental health agencies. In addition to her work with Erica Baker Psychological Services, Dr. Normand is employed with the IWK Community Mental Health and Addictions Outpatient Program where she works with children, youth, and families experiencing a variety of mental health-related challenges.
Dr. Julie Harper is a registered psychologist specializing in assessment and treatment of mental health and neurodevelopmental disorders. In her role at Erica Baker Psychological Services, she provides assessment services for those suspected of having an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She completed a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology (Lakehead University, 2013), a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (Lakehead University, 2009), and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Neuroscience (University of Toronto, 2004). In addition to her work with Erica Baker Psychological Services Limited, Dr. Harper is employed at the IWK Health Centre Mental Health and Addictions program, specializing in completing assessments and providing treatment with youth who are involved with the criminal justice system. Dr. Harper also has experience providing evidence-based interventions for children, adolescents, and adults dealing with difficulties such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and disruptive behaviours (e.g., ODD, anger, conduct issues, etc.).
Jolène Doucet is a bilingual (English/French) Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D) candidate with the Université de Moncton who is currently completing a pre-doctoral residency at the practice under the supervision of Dr. Lindsay Bates. As part of her clinical training, Jolène conducts psychoeducational assessments in French and in English to explore learning, attention and developmental concerns in children and youth. Throughout her studies, Jolène has offered assessment and treatment services across a range of settings including schools, community mental health agencies, and private practice. Adopting a scientist-practitioner approach to her clinical practice, Jolène is committed to working collaboratively with families and aims to provide assessment recommendations that reflect a thorough understanding of the individual’s unique profile and needs.
Sarah Brine is a psychologist on the candidate register who conducts psychoeducational assessments for children, adolescents, and young adults that have learning, attention, and/or behavior concerns. She completed her Masters of Arts in School Psychology (M.A.S.P) degree at Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Prior to joining Erica Baker Psychological Services Ltd., Sarah worked as a psychologist in the public school system and in a private practice in Ottawa, Ontario. Through this work she has learned the importance of providing trauma-informed care, collaborating with other professionals (e.g., teachers, school teams, speech-language pathologists, social workers, and physicians), as well as working with families and community programs to ensure that clients receive the best care possible. Sarah completes assessments for students in English and French Immersion programs. She is trained in Violent Threat Risk Assessment (VTRA) – Level 1, Collaborative Problem-Solving (CPS) – Level 1, and in ASIST: Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training – Level 1.
Ashton Parker is a registered psychologist who conducts comprehensive psychoeducational and diagnostic assessments to explore learning, behavioral, and developmental concerns. Areas of interest include assessment of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as learning disabilities, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and intellectual disabilities. Ashton also has specialized training and a keen interest in the assessment of autism spectrum disorder.
Ashton received her Master of Arts in School Psychology at Mount Saint Vincent University. She has worked in various settings, including public schools, daycare/preschools, and private practice. Her top priority is to develop a genuine and caring connection and aims to help her clients and their families better understand their individual strengths and areas of need. Ashton is passionate about working collaboratively with families, health professionals, and educators. She is committed to providing high-quality assessments that clearly communicate outcomes.
Hanna Jones, MADS, BCBA, has been in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for 8 years. She has worked with clients with ASD in various settings including in home, in the community and in centre. Hanna has completed a Post Graduate Degree in Autism and Behavioral Science through George Brown College as well as a Masters of Applied Disability Studies program at Brock University. She began her journey working with individuals with various disabilities through her time completing her Bachelor of Kinesiology, with a focus on adapted physical education at St. Francis Xavier University. Hanna is passionate about meeting clients where they are at and ensuring they are successful in meeting socially significant goals. Additionally, she enjoys working collaboratively with other professionals to provide well rounded care that is consistent across specialists and service types.
Privacy & Confidentiality
Psychologists are bound by a strict provincial and national Code of Ethics to ensure that clients’ confidentiality and privacy are protected. The Nova Scotia Personal Health Information Act also requires that your personal health information is protected by our psychologists and administrative staff. As we regularly partner with local universities in the training of Clinical and School Psychology graduate students, with your permission, graduate students who are training to become psychologists may be involved in assessments. They are also required to comply with our confidentiality and privacy policies.
Confidentiality
We use email to communicate information that is not highly confidential, such as appointment times. Please be aware that email is not a secure form of communication so we cannot guarantee that information you disclose in an email will not be intercepted by a third party.
Privacy
The Personal Health Information Act (PHIA) recognizes both the right of individuals to protect their personal health information and the need for psychologists (or other health “custodians”) to manage clients’ personal health information to provide, support and manage their health care and wellness. The highlights of our policies under PHIA include:
- We comply with PHIA’s requirements for the appropriate collection, use, disclosure, retention and destruction of your personal health information.
- You may request access to your personal health information or request that your personal health information be corrected.
- If you feel that your information has been accessed inappropriately, the law allows you to make a complaint to the custodian of your information. Dr. Erica Baker is the PHIA Contact Person at our practice. Dr. Baker can be reached at 902.445.3851.
- There are safeguards in place to protect information that is kept in electronic information systems as well as paper records.
- More information about your rights and our responsibilities under PHIA is available at www.novascotia.ca/DHW/PHIA or by calling 902.424.5419 or toll free at 855.640.4765.
Consent
We will review an Authorization for Assessment form at the beginning of the first session. This form outlines the services that have been agreed upon by the client and the psychologist.