A Legacy of Care.
A Future of Hope.

Since 1981, Betamarsh has provided safe, nurturing spaces for youth to heal, grow, and thrive.
Rooted in trauma-informed and relational care, we continue to support youth across Ontario with compassion, confidence, and purpose.

Our History

Betamarsh Incorporated was founded in 1981 by Dr. Betty Bedard Bidwell, who recognized the urgent need for safe, therapeutic out-of-home care. Guided by a vision of healing and growth, she created a place where youth could rebuild their lives in a calm, supportive environment.

After 41 years of dedicated leadership, Betty retired in 2022, passing the torch to Blake Muxlow, now Executive Director. Under his leadership, Betamarsh Inc. remains committed to a strength-based, trauma-informed approach that empowers youth and staff alike. Today, our work continues to be guided by holistic care principles, relational connection, and an unwavering belief in every young person’s potential.

Our Mission

We promote a safe, nurturing, and inclusive place of safety for youth in our care.
We are committed to relational approaches that prioritize their well-being and actively amplify their voices.
We provide robust therapeutic life skills programming by fostering individual potential and efficiently connecting them to essential resources. Our steadfast commitment to trauma-informed, resilience-focused care ensures we empower those we serve to thrive.

Meet Our Team

Our team is united by one goal: to support youth with compassion, professionalism, and care. Each member brings deep experience and a strong commitment to helping young people thrive in safe, inclusive environments.

Blake Muxlow, Accfm (OAFM), CP Med (OAFM)
Executive Director

Blake has been with Betamarsh since 2014, working across all programs before becoming Executive Director. His leadership is rooted in high-quality care, program innovation, and a deep passion for supporting youth in out-of-home care. Blake also brings expertise in family mediation and child protection mediation through his private practice, Muxlow Mediation Inc.

Naomi Cohen
Director of Operations

Naomi has supported youth in care since 2006, building on nearly a decade of earlier volunteer experience. Her work centres on resilience—both for the youth Betamarsh serves and for the support team who walks alongside them.

Carol Wain
Life Skills Coordinator

Since 1995, Carol has led Betamarsh’s Life Skills and Animal Assisted Therapy programs. A certified Life Skills Coach with deep experience supporting transitional-aged youth, Carol is passionate about empowering young people through connection and hands-on learning.

Taylor Bechard
Education Liaison

Taylor supports students in the Betamarsh Alternative Classroom, creating an inclusive, welcoming learning environment. She focuses on both academic and personal development, helping youth build confidence and life skills through tailored support.

Sherry Muxlow
Equine Therapist

Sherry brings her love of horses and experience in education to her work as Betamarsh’s Equine Therapist. She designs sessions that meet youth where they are—fostering connection, confidence, and emotional growth through the healing power of horses.

Tara Dykstra
Registered Psychotherapist
& Certified Play Therapist

Tara has over 20 years of experience supporting children and youth, including over 15 years with Betamarsh. Her therapy approach is strength-based, trauma-informed, and tailored to each young person’s unique goals and interests.

Nicki Darbyson
Registered Psychotherapist

Based in Goderich, Nicki offers virtual counselling across Ontario. Her practice takes a nervous system approach to therapy, helping youth understand and regulate their responses to life’s challenges. Nicki’s sessions are warm, supportive, and rooted in self-awareness and growth.

Darby Muxlow
Human Resource
Manager

Darby Muxlow is committed to staff appreciation and engagement, believing that recognizing employee contributions fosters a positive culture and drives success. Through innovative programs and open communication, she ensures every team member feels valued and motivated.

Denise Moulton
Office Manager

For over a decade, Denise has managed the Betamarsh office with strong leadership and exceptional organizational skills. Her deep knowledge of operations and dedication to team development ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently.

The Heart of Betamarsh

At Betamarsh Inc., our front-line support staff are the heartbeat of our agency. They’re the ones greeting our clients, providing hands-on care, and making sure every day runs smoothly. While our team changes over time, one thing stays the same — the dedication, compassion, and energy they bring to every interaction.

Abby Daniels-Bobiwash

Alexis Lonsdale

Andrew Hook

Desiree Lapointe

Emily Brushett

Jane Freiburger

Joe Sloan

Kale Robins

Kali Moir

Kassidy Eastman

Mackenzi Hope

Natash Dub