Therapy Team

Stephanie Deaken, BA, MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker

Executive Director

Stephanie Deaken is a registered social worker with many years of experience working with children and youth and their families. As a registered social worker, Stephanie is a member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers as well as the Ontario Association of Social Workers. She left her respected job at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital to follow her dream to open Fiddlehead Care Farm. 

As co-founder, Stephanie lives on the farm with her husband and three children where they enjoy growing organic food, exploring the forest, and taking care of the animals together. Stephanie holds an Honours degree in Child and Youth Studies and Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Social Work. Her expertise lies in strength-based counselling for children and youth and their families, with specializations in dual-diagnosis, trauma, and animal-assisted therapy.   

Other valuable experience includes her accreditation as a Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) provider and work as a Deafblind Intervener. Stephanie’s interests include yoga and incorporating mindfulness strategies into her practice..

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Luna
Superstar Therapy Pig

Luna is a micro mini-pig born on December 13, 2015. She is smart, funny and a little mischievous. She loves cuddling, grazing in the pastures with the cows, and doing special tricks for treats of Cheerios or organic apple snacks. Since we got her from our wonderful friends at Our Little Piggy and Heal with Horses in beautiful Prince Edward County, Luna has been changing lives at the farm with her non-judgemental and calming presence ever since! She enjoys having visitors and empowering others through her “Live with Luna” talk show.  

  • Melanie Mckenney - BA, RP

    Clinician - Registered Psychotherapist

    Melanie is a Registered Psychotherapist with a passion for art, play, nature and body-based experiences that promote self-care, healing, and connection.

    She holds an honours degree in Sociology and Visual Art and has continued studies in art therapy, mindful self-compassion, somatic experiencing, grief, and trauma. Melanie has been supporting children, youth, and families for over 15 years as they discover their innate strengths and wisdom while navigating life’s changes and challenges. Her approach to practice is trauma-informed, strengths-based, and centred in compassion. Melanie believes fiercely in the healing capacity of our relationships with each other, the natural world, and the animal companions we share it with. She is thrilled to join the team at Fiddlehead Care Farm!

  • Martine McLaughlin - BSc Psychology, ECE

    Life Skills Practitioner & Group Facilitator

    Martine McLaughlin (she/her) has a diploma in Early Childhood Education and a Bachelors of Applied Science in Psychology. Throughout her years of education and working with children and families, she has developed an appreciation for nature and the benefits it can have on one’s well-being and mental health.

    She embraces a child-centered approach and cultivates an environment where every client can grow, thrive and be their true authentic selves. Her primary goal within her practice is to facilitate valuable and meaningful experiences that promote learning through nature-based experiences and exploration.

  • Reegan Kett

    Program Coordinator

    Reegan Kett (she/her) is in her final year of her Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Sociology and Environment Studies. Her interest is rooted in the intersection of people and the environment. Upon graduation she plans to complete her Master’s in Counselling Psychology.

    Reegan has over 8 years of experience working with children in different realms, and additionally has worked at multiple farms and ranches. This is her second year working at FCF as a program coordinator. She is a warm and friendly mental health and social justice advocate. Here at the farm, you can find her taking care of the animals, tending to the land, and running our amazing programs!

  • Noel Seeley

    Administration Assistant

    Noel comes to us with a background in Medical Office Assistant. Working in past setting of Hospitals and Doctors offices. She has a love for anything outdoors, which includes her joy for photography of wildlife and landscapes.