Our ABA Team

The staff at Believe in Me makes utilizing a collaborative team approach an absolute pleasure.  

Our staff members are expertly trained in early childhood development and behavior strategies (with on-going training occurring weekly).  Our team is highly skilled and deeply passionate about the work we do.  

Miss Kristen, MEd, BCBA

Kristen graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science with a concentration in Community Mental Health and went on to obtain her Master’s of Education degree from Arizona State. Kristen currently holds a credential as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

Kristen started working in the field as a paraprofessional in 2008 and has been a tireless advocate for children with special needs. Kristen has a vast experience in a variety of settings from in-home to schools. Each opportunity has provided her with a new skillset and she has a strong background in supporting teammates, assessing children’s strengths, and working closely with families to promote skill development at home. Her passion is working with children to help them succeed. Kristen is excited to work at Believe in Me to teach the children new ways to grow!

Miss Jessica, MA, BCBA

Jessica graduated from Rider University with a BA in Psychology. She then went on to earn her graduate degree from Seton Hall University where she received her Masters of Arts in Special Education with a certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis. Jessica currently holds a credential as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

Jessica began her work in ABA as a behavior technician back in 2013. She has experience working one-on-one with children with autism within the home setting as well as a clinical/center based setting. Jessica is passionate about working with children at their earliest opportunity to help teach functional communication and activities of daily living that will help them thrive in everyday life!

Miss Randee, MS, BCBA, Supervisor of Candidate Quality Control

Randee graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis and then went on to get her graduate degree in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis. Randee currently holds a board certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Randee has worked with a variety of diagnoses and disabilities for individuals ages 1-16 within the home and school environments. Randee loves to teach functional communication skills to help children get what they want and need from others. She also loves to work with children’s motivation and incorporates programs into a natural play environment to help children learn.

Miss Julia, MA, BCBA

Julia graduated from Washington State University with a Bachelor of Humanities degree and went on to get her graduate degree at Capella University. Julia has a Masters of Psychology degree with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis and currently holds a credential of Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Julia began working in ABA as an RBT in 2019, but has been working in the field of autism intervention long before her first job in the field. Before that, Julia worked as a personal support worker providing assistance to adolescents with autism and then championed the platform of autism awareness during her time spent competing in the Miss America program. Julia believes that if every child has an adult that believes in them, regardless of their disability, the possibilities are endless! She loves working with children and truly enjoys spending time with children of all ages but especially enjoys getting excited about what they’re excited about! Julia is passionate about ABA because she’s seen it work for kids of all ages and is excited to be a part of helping kids reach their full potential!

Miss Gabi, BS, MEd, Lead Therapist

Gabi graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies. She also has a Master’s degree in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis from East Stroudsburg University and is currently seeking national certification in behavior analysis. Gabi has been working with children with Autism and developmental disabilities since she was in high school. Gabi has recently became certified as an instructor to train staff at Believe in Me in Handle with Care which emphasizes a safe environment for children with behavioral challenges. As a Point Person at the center Gabi is able to pursue her passion to work with and help children with special and unique needs!

Em, BA, RBT, Day Program Coordinator

Em is a Montclair State University graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in special education with a major in Family Science and Human Development and a concentration in Families, Children, and School Settings. She is Believe in Me’s longest-standing employee and has been a part of the team since the beginning! Emilee previously completed an independent study running a preschool program and teaching other high schoolers how to create lesson plans and work with children. She also spent time as a student teacher in a 5th grade resource classroom through Rider University. Emilee is excellent at developing instant rapport with children and loves facilitating lively games and activities to help children interact and build play skills!

Miss Chelsea, BA, RBT

Miss Chelsea has been with the Believe in Me team since March 2020 and has since become a Registered Behavior Technician. She is a Fairleigh Dickinson University graduate with a degree in psychology currently working to further her education by obtaining a Master's degree in ABA and working towards national certification. Chelsea is also currently part of Little Believers Club and loves helping children build their skills and gain confidence!

Miss Shannon D, AA, RBT

Miss Shannon is County College of Morris graduate and will be continuing her education even further. After obtaining her bachelors degree in Psychology, Shannon plans to attend Rutgers University to obtain her Masters in social work with a major in psychology and a minor in business. Shannon has a passion for mental health and psychology. She has experience working with children including special needs through previous camps and child-care positions. Shannon adores working with children and helping them grow and learn!

Mr. Chris, RBT, Day Program Assistant

Chris is originally from Auburn, Alabama and recently moved to New Jersey in June of 2021. He spent the last four years in Alabama working at a day program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the past year working on life and social skills with his clients in their own homes. He also coached Special Olympics Track and Field, Bowling, and Miracle League baseball during this time. Chris is pursuing his RBT credential and is looking forward to bettering the life of any child that he has the privilege of working with!

Mr. Anthony, BA, RBT

Anthony graduated with an Associate's degree in Criminal Justice and later a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology in 2019 from the University of Baltimore. He has prior experience working as a mental health worker in helping those with mental illnesses and developmental disabilities. Anthony entered the field of ABA in 2021, quickly advanced to a lead therapist and obtained his RBT credential. He is also interested in pursuing national accreditation in the next few years. Anthony is very passionate about helping others and loves nothing more than seeing his kiddos succeed!

Miss Kayta, BA

Kayta graduated from Bates College with a Bachelors of Arts in psychology and a minor in French. During her time in college she spent time doing research on adolescent and child therapy and is very passionate about the subject. Kayta hopes to further her education by pursuing a Master’s in counseling in the near future. She has extensive experience working with young children and greatly enjoys it. Kayta is thrilled to be a part of the Believe in Me team and make a positive impact on the lives of others!

Miss Kymberley, BA

Kymberley earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology with a Disability Studies minor from William Paterson University. She has always been inspired to help others and while in college she volunteered with children from ages 4-18 years old. Kymberley also worked as a student assistant in the William Paterson Transition Program where she supported students with intellectual disabilities while in class, also engaging with professors to ensure her students were provided with age- and developmentally-appropriate activities and games. Kymberley is honored and excited to be apart of team dedicated to helping children grow into their best selves!

Miss Mollie, BFA, RBT

Mollie graduated from Marymount Manhattan College with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. Singing and acting have been Mollie‘s passion from a young age and she understands first hand how developing and nurturing a child’s abilities and talents can be life-changing. Mollie has passionately worked with children in various capacities and settings from daycare, babysitting, camps, and theater performance. Mollie plans to pursue her Masters degree in Social Work and become a play therapist providing a safe space for children to find their voice and begin the healing process through the art of play!

Miss Thalia, Current Behavior Technician Student

Thalia was born in Puerto Rico and moved to New Jersey at a young age. Growing up in a family who fostered many special needs children, Thalia learned much about love and compassion. She had the opportunity to assist ABA therapists who worked with children in her home, which has given her valuable experience and knowledge in understanding and implementing ABA programs for children.Thalia became an advocate for her younger sister with special needs and was inspired to work with children who have diverse abilities and interests. She is very passionate about her job working with children and is determined to work diligently to ensure a great environment where every child can succeed!

Miss Madison, BS

Madison graduated from Stockton University with a Bachelors in Psychology and plans on pursuing her Masters in Counseling this upcoming year. Madison worked directly with children ages 1-12 at a daycare center for over 2 years. As a recreational therapist at Alaris Health she created therapeutic programs in a safe and inclusive environment for all of her clients. The reason she chose to work with children is because she always remembers the teachers that wanted to see her succeed and grow as a kid, and she is happy to be doing the same with the Believe in Me team!

Miss Kayla, BA

Kayla is a graduate of Ithaca College where she obtained her B.A in Psychology alongside a minor in Neuroscience. Since graduating, she has gained experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities as both a behavior technician and a direct support professional. She plans to pursue a Master’s degree in ABA in the near future in order to seek national certification. Kayla has always felt a strong passion for advocating for individuals of all ages with disabilities and believes everyone deserves the chance to maximize their potential. Kayla is thrilled to have the opportunity to help the little ones flourish!

Miss Shannon A, BA

Shannon graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a bachelor's degree in Psychology and with a minor in philosophy. She has always been passionate about working with children and helping them reach their full potential. Shannon has experience interning as a behavioral research assistant and gained knowledge of ABA while working in a preschool. She believes in creating a comfortable and happy environment to help children grow and learn. Shannon is excited to pursue her career working in this field and to be a part of the Believe In Me team!

Miss Angie, BSW

Angela began her educational voyage at the County College of Morris in Randolph Township. She achieved dual Associate of Science degrees in Liberal Arts and sciences with a specialization in Humanities/Social Science and Child and Family Studies. Continuing her pursuit of knowledge, Angela enrolled at Ramapo College of New Jersey in Mahwah. Here, she focused her studies on Social Science and Human Services (SSHS) and achieved a Bachelor of Social Work degree. Angela is currently in the Master's program at Ramapo College of New Jersey. She is set to graduate this spring, 2024, with a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. Angela's professional journey has seen her working across various diagnoses and disabilities, supporting individuals in home and school environments. Her dedication to working with children has been a cornerstone of her efforts, fostering an environment where they can learn and flourish!

Miss Samantha, BSW

Samantha graduated from Bloomsburg University with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and a minor in Criminal Justice. During her senior year of college, Samantha completed a 400-hour internship as a Children and Adult Case Management Intern. Samantha observed and participated in intervention planning, case management visits, peer-decision making, therapy sessions, and assessments. Samantha was able to connect with the children using her interpersonal skills. Samantha has also worked in two preschools as an assistant teacher. She enjoys working with children and advocating for children. Samantha is excited to be a part of the team and make a positive impact in the lives of the children and families!

Miss Tiffany, Current Behavior Technician Student

Tiffany has over eight years of experience in child care as a head teacher working with children ages six weeks to 6 years old. Tiffany loves working with children while applying behavioral management strategies. She is well-versed in parent communication and collaboration and supporting children’s social and emotional development. She is planning to further her education and seek national certification. Tiffany is thrilled to be part of a team dedicated to helping children learn and grow!

Miss Kellie, CDA, Current Psychology Student

Kellie is currently enrolled as Sussex Community College to work on her associate in psychology. She then plans on pursing her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Kellie has dedicated the last 7 years to working with children of different developmental ranges as well as different abilities. In August 2022, Kellie had received her Childhood Development associate degree. This brings Kellie a wealth of knowledge when it comes to child development and different strategies on how to learn through play. Kellie believes that learning through play is the best way to learn in a warm and comforting environment. She is excited to gain even more experience in her dream field!

Miss Latasia, Current Law and Government and Criminology Student

From a young age Latasia was heavily influenced by her parents’ careers. Her father worked as a special education teacher before becoming a Dean and her mother served as a counselor to teens on the spectrum. She often shadowed her parents which sparked her interest to work in the Autism field. Latasia has over 7 years of childcare experience including 2 years of ABA. She is currently attending Fairleigh Dickinson University double majoring in Law and Government and Criminology. She is planning to add a minor in Disability studies and plans to represent clients with developmental disabilities in the future!

Miss Carly, BA

Carly recently graduated from William Paterson University with her BA in psychology. She plans to start her masters program in Mental Health Counseling next fall to pursue her dream of being a mental health therapist! She has a passion for how the brain works and develops throughout childhood. She has years of experience working with kids and young adults with intellectual disabilities and mental illnesses. While at County College of Morris she worked with 17-26 year olds who have intellectual disabilities get acclimated to college as a Peer Mentor. She also gained experience through babysitting kids age 3 months-13 years old, working in after school programs, and summer camps. Carly is excited to join the Believe in Me team to help each child succeed in a safe, fun, and comfortable environment, as well as gain more skills and knowledge to obtain her RBT certification!

Miss Jessica, BA

Jessica studied Psychology with a concentration in Child Psychology at Sussex County Community College for two years. She went on to obtain her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a Minor in Psychology from William Paterson University. Jessica started working with children when she was a freshman in high school at Wallkill Valley Regional HS. She started as a volunteer camp counselor at Blue Mountain Day Camp. She continued to be a camp counselor each summer until she graduated. Jessica has 8+ years’ experience combined working with children and adolescents with special needs and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She is looking forward to learning new skills as she works toward becoming certified as a behavior technician. Jessica is excited to join the Believe In Me team and being a part of each child’s journey to fulfilling their potential!

Miss Melissa, BS

Melissa graduated with her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Pittsburgh. After her undergrad, Melissa worked as an assistant data manager in the Pitt Parents and Children Lab, researching the development of early behaviors in certain environmental factors, and applying research in early interventions to prevent negative early behaviors. She went on to work as a BHT providing ABA in Pittsburgh for 3 years. Melissa worked in the school, home, and community settings with her clients and ran a social group in the evenings for children with Autism, ages 5-21, to support peer interactions. Melissa is very excited to join the Believe in Me family and work with the children!

Miss Bella, Current Business Student

Bella is currently pursuing her business degree at Sussex County Community College. She has always loved being around children, being the oldest in her family she always had the role of the caregiver. Bella has also spent several years working in the daycare system as a caretaker and teacher. Here she was able to learn how to work with children of all ages, create lesson plans according to the age group of her classroom, and learn what allows children to excel the most. Her passion to work with children shows through her high energy and positivity she shows the children each day. Bella is very excited to work with the Believe in Me team and to watch each child grow to their full potential in an encouraging, safe, and positive environment!

Miss Vonesa, BA

Vonesa graduated early with her bachelor's degree in Sociology and Criminology from William Paterson University with a minor in Clinical Cognitive & Neuropsychology and in Anthropology. As one of the eldest in a large family, Vonesa has taken on the caregiver role from a young age. She loves taking care of children and understands how vital the early stages of life are, she finds joy in aiding children in these stages and watching them grow in every aspect of life. Vonesa has always enjoyed helping others in achieving their goals as well as those in need. She has spent time volunteering in beach clean-ups, park clean-ups, and as a tutor. During her undergraduate career, Vonesa interned at a Prosecutor's Office in the Special Victims Unit aiding in cases involving children which is where she was introduced to Forensic Psychology and to the psychology of Children and their emotional health. Vonesa is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Clinical Psychology with the end goal of earning a PhD. As a Clinical Psychologist Vonesa plans to work with children and the adolescent community and plans to continue her research on Psychological Maltreatment in Children. Vonesa has been working as a part-time babysitter for 8 years and has been working as a Behavioral Therapist in ABA for the past couple months and has enjoyed every minute of it. She loves the field, she is so excited to begin and to join the team!

Mr. Colin, Current Medical Field Student

Colin is currently pursuing an education in the medical field at County College Of Morris. His high school years were very involved in a program designed to assist children with autism, where he provided support with their daily activities and offered guidance with care and patience. Colin's partner's family fostered children with autism and he would find his days spending much time with them. There he found fulfillment and joy in his interactions with these kids. This experience solidified his future in a career of helping children, ensuring they receive the care and assistance they deserve!

Miss Marie, BA

Marie graduated from Montclair State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Medical Humanities and had a double minor in American Sign Language (ASL) and Psychology. Having family members with disabilities gave her an insight into the field of ABA however it wasn’t until the fall of her senior semester that she realized that she wanted to provide services in any field to help those who are not able to express themselves. Marie has now worked in ABA for almost a year with children aged between 2-10 years old. She feels the most rewarding part of each day is having a child master a skill or find their voice. Her intended goal is to pursue Speech Pathology in the next 3 years. Marie says she would not be the person she is today if it wasn’t for all her educators that got her to this point. She hopes that everything she does will give any kiddo that same impact!

Miss Jermaine, BS

Miss Jermaine graduated from Seton Hall University with a Bachelors degree in Biology and a minor in Psychology. While on the Pre-Med Track, Jermaine was a part of a psychology research lab where she became intrigued by how the brain worked and understanding mental health. She hopes to pursue a PsyD in Clinical Psychology in the near future. Jermaine has been passionate about helping others ever since she was a child. She has experience as a nanny, a paraprofessional in school, and as an in-home behavior technician. Jermaine loves working with children and helping them thrive in every way possible. She’s excited to be a part of the Believe in Me team and make a positive impact on these Little Believers!

Miss Lea, RBT

Lea studied Psychology at Caldwell University and plans to obtain her Bachelor’s Degree with a concentration in Early Childhood Development. She has worked with children for over ten years, from volunteering as a youth group member through her local Boy’s and Girl’s Club, to being an Early Childhood Educator for the past four years. Lea has always had a passion working with children to help them grow, learn, and flourish! Lea is so excited to be a part of the team and have the opportunity to make such a positive impact in children’s lives!

Miss Anaya, BA, MA

Anaya graduated from Rider University in 2020 with a BA in Psychology. She then went on to complete her Master’s in Applied Psychology from Rider University and is working towards national certification. She started in the field as an intern at Eden Autism in Princeton, NJ and has been working as an ABA therapist for the past three years. She has worked in a variety of settings including home-based therapy and center-based therapy. She has worked with clients between the ages of 1-12 years old and loves taking the time to get to know her clients and build a strong relationship with them. Anaya is enthusiastic about joining the Believe in Me team and can’t wait to see her clients thrive!

Miss Makenzi, Current Psychology Student

Makenzi is currently an undergraduate student studying psychology at William Paterson University. She is actively working towards obtaining a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and plans on pursuing her education further to get a masters degree for this field. She has plenty of experience working one on one in an ABA environment, in both home and school settings. Her love for this work continues to grow more and more every day, and she loves to be a part in helping children reach their full potential!

Mr. Ryan, Current Psychology Student

Ryan is an undergraduate student studying at Fairleigh Dickinson University, majoring in Psychology, and minoring in Fine Art Techniques. He has worked with children for many years at Morristown Beard Day Camp. During his time at MBS day camp, Ryan was awarded Camp Counselor of the Summer in 2019 and 2022. Along with this, Ryan has experience with babysitting young children, as young as ages 1 and 2. Ryan is dedicated to becoming a cognitive behavioral therapist in order to assist children and adolescents in need. At the center, Ryan knows that his love to work for children and dedication will be rewarding, as he looks forward to seeing the children around him grow and reach their individual goals!

Miss Megan, Current Psychology Student

Megan is working towards her degree in Psychology at Muhlenberg College. She has worked with children in settings ranging from babysitting, summer camp volunteering, co-teaching dance classes, and, most recently, fieldwork experience in a 2nd-grade Autism support classroom. Her time in the Autism support classroom confirmed her passion for working with children with diverse abilities, interests, and needs. Megan plans to pursue a Master’s in Social Work, gaining clinical and advocacy skills to support vulnerable children, adolescents, and their families. Megan is thrilled to be a part of the growth and development of the children at Believe in Me!

Miss Vikki, Current Biopsychology, Cognition and Neuroscience Student

Vasiliki (Vikki) is a first-generation undergraduate student studying at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, majoring in Biopsychology, Cognition and Neuroscience and minoring in Writing. Vikki has over a year of experience babysitting children with behavioral challenges. In high school, Vikki served as president of her youth group, where she organized, planned, and participated in community-serving and team building activities for children ages 7-18. She has been a volunteer/advocate for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital since the 8th grade, organizing statewide walks and individually fundraising on behalf of the non-profit. She was inducted into the St. Jude Leadership Society, and also completed an internship, or “Gratitude Project” for the Tristate Area Cohort in 2022. Vikki also competed in Miss NJ Teen USA, where she explored female empowerment, inspiring her to pursue a STEM field. Vikki is eager to help the children at Believe in Me achieve novel and individual milestones!

Miss Haley, Current Kinesiology Student

Haley is a student at Penn State University where she is currently pursuing her bachelorsdegree in kinesiology with a pre-med track. As a caregiver for many families over the years, Haley discovered her love for working with children and has a strong background in supporting children with behavioral and developmental challenges. Haley developed a strong teamwork ethic by being involved in unified sports and has been a guest star as an ABA practitioner at Believe in Me for the past year and a half while completing her senior project, gaining invaluable ABA experience. Haley is extremely excited to continue working at Believe in Me and see the kids grow!

Miss Natasha, MA, Ed.D

Natasha has been working with individuals with special needs since 2017. She has worked one on one with children in the West Milford District’s Special Education program and at a healthcare organization in Northern NJ. Prior to that, she helped to support adults with disabilities as they volunteered.  Natasha possesses her Doctorate in Administration of Special Education and has dedicated herself to supporting and helping others. Natasha loves working with children and is excited to help the children at the Believe in Me Developmental Therapy Center!

Miss Alicia, Current Occupational Therapy Student

Miss Alicia is working towards her degree in Occupational Therapy at Misericordia Universityl. She has a wealth of experience in working with children and spent time volunteering for Habitat for Humanity. Alicia began as an intern at Believe in Me, shadowing occupational therapy sessions and assisting in the preparation of activities for our children. Due to her excellence in creativity and work with the children, Alicia was quickly offered a long-term position and has been an invaluable member of the team ever since! Her love for the field has only grown during her time at Believe in Me and she finds working with our children to be extremely heartwarming and rewarding!

SERVING MORRIS, ESSEX, AND SUSSEX COUNTIES

Andover | Blairstown | Boonton | Budd Lake | Byram | Chatham | Chester | Clifton | Denville | Dover | East Hanover | Fairfield | Flanders | Florham Park | Hackettsown | Hanover

Hope | Jefferson | Lake Hopatcong | Ledgewood | Lincoln Park | Livingston | Madison | Mendham | Montclair | Montville | Morris Plains | Morristown | Mountain Lakes

Mt. Arlington | Mt. Olive | Newark | Newton | Parsippany | Randolph | Rockaway | Roxbury | Short Hills | Sparta | Succasunna | West Caldwell | Wharton