About the Emery Psychology Team
Our team works from a pro-neurodiversity approach that highlights biological, environmental, and societal factors as contributors to well-being.
We take a therapeutic approach to assessment and our interventions are research-informed and relationship-driven.
Get to know us
Dr. A. Ann Emery
Dr. Ann Emery is a psychologist and member of the Ordre des Psychologues du Quebec who has clinical and assessment experience working with children, adolescents, and families in private practice, school, and hospital settings. She is passionate about working alongside her clients and helping them to advocate for their needs.
Dr. Ann has completed clinical training with the McGill Psychoeducational and Counselling Clinic, the English Montreal School Board, and the Department of Child Psychiatry at the Jewish General Hospital. Alongside her private work, Dr. Ann has worked with children and families at the MAB-Mackay Rehabilitation Centre in Montreal. She has been trained in autism evaluation by Dr. Luyster, who helped to develop the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2), and by Dr. Monteiro, who developed the sensory and strengths-based Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum (MIGDAS-2). She is a member of the Canadian ADHD Research Alliance and is continuously pursuing professional development in neuroaffirming approaches.
Dr. Ann has guest lectured at McGill University and she has presented her research on child and adolescent mental health and development at international conferences. Her doctoral research was funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) and her work has been published in peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Ann completed her Ph.D. in School and Applied Child Psychology from McGill University.
Dr. Katie Saunders
Dr. Katie Saunders is a licensed psychologist (OPQ) with over 15 years of experience supporting students of all ages. Originally from New Brunswick, Dr. Katie obtained her PhD in School/Applied Child Psychology from McGill University where her research was funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC).
Specializing in comprehensive psycho-educational evaluations, Dr. Katie has received training or worked in school, hospital, not-for-profit and private clinic settings. Using a collaborative approach, evaluations with Dr. Katie aim to help students and their parents develop a better understanding of their learning needs. Often describing herself to children as a “learning detective,” Dr. Katie takes pride in highlighting strengths, as well as challenges and in providing practical recommendations tailored to the unique needs of each client. She is particularly experienced in evaluating learning disabilities, ADHD, giftedness and other issues related to school performance and adjustment.
Dr. Sandra Schneider
Dr. Sandra Schneider completed her Ph.D. in Psychology in Bern, Switzerland.
She is currently completing her complementary training under the supervision of Dr. Ann to obtain OPQ equivalency.
Dr. Sandra is well-trained in conducting psychoeducational assessments that include cognitive, academic, behavioural, socio-emotional, and executive functioning. She has also been trained in autism evaluations, using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) and the sensory and strengths-based Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum (MIGDAS-2).
Her therapeutic approach integrates several perspectives, including cognitive-behavioural, dialectical behaviour, and acceptance and commitment therapy. She works individually with children, adolescents, and parents. She offers a supportive, nonjudgmental, solution-oriented approach to finding and implementing individualized solutions. Her professional philosophy emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach, cultural sensitivity, compassion, diversity, and creativity.
Dr. Lisa Serravalle
Dr. Lisa Serravalle, PhD, earned her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Concordia University, where she conducted research focusing on the role of the family environment in preventing psychopathology in children born to parents with mood disorders. She completed her clinical residency at the Montréal Children’s Hospital, gaining invaluable experience working with children, adolescents, and families across a range of medical and mental health settings—both inpatient and outpatient.
Dr. Lisa is currently working towards obtaining a neuropsychology attestation and has thus accumulated extensive experience in conducting assessments. The presenting problems range from intellectual disability, learning challenges, attention deficits, autism, amongst others. In terms of therapy, she has developed expertise in treating a wide range of psychological and behavioural challenges, including anxiety, depression, emotion dysregulation, self-harm, and suicidality. Her therapeutic approach integrates cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). For younger children, she uses play-focused CBT or play therapy as an age-appropriate way to access their inner world.
Committed to delivering inclusive and culturally sensitive care, Dr. Lisa has actively collaborated with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. She specializes in working with neurodiverse individuals, acting as an advocate for their unique needs. She has also worked with Indigenous communities in Northern Québec, further exemplifying her dedication to equitable healthcare.
Mme Mélanie Lemay
Mélanie Lemay est une art-thérapeute passionnée qui croit profondément au pouvoir transformateur de la créativité. À travers une approche alliant expression artistique et accompagnement thérapeutique, elle aide ses client·e·s à surmonter des défis personnels, à explorer leurs émotions et à développer une meilleure connaissance d’eux-mêmes.
L’art-thérapie est une méthode innovante qui permet d’accéder à des aspects de soi souvent difficiles à exprimer avec des mots. En combinant les bienfaits de la thérapie et du processus créatif, Mélanie offre un espace sécuritaire où chacun·e peut canaliser ses émotions, reconstruire son estime de soi et amorcer un processus de guérison en profondeur.
Forte d’une expertise en accompagnement des traumatismes, des troubles anxieux, dépressifs et alimentaires, elle accueille une clientèle variée : enfants, adolescents, jeunes adultes, adultes et aînés. Elle travaille également avec les couples et les familles, après une évaluation préalable. Son approche repose sur la conviction que l’art est un langage universel capable de révéler des ressources insoupçonnées en chacun·e de nous. À travers la peinture, le dessin, le collage et d’autres formes d’expression artistique, elle accompagne ses client·e·s vers un mieux-être durable, en respectant leur rythme et leurs besoins uniques.
Chez Emery Psychology, Mélanie est soutenue par notre équipe de psychologues, travaillant sous leur direction experte pour fournir les meilleurs soins possibles. Elle est membre de l'Association des arts-thérapeutes du Québec (AATQ) et du Regroupement des intervenants et thérapeutes en médecine alternative et complémentaire (RITMA). En plus de son travail clinique, Mélanie poursuit son doctorat en sociologie à l'Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM).
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Mélanie Lemay is a dedicated art therapist who deeply believes in the transformative power of creativity. Through an approach that combines artistic expression with therapeutic support, she helps her clients overcome personal challenges, explore their emotions, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
Art therapy is an innovative method that allows individuals to access aspects of themselves that are often difficult to express with words. By merging the benefits of therapy with the creative process, Mélanie provides a safe space where clients can channel their emotions, rebuild self-esteem, and embark on a profound healing journey.
With expertise in trauma support, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, she works with a diverse clientele: children, teenagers, young adults, adults, and seniors. She also offers support for couples and families upon prior assessment. Her approach is rooted in the belief that art is a universal language capable of revealing untapped inner resources. Through painting, drawing, collage, and other forms of artistic expression, she guides her clients toward lasting well-being, always respecting their unique needs and personal pace.
At Emery Psychology, Mélanie is supported by our team of psychologists, working under their expert guidance to provide the best care possible. She is a member of the Québec Art Therapy Association (AATQ) and the Interveners and Therapists Group in Alternative and Complementary Medicine (RITMA). Aside from her clinical work, Mélanie is pursuing her doctorate in sociology at l’Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM).
Ms. Courtney Prieur
Courtney brings 20 years of experience working with children and teens in the independent school community in Montreal to our psychology clinic. Her passion and energy for creating innovative programs and leading strategic initiatives at the leadership level make her an invaluable addition to our dynamic and growing team. With a Master's degree in Educational Leadership, extensive background in schools, non-profit organizations, and as a dedicated community volunteer, Courtney offers a fresh perspective on the opportunities and needs of our clients.
Courtney excels in designing engaging and inclusive experiences that promote learning through hands-on activities for kids and adults alike. She is excited to incorporate her expertise into future group work at the clinic, enhancing the therapeutic experiences offered at Emery Psychology.
In her role, Courtney assists with psychological assessments and builds bridges between the world of mental health and the realities faced in educational environments. She is a firm believer in a relational, strengths-based approach, dedicated to bringing out the best in everyone. Her commitment to fostering positive relationships and her innovative mindset are key to helping our clients thrive.
Ms. Kimberley Arsenault
Kimberley is our clinic coordinator. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Concordia University. She has worked in a lab at Concordia University conducting research focused on peer socialization among children. She also works as a clinical psychology assistant, helping with the administration and reporting of psychoeducational assessments. She works mainly with children, adolescents and their families.
Kimberley has an interest in child psychology and occupational therapy and she hopes to pursue graduate studies in Occupational Therapy in the near future.
Ms. Sema Abu Shamleh
Sema Abu Shamleh is a fourth-year psychology student and she joins the team as an integration aide. Sema brings valuable experience from her roles as a daycare monitor, behaviour interventionist, and animator in children's workshops. She specializes in creating fun, engaging environments where kids can learn, play, and feel safe.
She enjoys activities like arts and crafts, storytelling, and games, aiming to help children grow emotionally and socially. Sema believes in recognizing each child's unique voice and needs, dedicating herself to providing the support and encouragement they deserve. Fluent in both English and Arabic, she effectively communicates with kids from diverse backgrounds.
Sema finds working with children, especially those requiring extra guidance and support, incredibly rewarding. She is excited to bring her friendly and warm approach to help children thrive and succeed in daycare or school environments.
