I see you are a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). What exactly does this mean?

Simply put, it means I’ve studied the science of learning. The field is best known for work with those with disabilities but applications go well beyond that — it is integral to how I approach helping individuals with a range of mental health and behavioral challenges. This also means my work is grounded in science-proven and -tested methods; you can trust that my approach will be informed from years of research and practice. For more information on BCBA, visit bacb.com.

What licensure do you hold?

I’m a licensed behavior analyst in the state of WA and practiced in California for many years. Currently, California does not have behavior analytic licensure.

I’ve had negative experiences with behavior analysts. How are you any different?

Over the last several years I’ve been thinking critically about behavior analysis from a trauma informed and neurodiversity affirming lens. Initially, this journey started after speaking to many Autistic and neurodivergent people who had been harmed by ABA practitioners. I was then diagnosed as Autistic as an adult which continued to direct me towards facing uncomfortable truths about my field as well as confronting my own ableism. Reflection and behavior change are an ongoing process; I strive to accept and incorporate feedback about lived experiences from the greater neurodivergent and Autistic communities.

What are your rates?

Due to the variability of needs for each individual or program, my rate is provided on a case-by-case basis. Rest assured, I work with institutions and families to find a rate that is fair; my goal is to help those who need quality services.

Are you covered by my insurance?

I am an out-of-network provider and do not directly bill your insurance company; payment must be received at the time of service. This allows for greater flexibility in my services based on a child’s true needs and not based on what insurance will allow.

Some may choose to seek reimbursement through their insurance, in which case I will provide you with the ‘superbill’ documentation required by your insurance company.

Why should we hire an outside professional to do assessments other school personnel or employees at my site can do?

The field of behavior analysis and the written guidance we provide is often over simplified and misunderstood. For many individuals engaging in mild disruptive behavior a few simple strategies or the addition of a reward for good work will change the behavior. However, for complex cases, such as individuals engaging in serious behaviors that pose a threat to themselves or others and those who are at risk of being placed in a more restrictive environment, a BCBA with significant experience is often required to ensure the recommendations in the plan are the best for that individual and the educational environment the person is in. Lastly, an experienced BCBA can provide follow up training and consult to ensure any plan is properly implemented.