The Portia Learning Centre Inc. strives to be a regional leader in providing intensive, comprehensive educational programs based on the scientifically validated principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis ABA to children with autism.

The Portia Learning Centre Inc. uses the literature and scientifically proven methods of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), also referred to as Intensive Behavioural Intervention (IBI), to guide the treatment and instructional recommendations for children with autism. The Portia Learning Centre Inc. will be using a model of instruction called ABA based on Skinner's Analysis of Verbal Behaviour, otherwise known as ‘Verbal Behaviour'.

According to research, a large percentage of children with autism can improve in some or all areas if early, intensive one-to-one instruction is given. Some children have even succeeded in becoming independent members of society. The Portia Learning Centre Inc. is a state-of-the-art facility, founded to meet the unique educational needs of each child. Our centre based program provides a stable learning environment where program supervisors are able to view the child's development on a daily basis as each child progresses through one-to-one therapy with the instructor therapist. Home Programs and Consultative Services are also available, please contact us for more information.

The Centre's founder, Kim Moore, has extensive experience working with ABA; both locally (in the Ottawa region) and internationally.

The Portia Learning Centre Inc. works with Dr. Karen Ogston (Psychologist) on a consultative basis.

We are open to work with outside professionals. Jacquee Glance (Speech and Language Pathologist), members from OCTC (Ottawa Children's Treatment Centre) visit our centre on a weekly basis.

"IBI is considered “best practice” for young children with autism, based on literature which has demonstrated its efficacy relative to less intensive intervention, eclectic intervention, and equivalent amounts of special education."Read more »

Adrienne Perry, Anne Cummings, Jennifer Dunn Geier, Susan Hughes, Nancy Freeman, Louise LaRose, Tom Managhan, Jo-Ann Reitzel, Janis Williams (2006)