Number of Years in Current Role:
1+ years
Number of Years with HMEA:
7 years
Number of years as BCBA:
3 years
Graduate Degree:
Framingham State University and Fitchburg State University
Undergraduate Degree:
Assumption College (Psychology)
Interests/Hobbies:
Roller Derby
Reading
Punk rock concerts
HMEA PROGRAM: The Darnell School, Hudson, MA
TITLE: Educational Administrator
What led you to want to earn your BCBA?
“After working so many years in ABA settings, I decided that it is where I belong.”
What has been your career path to date from your first job to your current position?
“I first worked at a school/residential program for students with disabilities after graduating from college. After three years there, I decided I wanted to work in a school setting.”
What is a typical day like in your current role?
“No two days are the same. I make the staff schedule, lead meetings, talk to parents, jump on shift with students, deal with the day to day, etc.”
What are the things you like most about your current role? What excites you and motivates you professionally?
“What excites me is seeing the progress of the students and hearing positive praise from the families. It makes this chosen field extremely rewarding.”
How did HMEA help you earn your masters degree?
“HMEA helped me earn my masters degree by providing tuition reimbursement and the required supervision hours.”
What do you like about working as a BCBA for HMEA?
“HMEA has room for growth and there are so many different parts of the agency. I’ve been working with children for years, but when I helped students transition, I was able to see the adult programs as well.”
What kinds of support does HMEA provide to BCBAs that help you focus on being successful in your role?
“HMEA provides supervision and hands on experience. We are open to new ideas and looking into the research. We use ABA language and do a lot of collaboration. We are a good team!”
Is there a professional accomplishment or success story of which you are especially proud?
“I think for myself, I started off not knowing what I wanted to do with my psychology degree. HMEA has provided growth and a career path for me. I feel successful and happy in my career.”
What advice would you give to Behavioral Therapists who are considering earning a masters and becoming a BCBA?
“Go for it! BCBAs are needed and it is a fulfilling and rewarding career.”
