Alexa Petta

Program Manager, Patient and Family Experience

Alexa Petta is a Program Manager in Patient and Family Experience. Drawing on her clinical training and experience as a Child Life Specialist, Petta champions and oversees the integration of child and youth voices in efforts to improve the experiences of patients and their families. She leads the Patient Experience Community, the hospital's network of patient advisors, and supports the development of strategies, programs and initiatives that meaningfully engage children and youth in quality improvement efforts, and the design and delivery of healthcare services.  

Petta holds a Master of Science in Child Life & Pediatric Psychosocial Care from McMaster University. Prior to this role, she worked as a Certified Child Life Specialist in both clinical and family-centred spaces, supporting the psychosocial needs of patients and families.  

Education and experience

• 2016–2018: Master of Science in Child Life & Pediatric Psychosocial Care, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada

Achievements

• 2025–present: Board Member, The Children's Grief Foundation of Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada
• 2024–present: Pediatric Community Council Member, The Beryl Institute, Nashville, TN, USA

Pillainayagam, J., Petta, A., & Allemang, B. (2025). Championing Ethical Engagement of Youth in Healthcare: A Reflective Commentary. Journal of patient experience, 12, 23743735251399981. https://doi.org/10.1177/23743735251399981