Get to know the people behind your favourite places & spaces in downtown Burlington! We’ll be introducing you to new owners & businesses throughout the year!

Meet Olivia and Vasuki , two colleagues turned besties and the faces behind Outstanding Ventures Therapy!

1. Tell us a little bit about Outstanding Ventures Therapy – how did the company come to be?

Outstanding Ventures Therapy (OVT) was founded by Olivia Gaspar and Vasuki Thiruchelvam — two behaviour therapists who met at work, quickly became work besties, and realized they shared the same dream: creating a therapy space that felt joyful, respectful, and genuinely human.

After years of working in homes, schools, and clinics, we saw the need for a place that truly centered the individual — not just goals and data, but connection, creativity, and confidence. OVT was born from that shared vision.

At OVT, we support children, youth, and adults with autism and developmental needs by focusing on social-emotional learning, communication, independence, and real-life skills — all through play, connection, and individualized care. Every client’s journey is different, and we celebrate that by meeting them exactly where they are.

2. Why did you choose Burlington Downtown to open your location?

Downtown Burlington felt like home the moment we stepped into it. The sense of community, inclusivity, and warmth aligns perfectly with our values as clinicians and business owners.

We wanted OVT to be somewhere families feel comfortable walking into — a place that’s vibrant, welcoming, and connected to the heart of the city. Being downtown allows us to feel part of something bigger: a community that supports local businesses, families, and meaningful connection.

3. What downtown businesses do you frequent and do business with?

We love supporting local and have already become frequent visitors to several downtown gems, including local cafés and eateries for quick lunches and coffee runs, downtown shops and services along Brant Street and surrounding areas, and community events and markets whenever possible. We truly believe strong businesses grow stronger together, and we’re excited to continue building relationships within the downtown core.

4. You’ve written a book called Theo’s World of Letters! Tell us about it!

Yes — we are published authors!

Theo’s World of Letters was written from both our professional experience and our hearts.
The book follows Theo, a nonverbal autistic child who experiences the world through letters. Inspired by the incredible individuals and families we’ve worked with, the story celebrates neurodiversity, alternative communication, and the beautiful ways neurodiverse children navigate life.

Our goal was to create a book where children feel seen, understood, and empowered — and where families and educators gain insight into perspectives that are often overlooked. The book is currently available on Amazon and in person at our clinic, and this is just the beginning. Writing inclusive stories for neurodiverse children is something we are deeply passionate about and plan to continue.

5. Your space on Pearl Street is inspiring! How are you using art as a teaching tool?

Thank you — this is one of our favourite parts of the space!

The artwork throughout OVT is intentional. It’s not just décor — it’s a teaching tool. We use visual art to support language development, emotional regulation, storytelling, and self-expression. For many of our clients, visuals help make abstract concepts concrete and accessible. Art also creates a calming, engaging environment where clients feel safe to explore, learn, and be themselves.

6. Do you have any upcoming events you’d like to share?

We’re always dreaming up new ways to support families and the community! We’re currently exploring seasonal programs and camps (yes — including March Break), as well as community-based activities and collaborations.

In addition, we run different social groups and evening camps on weeknights and Saturdays, giving families more options to engage, connect, and have fun. More details coming soon — and we can’t wait to share what’s next.

7. Which animal would make the best addition to the OVT team?

Without hesitation: the Octopus 🐙

Why? Because octopuses are incredibly intelligent, adaptable, and creative — just like the individuals we support. With eight arms, there’s always room for eight hugs, multitasking, and meeting many needs at once. Plus, they’re curious, flexible, and thrive by problem-solving — very OVT energy.