Natalie Holtby, M.A. (Doctoral Candidate)
Natalie Holtby is a doctoral student in the School and Clinical Child Psychology program at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, a faculty within the University of Toronto. Her undergraduate and master’s work were also completed at the University of Toronto, where she earned an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in 2016, followed by a Master of Arts degree in School and Clinical Child Psychology in 2018. Natalie’s doctoral research seeks to develop our understanding of the mechanisms through which “sluggish cognitive tempo” (trouble focusing and paying attention) influences a child’s learning and well-being, with the goal of identifying possible targets for early intervention.
Over the course of her studies, Natalie has been inspired by the many ways in which psychological knowledge helps us to better care for ourselves and those around us, motivating her pursuit of a career in the field of clinical psychology. As a graduate student, she has gained critical experience in diverse clinical settings with a range of presenting issues. Through working in a school board, community mental health centre, and university training clinic, as well as in private practice, she has developed assessment and intervention skills, working with individuals in early and middle childhood, adolescence, and emerging adulthood. As an integrative therapist, Natalie draws from evidence-based treatment frameworks to deliver interventions tailored to client needs, preferences, and goals. She has experience providing cognitive behavioural and relational play-based therapeutic approaches, and has worked with both individuals and groups. As a Psychology Doctoral Resident, she is excited to work with clients in the Durham community and be a part of the team at Dr. Angela Fountain and Associates!
In her spare time, Natalie’s interests include reading, working on artistic projects, and following local sports. Coming from an agricultural background herself, she particularly enjoys spending time with horses and cattle.