Lab Director:
I established the Language and Cognition Lab upon my appointment in the Psychology Department at Trent University. The lab was designed to provide students with the opportunity to gain a variety of leadership, research, and clinical skills and be involved in knowledge translation and publication activities. The lab is also meant to be a place where curious, fun-loving, and collaborative individuals can build relationships, contribute to and support others' success, and help me with the elaborate and time-intensive pranks I plan for my colleagues.
Lab Coordinator
Amy Peverley, B.Sc., M.A.
I act as the lab coordinator from afar, as I now work away from Trent as a program analyst for the City of Peterborough. My focus is on the efficacy, quality, and utilization of child and family programs in the area. I completed my MA at Trent in 2016 under the supervision of Dr. Smith-Chant, and shortly after began my role in the lab as a psychometrist and project coordinator for a longitudinal study examining language, cognition, and numeracy in preschoolers. After leaving Trent I have remained as the lab coordinator and oversee the general operations of the lab. I work remotely for the most part but always come back for the delicious potluck meetings ;) I have two kids who keep me busy but when I have time I am an avid board game player.
Every time I think of you I feel shot right through with a bolt of blue. It's no problem of mine, but it's a problem I find livin' a life that I can't leave behind. There's no sense in telling me the wisdom of the fool won't set you free, but that's the way that it goes and it's what nobody knows, well everyday my confusion grows.
I completed my BSc (Honours) in Psychology at Carleton University and my MSc in Psychology at Trent University, which is when I joined the Language and Cognition Lab. My research interests lie in the production of novel metaphors, and more specifically, in the relation between this ability and executive function. I'm excited to continue this research in the Fall when I begin my PhD at Trent 🙂
My name is Justine Alvarado. I am a Master of Science student in Psychology. I hold a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Criminology and Justice and Forensic Psychology from Ontario Tech University. During my undergraduate studies, I developed a strong interest in psychology, which shaped my academic path. My current research interests include body image, social media, and self-concept. Outside of research, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, as well as having time to myself. In those moments, I enjoy reading, journaling, and going on runs.
I am completing my MSc focusing on Developmental Psychology. I am particularly interested in research exploring mental health and the mental health service use experiences of underserved communities, such as those with neurodevelopmental disabilities (e.g., autism). I am passionate about centering participant voices and integrating family and community perspectives in research. My overall career goal is to apply participant-centered research to advance equity in mental health care.
At home, I live with my husband and two young children as well as my two dogs and cat. I love spending time with my family, gardening, cooking, and baking. I used to make wedding cakes for work before pursuing a second career and going back to school!
I completed my undergraduate degree at Carleton University and am interested in research that focuses on cognitive development across the lifespan. My master’s thesis, under the supervision of Dr. Im-Bolter, examines associations between executive function and social problem solving in young adults. In my free time, I enjoy figure skating and spending time in nature.
I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Carleton University, and am currently in my second year of my master’s degree at Trent University in the Applied Modelling and Quantitative Methods program. My research interest involves language and reading. Specifically, I am interested in exploring the role of executive function and oral language on reading comprehension in school-age children. I am also the project coordinator for a project looking at language and reading in pediatric epilepsy. Outside the lab, I enjoy spending my time reading, crocheting, and playing video games
My primary interest lies in the skillful application of statistical modelling techniques within psychology. Alongside my graduate studies, I serve as a workshop leader for 2nd and 3rd year research methods and statistics courses in the Department of Psychology at Trent University Durham GTA. I am also a long-time member of the Language and Cognition lab, where I have been fortunate to receive ongoing supervision and support from Dr. Im-Bolter throughout my undergraduate and graduate studies. I could list all the activities that might make me appear intelligent and interesting, such as computing and storytelling (in all its manifestations); however, what I truly treasure in life is laughing and making others laugh.
I completed my B.Ed. at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto and am currently working as an occasional teacher at the York Region District School Board. I also work as a co-project manager for a pilot initiative called the East Asian Youth Civic Activism & Wellness Project, which aims to explore topics such as cultural identity and social justice, and promote awareness of positive well-being amongst East Asian youth. I enjoy volunteering as a workshop facilitator at school events and conferences. I am continuing my learning at Trent University and pursuing my interests in student development, mental health, and community building.
My name is Alexandria and I am currently a Psychology student completing my undergraduate studies, with strong interests in how early experiences shape children's social and emotional development. I am particularly interested in topics like childhood adversity, family relationships, and neurodevelopmental differences, including autism.
Hello! My name is Katie, and I am a fourth-year Psychology major. I am also working toward completing the Specialization in Psychological Development and the French Certificate. In my free time, I enjoy going for walks, baking, doing yoga, rollerblading, getting coffee, and spending time with my friends and family. I am excited to take part in the Research Practicum and gain hands-on research experience. I am looking forward to developing new skills that I can use in my future studies.
(They/them)
Currently in my 4th year of undergrad in Honours Psychology. Recently completed my thesis, “Connecting in the kitchen: A qualitative evaluation of social inclusion and engagement in culinary programming for Autistic adults”. After graduating I will be continuing my education in a master's program (tbd where and what) in psychology.
Research interests: Autism, typical and atypical development, stress management, behaviour modification, anxiety, and cognitive and social impacts of AI.
I've had a profound empathy for and understanding of those with autism my whole life. It wasn't until I stumbled upon a checklist for women with autism that I realized I might be Autistic myself. I consider myself fortunate to have been born into a highly academic and stable family. This environment allowed me to compensate for my sensory and emotional overwhelm, understand how my experience differed from others, and leverage the benefits that came with autism.
I recently returned to university to study Psychology with a specialization in Behavioural and Cognitive Neuroscience after losing my passion for finance. My goal is to bridge science and therapy by developing empirically supported, trauma-informed therapies that lead to more effective support for Autistic adults. Despite being early in this new career, I am committed to helping create a future in which Autistic people are empowered to embrace who they truly are rather than being defined by perceived deficits.
Hello! My name is Alessia Zegarra, and I am a third-year student majoring in psychology at Trent University. Originally from Lima, Peru, my passion for research is rooted in a deep curiosity about the primary language spoken in my home country. I am joining the lab with a strong interest in the intersection of language, cognition, and social development, specifically bilingualism, and multilingualism. I am fascinated by how growing up in a dual-language environment shapes social interactions, cognitive abilities, and identity, especially in children. I am excited to contribute to the lab and gain a deeper understanding of language acquisition, and cognitive functioning. In my free time I enjoy listening to music, watching films, cooking, baking, and trying new recipes!
I am Vihangi Mehta and a B.Sc.(Hon) in psychology with a specialisation in developmental psychology from Trent University Durham. I have always had love for statistics and that's a reason why I always wanted to be a part of the lab and work in the field of research. My 4 years at Trent has taught me a lot and that has deepened my love for working with the community and for the community. I absolutely enjoy working in the lab and want to continue my journey on the path of research.
PhD
2021
Katherine Bailey; Department of Psychology, Trent University/Queen’s University. Thesis: Language and Social Cognition in Children with Epilepsy (supported by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada). [Currently: Assistant Lecturer, Psychology, University of Alberta - Augustana Campus]
MA/ MSc/ MEd
2025
Kiera Johnston; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: What’s it Take to Get a Novel Metaphor Around Here? Exploring Potential Contributors to Novel Metaphor Production. [Currently: Ph.D. student, Developmental Psychology, Trent University]
2024
Alisa French; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Differentiate and Conquer: Associations between Self-Other Differentiation and Adaptive Capacity in Adolescents with and without Mental Health Disorder (supported by an Ontario Graduate Scholarship). [Currently: Ph.D., Developmental Psychology, Trent University]
Natasha Kahler; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Social Anxiety and Body Image in Young Adults (supported by a CGSM-SSHRC).
Janice Shewen; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Oral Language and the Approximate Number System.
2023
Nicole D’Angelo; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Children Adopted from China: Cultural Socialization Practices, Parent-Child Relationship, and Social-Emotional Behaviour. [Currently: Course Demonstrator, Trent University Durham GTA]
2022
Jonathan Whitsitt, M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Social Anxiety and Executive Function (supported by an Ontario Graduate Scholarship and CGSM-SSHRC). [Currently: Ph.D. student, Clinical Psychology, University of New Brunswick]
2021
Marisa Leuzzi; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: The Relations between Identity Developmental Processes, Study Habits, and Academic Performance. Co-supervisor: Dr. Alba Agostino (Child and Youth Studies, Trent University Durham GTA).
Paige Pascoe; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Preschool Pretend Play as a Predictor of Early Academic Abilities (supported by an Ontario Graduate Scholarship). [Currently: BCBA, Durham Catholic District School Board]
Ashley Robertshaw; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Drink My Beer, Smoke My Weed, My Good Friends Are All I Need: An Exploration of how Attachment-Motivation Relationships May Influence Substance Use. Co-supervisor: Dr. Jennifer Eastabrook (Psychology, Trent University Durham GTA).
2020
Laura de la Roche; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Developing Social Skills: A Pilot Study of a Parent-Mediated Intervention for Children with ASD [Ph.D., Psychology, Queen’s University]
Patrick Fox; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Exploring Characteristics of those Utilizing Different Modalities of Treatment for Substance Use Disorders (supported by a CGSM-CIHR).
Rachel Thompson; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Facilitating Self-Regulation Through Physical Activity.
2019
Jillian Mead; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Problem Solving and Cognitive Flexibility in Young Adults. [Currently: Research Assistant at Pearson Clinical Assessment]
Tina Slaunwhite; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Cognitive Inefficiencies in Adolescents with Eating Disorders: An Evaluation of Cognitive Remediation Therapy. Co-supervisor: Dr. Jennifer Eastabrook (Psychology, Trent University Durham GTA).
Cassandra Aked; M.A., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Executive Function, Emotion Regulation, and Social Problem Solving in Late Adolescence and Early Adulthood (supported by a CGSM: SSHRC). [Currently: Academic Advisor, Trent University Durham GTA]
2016
Sarah Healy; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Socio-emotional and Behavioural Problems and Executive Function in Children with Epilepsy.
Jan Lobban-Shymo; M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Social Communicative Factors as Predictors of Symptom Severity in Autism Spectrum Disorder. [Currently: Psychoeducational Consultant, Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board]
2015:
Ashley Toohey, M.Sc., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Cognitive and Affective Theory of Mind in School-Aged Children (supported by a CGSM-SSHRC). [Currently: Ph.D., School and Applied Child Psychology, Western University]
2013
Katharine Bailey, M.A., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Social Problem Solving and Language in Middle Childhood and Early Adolescence. [Ph.D., Psychology, Queen's University]
Muniq Anam, M.A., Department of Psychology, Trent University. Thesis: Parent-Child Synchrony and Child Psychopathology. [Currently: Therapist, Surrey Place Centre]
2012
Shawn Douglas, M.Sc., Applied Modelling and Quantitative Methods, Trent University. Thesis: Development and Validation of a Revised Questionnaire for Measuring Experience of Narrative Worlds. Co-supervisor: Dr. Elaine Scharfe (Psychology, Trent University). [Ph.D., Psychology, University of Alberta]
2011
Keely Owens, M.A., Applied Modelling and Quantitative Methods, Trent University. Thesis: Social Problem Solving, Theory of Mind, Language, and Mental Attentional Capacity. [Currently: Psychometrist, Durham Catholic District School Board]
(2025-2026)
Ashley Caine; Honours Thesis: What's It Like? Jamaican Parent Experiences as They Navigate the School System.
Vee Lukow-Rodgers; Honours Thesis: Connecting in the Kitchen: A Qualitative Evaluation of Social Inclusion and Engagement in Culinary Programming for Autistic Adults.
Ishveen Narang; Honours Thesis: Little Minds, Big Problems: Social Problem Solving in Preschoolers.
(2024-2025)
Christina Auger; Honours Thesis: Autistic adults and employment: What are their experiences?
McCaley Campbell; Honour Thesis: The relation between executive function and reading comprehension in children. [Currently: M.A., School and Clinical Psychology, OISE/UT]
Michelle Hunt; Honours Thesis: Modelling and facilitating social interactions with Autistic adults. [Currently: M.Sc., Developmental Psychology, Trent University]
Zoe Radford; Honours Thesis: Reading comprehension and oral language. [Currently: M.A., Child Study and Education, OISE/UT]
(2023-2024)
Steven Sheehan; Honours Thesis: Self-efficacy and executive function in young adults. [Currently: Psy.D, Clinical Psychology, Adler Graduate Professional School]
(2022-2023)
Stephanie Andrade; Honours Thesis: Social anxiety and negative body image: Comparing adolescents and adults [M.Ed., Counselling Psychology, OISE/UT]
Ashley Muir; Honours Thesis: Emotional regulation and cognitive flexibility in older adolescents and young adults.
(2021-2022)
Shirley Chang; Honours Thesis: Exploring social perspective taking in monocultural and bicultural children.
Alisa French; Honours Thesis: Social perspective taking and social competence in adolescents with and without psychopathology. [M.Sc, Developmental Psychology, Trent University; Currently: Ph.D., Department of Psychology, Trent University]
(2020-2021)
Taylor Collins; Honours Thesis: Figurative language across childhood and adolescence. [M.HSc., Speech-Language Pathology, University of Toronto]
Nicole D’Angelo; Honours Thesis: Children adopted from China: Attachment and social-emotional behaviour. [M.Sc., Developmental Psychology, Trent University]
Natasha Kahler; Honours Thesis: Social anxiety and empathy: Does emotion regulation mediate the relation? [M.Sc., Developmental Psychology, Trent University]
(2019-2020)
Logan Hamer; Honours Thesis: Social problem solving, self-esteem, and empathy in young adulthood.
Michelle Ryken; Honours Thesis: Social anxiety and social problem solving. [M.A., Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University]
Jonathan Whitsitt: Honours Thesis: Social anxiety and executive function in older adolescents and young adults. [M.Sc., Developmental Psychology, Trent University; Currently Ph.D., Clinical Psychology, University of New Brunswick].
Danisha Zaman: Honours Thesis: Social anxiety, emotion regulation, and inhibition. [MPH (Epidemiology), Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto]
(2018-2019)
Hailey Collins: Honours Thesis: Social problem solving and executive function in preschoolers. [M.S.W., University of Toronto]
Daniel McAdam-Wong: Honours Thesis: Social anxiety and theory of mind [Currently: M.A., Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University]
Paige Pascoe: Honours Thesis: Pretend play and early academic abilities [M.Sc., Developmental Psychology, Trent University]
(2017-2018)
Taylor Crawford: Honours Thesis: Preschool narrative ability predicting early school achievement [Currently: Ph.D., Clinical Psychology, University of Waterloo]
Jerrica Mulgrew: Honours Thesis: The link between early language and later numeracy skills [Currently: Ph.D.., Psychology, Western University]
Kayla Peel: Honours Thesis: Executive function in the world of play
(2016-2017)
Kaitlyn Parks: Honours Thesis: Language, working memory, and figurative language in children with and without language problems [Currently: Ph.D., Psychology, Western University]
(2015-2016)
Kathleen Wilson; Honours Thesis: Predicting social competence: Implications for children’s mental health [Currently: Ph.D., Clinical Psychology, University of Windsor]
(2014-2015)
Cassandra Aked; Honours Thesis: Narratives in children with psychiatric disorders [M.A., Developmental Psychology, Trent University]
Karri-Lynn Cooper; Honours Thesis: Individual differences in theory of mind and reading comprehension [M.S.W., University of Toronto]
Raheleh Saryazdi; Honours Thesis: Learning a new language: A meta-analysis of the effectiveness of immersion education [Ph.D., Psychology, University of Toronto]
(2013-2014)
Krista Ross; Honours Thesis: Joint story telling in psychiatrically referred and non-referred mother-child dyads [M.A. (Health Care Administration), Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University].
(2012-2013)
Crystal Schultz; Honours Thesis: Figurative language and social problem solving in children with and without language impairment [M.HSc., Occupational Therapy, McMaster University]
(2011-2012)
Ashley Toohey; Honours Thesis: Theory of mind and language in psychiatrically referred children [M.Sc., Trent University; Currently: Ph.D., School and Applied Psychology, Western University]
(2010-2011)
Katharine Bailey; Honours Thesis: Language and social cognition in children with language-based disability [Ph.D., Developmental Psychology, Queen’s University]
Janine Lisowski; Honours Thesis: Theory of mind in monolingual and dual language children.
Kyla McDonald; Honours Thesis: Language and social cognition in children with high functioning Autism and with Asperger’s Syndrome [Ph.D., Developmental Science, Ryerson University; Currently: Ph.D. candidate, Clinical Developmental Psychology, York University]
(2009-2010)
Joanne Ayotte; Honours Thesis: Theory of mind and language in school aged children.
(2007-2008)
Keely Owens; Honours Thesis: Theory of mind in children with language impairments [M.A., Applied Modeling and Quantitative Methods, Trent University]
(2006-2007)
Jan Lobban-Shymko; Honours Thesis: Sleep in individuals with autism spectrum disorder [M.Sc., Trent University]
(2005-2006)
Ruby Nadler; Honours Thesis: Reading and language in children with specific language impairment and in children with reading disability [Ph.D., Psychology, University of Western Ontario]
2026
Winter: Allison Bright, Vihangi Mehta, Alec Wrightman
Summer: Alexandria Austin, Allison Bright, Kasia Malz
Fall: Alexandria Austin, Katie Czerwonka, Genevieve Lukow-Rodgers, Kasia Malz, Alessia Zegarra
2025
Winter: Ashley Caine, McCaley Campbell, Tasneem Khalifa, Vee Lukow, Ishveen Narang, Alec Wrightman
Summer: Ashley Caine, Tasneem Khalifa, Patricia McCourt, Ishveen Narang
Fall: Vihangi Mehta, Aisha Patel
2024
Winter: Christina Auger, McCaley Campbell, Sydney Dilling, Neetu Gandhi
Summer: Ishveen Narang, Zoe Radford
Fall: Vee Lukow, Ishveen Narang, Alec Wrightman
2023
Winter: Christina Auger, Michelle Hunt, Ashley Muir, Steven Sheehan, Zoe Radford
Summer: Steven Sheehan
Fall: Christina Auger, McCaley Campbell, Sydney Dilling, Michelle Hunt, Zoe Radford
2022
Winter: Olivia Gould, Matthew Sims
Summer: Stephanie Andrade, Ashley Muir
Fall: Stephanie Andrade, Christina Auger, Ashley Muir, Steven Sheehan, Zoe Radford
2021
Winter: Shirley Chang, Emily Donahue, Rachel Kaunismaa, Meghna Raghavan
Fall: Shirley Chang, Olivia Gould, David Knox
2020
Winter: Kelsey Binger, Brooklyn Bujara, Taylor Collins, Alisa French, Natasha Kahler, Stephanie Littleford, Summer Prevost, Meghna Raghavan, Michelle Ryken, Michelle Spillane
Fall: Shirley Chang, Emily Donahue, Meghna Raghavan
2019
Winter: Taylor Collins, Katherine Nocera, Michelle Ryken, Hailey Rutherford, Jonathan Whitsitt, Danisha Zaman
Fall: Kelsey Binger, Brooklyn Bujara, Taylor Collins, Alisa French, Natasha Kahler, Stephanie Littleford, Summer Prevost, Meghna Raghavan, Michelle Ryken, Michelle Spillane
2018
Winter: Hailey Collins, Taylor Crawford, Jesenia Duran, Logan Hamer, Daniel McAdam-Wong, Mackenzie McBride, Ashley Merela, Aerlyn O’Keefe, Paige Pascoe, Jessica Todd, Jonathan Whitsitt, Danisha Zaman
Summer: Jesenia Duran, Logan Hamer, Taylor Strachan
Fall: Taylor Collins, Jesenia Duran, Logan Hamer, Katherine Nocera, Michelle Ryken, Taylor Strachan, Jonathan Whitsitt, Danisha Zaman
2017
Winter: Hailey Collins, Jennise Fortner, Nicole Heathcote, Emma Kelly, Daniel McAdam-Wong, Sara Momtaheni, Kayla Peel, Madeline Zoelman
Fall: Hailey Collins, Taylor Crawford, Daniel McAdam-Wong, Aerlyn O’Keefe, Paige Pascoe, Jessica Todd, Jonathan Whitsitt
2016
Winter: Nicole Heathcote, Danielle Paris, Kaitlyn Parks, Kathleen Wilson
Fall: Blaise Gelinas, Hailey Collins, Nicole Heathcote, Daniel McAdam-Wong, Sara Momtaheni, Madeline Zoelman
2015
Winter: Cassandra Aked, Blaise Gelinas, Geoffrey Laforge, Kathleen Wilson
Fall: Danielle Paris, Kaitlyn Parks, Kathleen Wilson
2014
Winter: Karri-Lynn Cooper; Brittney Forester, Patrick Fox, Krista Ross
Summer: Cassandra Aked; Karri-Lynn Cooper; Raheleh Saryazdi
Fall: Geoffrey Laforge, Kathleen Wilson
2013
Winter: Spencer Haze, Sarah Hunt, Carina La Mantia
Summer: Brittney Forester, Patrick Fox
Fall: Krista Ross, Cassandra Meester
2012
Fall: Spencer Haze, Sarah Hunt, Carina La Mantia
2011
Winter: Amy Leddy, Daphne Ling, Crystal Schultz, Caryn Smith, Laura Yeomans
Summer: Leanna Ritchie, Alexandra Stade, Ashley Toohey, Laura Yeomans
Fall: Leanna Ritchie, Ashley Toohey, Laura Yeomans
2010
Winter: Amanda Gordon, Susan Hartwell, Janine Lisowski, Hailu Lockyer, Austin Sye, Trista Whitehead
Summer: Katherine Bailey, Kyla McDonald
Fall: Amy Leddy, Daphne Ling, Crystal Schultz, Caryn Smith, Laura Yeomans
2009
Winter: Joanne Ayotte, Jana Cryderman, Elyse Kadey, Tonya Proniuk
Summer: Emily Jones, Janine Lisowski
Fall: Katharine Bailey, Susan Hartwell, Emily Jones, Janine Lisowski, Hailu Lockyer, Kyla McDonald, Austin Sye, Cheryl Wellwood, Trista Whitehead
2008
Fall: Joanne Ayotte, Jana Cryderman, Elyse Kadey, Tonya Proniuk
2007
Winter: Jennifer Finbow, Melissa Kroonenberg, Jan Lobban-Shymko, Mallorie Wrightly, Valerie Todd
Fall: Jennifer Finbow, Melissa Lunn, Katherine Milligan, Keely Owens
2006
Winter: Rebecca Lowe, Ruby Nadler, Jill Zolderdo
Fall: Melissa Kroonenberg, Margot McKinlay, Mallorie Wrightly, Valerie Todd
2005
Winter: Rebecca Lowe, Ruby Nadler, Rachelle Silcox, Jan Lobban-Shymko
Brooklyn Bujara
McCaley Campbell
Shirley Chang
Jesse Conforti
Nicole D'Angelo
Michael Degeus
Jese Duran
Olivia Gould
Juniper Hewson
Michelle Hunt
Pat Jarosz
Natasha Kahler
Sabina Kapoor
Vee Lukow
Kyla MacDonald
Kasia Malz
Daniel McAdam-Wong
Nicolle Miller
Katherine Nocera
Kaityn Parks
Paige Pascoe
Alisa Pitre
Meghna Raghavan
Lili Raus
Steven Sheehan
Tiana Vandendort
Jonathan Whitsitt
Danisha Zaman
Madeline Zoelman