Los Angeles, CA

Subspecialty Areas: Clinical Behavior Analysis, Behavioral Treatment of Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities, and Behavior Analysis in Education

Missy is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with a remarkable journey spanning over 15 years of working with children and adolescents with special needs. Her profound commitment to making a difference in their lives has been a driving force throughout her career.

Missy's journey into the world of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) began in Los Angeles, California, where she worked with children at a private elementary school. It was here that she was first exposed to a diverse array of challenging behaviors, which piqued her curiosity and led her to explore resources on positive behavior change. Her desire to make a significant impact on the lives of children and adolescents, particularly those with developmental delays, grew stronger each day.

Driven by her passion, Missy ventured into the field of ABA, embarking on a career as a behavior therapist, providing support to children in both in-home and school settings. During this transformative phase, her determination to create positive behavior change intensified, and she discovered her true calling. The field of ABA became her compass, providing her with a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment in the world.

Missy recognized that to advance in this field and broaden her impact, she needed to advance academically. Her academic journey began during a challenging period, marked by the global recession, which imposed limitations on available classes and resources. Undaunted by these obstacles, Missy displayed immense resilience and unwavering perseverance. She successfully earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology through The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

Following the completion of her undergraduate studies, Missy continued her academic pursuit, earning a Master’s Degree in Education with a focus on Applied Behavior Analysis from Arizona State University. Throughout her academic journey, Missy had the privilege of working closely with a team of esteemed Board Certified Behavior Analysts who mentored her in various evidence-based practices, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Discrete Trial Training (DTT), Functional Communication Training (FCT), and Pivotal Response Training (PRT). These experiences broadened her expertise and fortified her commitment to providing quality, evidence-based services.

Beyond her academic pursuits, Missy is an avid golfer and a passionate fly-fisher, finding solace in the great outdoors. Her musical talents shine through as she plays the ukulele and enjoys singing. Missy is also a proud and loving dog mom to two golden retrievers, Duke and Micah, as well as a gentle giant of a mastiff named Bruce Wayne.