Vanessa has been working with individuals with disabilities for over 15 years. Since discovering Applied Behavior Analysis, she has worked at all levels, including as a direct behavior technician, as a supervising clinician, and as the director of a clinic in the Los Angeles, California area at a premier ABA agency. As clinic director, she oversaw the work of BCBA Clinicians as well as the growth of the clinic’s home-, school-, and center-based services.
Since joining Behavior Change Institute as a Senior Clinician, Vanessa’s responsibilities include clinical development, oversight, and ongoing support of client treatment programs. Within that, Vanessa completes assessments, develops individualized treatment objectives and interventions, and provides ongoing training and support for caregivers and behavior technicians.
No matter what hat Vanessa has worn, her goal has always been to improve the lives of the children and families steroids for cutting with whom she has the incredible honor and privilege to work. Helping a child say their first word, take their first bite, or attend their first day of school is what she strives for every single day.
Affiliations
California Association for Behavior Analysis (CalABA)
Areas of Interest
Early Intensive Behavior Intervention (EIBI)
Verbal Behavior Approach
Natural Environment Training
Discrete Trial Teaching
PECS and AAC
Perspective Taking, Social Skills, and School-Based Intervention
Executive Functions
Feeding Disorders
Mentorship of RBT’s, RBT Interns, and BCBA Clinicians
Education
Certified as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in September 2011
Master of Science in Counseling with an emphasis in Advanced Applied Behavior Analysis from Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, completed April 2010
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Italian Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara, completed June 2005
Time at Behavior Change Institute
Since May 2019
The BCI Mission and what it means to me
As a part of a military family, I know all too well the challenges of being located in areas where necessary supports may not exist. I’m so fortunate to be a part of BCI’s mission of inspiring hope for families living in underserved communities. It means making a positive impact where it is needed the most. What an honor to be able to be a part of that mission!
