executive team
Jennifer Helten
Founder and CEO
Hi there! I am the founder, owner, and CEO of Unique Pathways. I did not plan a career in ABA, and I did not anticipate owning a company at any point in my life. My love was, and still is, the ocean. I had planned on becoming a Marine Biologist specializing in the study of sharks. God had other plans and is continuing to lead me through the journey I am currently on. I began my career over 25 years ago when I took a job as a nanny in Dallas. One of the kids was diagnosed with Autism. At that time, I had not heard of ABA, and my knowledge of autism was limited; think "Rain Man." As I observed and learned more about the science, I made the decision to become a direct therapist, and so began my journey.
I have worked with children as young as 18 months and as old as 23 all of whom had varied skill, behavior, and development levels. I have assisted in designing numerous IEPs and accompanied families of school-age children to their annual ARD meetings. I shadowed 20 of my 25 years in private schools throughout the DFW metroplex. I designed and led yearly-held summer camps; targeting social and emotional development, and had the privilege of traveling with families, domestically and abroad, in order for their child to actively participate in family vacations. In 2015, I was hired to start and oversee the shadowing program for a private Christian school in Grapevine, Texas. Shortly thereafter, I was promoted to Director and, after five years, resigned to focus solely on Unique Pathways. Additionally, I sit on multiple expert panels designed to assist ABA business owners. ABA must remain child-focused, tailoring each program to meet the child's development and needs. I value quality over quantity.
I am originally from Kansas and the oldest of seven children. I have been with my husband for 25 years. We have a beautiful daughter, a German Shepherd named Sophie, and a cat named Goldie. Once upon a time, you would have found my husband and me cruising around town on our Harleys; however, we have traded our bikes in for the next best thing, an oldie but Goldy, CJ-7 Jeep. I enjoy meeting new people and look forward to God's path for me.
#notanotherABAmill
Monica Dooley
Executive Assistant
I have been blissfully in love with my husband since 1999. We have five kids, four of which are still living at home. My oldest is a newlywed in the Navy, training to be an extreme meteorologist. I was able to stay home with the kids while my husband built his career after leaving the Army. I’ve dubbed us “Texa-homa-radoans”, as we have bounced from Texas, to Oklahoma, Colorado, Nebraska, and eventually made our way back to Texas. Over the years of raising my babies, I have worn many hats, including being a hole-filler at our churches, a youth leader, mentor, retail manager, school admin secretary, photographer, and small business owner. I have a strong connection with the special needs community and am grateful to have the opportunity to assist Unique Pathways in their current goals and future growth.
I grew up in San Antonio with my parents and younger brother. “Bear” as we called him, had a series of traumatic brain injuries and was diagnosed with “severe Autism” and epilepsy in the early 1980’s at a very early age. Not much was known about autism at the time and his likely misdiagnosis didn’t help the situation. Bear functioned at the age of no greater than a two-year-old for the majority of his life, with little to no communication skills, could not feed himself in a safe or sanitary way, and was not able to be toilet trained. I grew up quickly, helping my parents with my brother’s multiple needs and volunteering in his classrooms and after-school care facilities. My empathy for the families raising neuro-diverse children grew into compassion and, eventually, led to me working with neuro-diverse communities through my photography.
I still have my photography business, but after having moved twice during the pandemic, and simultaneously covering photography clients across three different states, I am taking a break from full-time entrepreneurship and devoting myself part-time to Unique Pathways while settling into our new home in Denton. I'm happy to still serve the neuro-diverse community that I love... just with a little less driving. :)
I value fun, flexibility, personal growth, learning, and relationships. I love live music and sporting events, and will jump at the chance to attend either on any given day! I would rather be outside more often than not, and basically anything I can do in the mountains or in the ocean is my bliss. Hiking, adventuring, water fun like snorkeling, or even a river float trip are definitely top of my list to do when I get the chance.
#notanotherABAmill
Paul Boettcher, M.S.
Clinical Director
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA)
I am originally from South Dakota but have been living in the Dallas Metro for almost five years. I grew up all over the Midwestern United States and have also lived in northern Canada. I am a Christian and have been since April 4, 2013, which is my primary reason for being in a sensitive and amazing field such as this one! I am married with three wonderful children.
I received my undergraduate degree in psychology from South Dakota State University while working for a behavior analytic company and accumulating experience for approximately 2 years as a line-level therapist for individuals with autism. Simultaneously, I attended The Sage Colleges M.S. program in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism and am currently a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Before coming to Unique Pathways, I served as a Clinical Supervisor over school-based, home-based, residential, and consult-based programs in a variety of settings. I have extensive experience assessing, programming, and creating a successful program for individuals with autism and related disorders. I also have experience conducting in-depth training with parents, school professionals, and clinical staff.
I'm now the Clinical Director after serving as the Lead BCBA at Unique Pathways for four years and absolutely love what we are trying to accomplish as a company. I am blessed to be part of a team that genuinely cares for all children and is motivated by providing quality service to others.
#notanotherABAmill
Tierra Mathews
Office Manager
I was born in South Bend, Indiana but raised in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. I am currently majoring in Psychology intending to receive my Bachelor's in the fall of 2020. I have known my entire life that I wanted to help people, in particular, children. I spent two years coaching volleyball and six years working with kids in different programs such as the YMCA.
I’ve been working with Unique Pathways for three years as a Registered Behavior Technician, and I’m in love with the field of ABA. At the age of 26, it’s not often you find a job where you see your hard work directly change lives. I’ve always known I wanted to work with children, but I’m blessed to be part of a team that’s driven with passion and integrity.
I enjoy so much being able to come to work every day and make an impression on the life of a child. I hope with this experience, and a degree in psychology, I can continue to grow and help make significant impacts on lives daily in our community. I am blessed to be with a company with so much passion and purpose.
#notanotherABAmill
speech & Language Pathologists
Speech & Language Pathologist
Justice Stockton, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech & Language Pathologist
Hey, y'all! I was born in Waco, TX but raised in the Dallas area (Duncanville, specifically)! I have been a Speech Language Pathologist for 3 years now and truly enjoy my work. I graduated with my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Speech Pathology from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX. While at SFA, I met my now husband, Joshua, and we moved back to Dallas to be closer to my family. I come from a pretty big family, and we are super close, so I love having them down the street from me.
I always knew I wanted to do something in the helping profession, and during my junior and senior years of high school, I participated in a teaching internship, and that is where I discovered the world of speech pathology. Shortly after my senior year of high school, I was in a car accident and had to receive speech therapy services, and that was my sign from God to become an SLP. I love the feeding and sensory aspects of our field and working with kiddos with ASD. It warms my heart to see my kids reach their goals and surpass all expectations.
When I am not working with the littles, I enjoy binge-watching tv, spending time with my husband and family, and love to travel. I LOVE to collect cups and water bottles and will always have one with me. I love hearing about the crazy things my kiddos do at home, so feel free to share all the amazing stories with me, and if you have any questions for me, don't hesitate to reach out!
#notanotherABAmill
Speech & Language Pathology Assistant
Hannah Davenport, B.A., C-SLPA
Certified Speech & Language Pathology, RBT
Hello! I am Hannah Davenport! I graduated in Spring 2022 from Texas Woman's University with a bachelor's degree in Communication Science Disorders and currently work as a Speech Pathology Assistant. During my time working on my undergraduate degree, my cohort voted me as NSSLHA SOCS historian. I also simultaneously worked at a local Pediatric Clinic in the Dallas Fort Worth area, specializing in patient care from newborns to adolescents. Working with kids and adolescents is a real joy and an extension of my personal life, as I have two children of my own.
As a young child, I always planned on becoming a nurse. This was until my father suffered from a stroke. Seeing my father's struggles and setbacks during his recovery inspired and cultivated a love in me for helping individuals overcome adversities to live full and fulfilling lives. At the time of my father’s stroke, I was coincidentally taking an introduction to communication science disorders class where my passion for the field of speech pathology began. My father and our family struggled to find an answer to this sudden medical condition as he was evaluated by multiple doctors who were all stumped by his becoming mentally disabled overnight. This experience inspired me to continue my education to become a Speech Language Pathologist to assist my family members and other families going through similar hardships.
I am currently continuing my education to receive my master's degree in Spring of 2025 with plans to become a Speech Language Pathologist. I can’t wait to learn more about the field of speech pathology as this field has lit a fire under me that could never burn out.
#notanotherABAmill
Speech & Language Pathologist
Brittany Westfall B.S., C-SLPA
Certified Speech & Language Pathologist
Hi! I’m Brittany Westfall. I was born and raised in the small town of Nashville, Arkansas.
From a young age, I knew that I wanted to work with children for a career. I became a teacher’s assistant while also attending TCC in Texarkana where I received an Associate’s degree in Behavioral Science. I loved working with children that needed speech therapy. This showed me first hand the difference SLPs can make in a child’s life, in and out of school. This experience lit a fire in me to be able to continue along this path.
I was also fortunate to be hired as a nanny for a family I met at the school, and was asked to continue taking care of these children when the family moved to the Dallas area. I continued my studies at the University of North Texas where I recently graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology.
When I’m not busy working with kids, I love to spend time with my family and enjoy outside activities. I enjoy fishing, hunting, kayaking and exploring whenever I get a chance.
I am extremely grateful and excited to be a part of the Unique Pathways Team and to be working with children to help them reach their full potential!
#notanontherABAmill
bcba + bcABA team
BCBA
Jasmine Monsivais-Mendez, M.Ed
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA)
Hi all, I'm a Board Certified Behavior Analyst that is currently serving a variety of group ages (18 months- 18 years of age). I received my undergraduate degree from Texas Woman's University in 2016, specializing in Child Development with an emphasis on Child Life. Shortly after, I began attending the University of Cincinnati where I received my Master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis in 2019. While working towards my Master's degree, I worked as a therapist, team leader, and training coordinator.
Prior to onboarding to Unique Pathways, I served as a Clinic Supervisor/BCBA supervising clients in the clinic setting. I have been in the ABA field since 2016 and have experience working with children with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) in a variety of settings, including clinic, home, and school settings. Serving our families has been such an amazing experience and I thank all of the families for continuously trusting us with the treatment and care of their loved ones. The outcomes that ABA is able to provide along with the support of other professionals have allowed us to see our clients grow and bloom in amazing ways.
When I'm not working, I'm enjoying my time with my beautiful and energetic daughter, Emma. We love spending time outdoors playing with bubbles, riding her bike, gardening, and doing all kinds of fun activities. I'm beyond thankful for the opportunity I have been given to work with a company that is so family-oriented, is faith based and has great values.
#notanotherABAmil
BCBA
Monique Wilkins, MScEd
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA)
I was born and raised in North East Texas in a really small town between Greenville and Paris Texas, you'll miss it if you blink. I have one younger sibling. I have always loved caring for people and helping them. My journey into ABA occurred when I stumbled across a program at Baylor University during a graduate school tour with my Undergraduate Program called McNair Scholars. I met with the Dean of the school and fell in love with the thought of helping children progress in school and in the community.
I studied at Baylor University in their Masters Educational Psychology Program that emphasized in Applied Behavior Analysis. With this program I was able to interact with individuals with varying abilities. Every single encounter helped me grow and further fall in love with the field. I graduated this program in 2019 and moved on to clinical work. I currently have 4 + years' experience working in ABA, including my practicum and graduate work studies. I really hope to someday target the more rural and less targeted individuals.
Outside of work, I like relaxing and planning meals. I enjoy cooking, but I love sharing it even more. I love to read, swim and watch mystery investigations. Sometimes just sitting with a a good book or binge watching watching anime/ dramas makes for a good day, as well. I tend to be a perfectionist and put a lot of thought into my work. projects and ideas. I like to consider everyone else's thoughts, feelings. opinions, allergies (when I'm cooking for a group). I like making people feel included and valued. I hope to continue making a positive impact with my work and I can't wait to meet you
#notanotherABAmill
BCBA
Julie Devlin, MBA, MS.Ed
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA)
I was born and raised in Baldwin, NY on Long Island. I have always been an avid sports fan (Go Mets and Islanders!!) and athlete, playing softball and ice hockey for as long as I can remember. I went to school at the University of New Haven, where I played collegiate softball while getting my Bachelors in Management of Sports Industries and my M.B.A. Coaching softball after graduating made me realize how much I adore working with kids. Quickly after entering the business world, I began school…..again. But this time to become a Special Education Teacher!
I worked as a Teaching Assistant in a Pre-K Special Education Class, 2nd Grade Inclusion Class, and 3-5 Grade Self-Contained Class from 2017-2021 on Long Island. I received my Master's in Special Education from Molloy College in 2021 before moving to Texas. My career at Unique Pathways began in August of 2021. Shortly after, in 2022, I received my advanced certificate in Behavior Analysis from Florida Institute of Technology. I am extremely fortunate to be able to spend my career doing what I love, helping kids reach their full potential.
When I’m not working I love to spend time with my family and friends, travel, go for hikes, and be at the beach or lake!"
#notanotherABAmill
registered behavior technicians (RBTs)
pursuing national certification
Lead RBT
Maggie Tobolka, M.SpEd
Hello to all! I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas, and am the third of four children. I crossed the Red River, however, to attend the University of Oklahoma for my undergrad. I graduated from OU in the spring of 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in Special Education and am enrolled to receive my master's from OU. Boomer Sooner!
My experience working with children began with babysitting when I was 15 and progressed through working at daycares, giving swim lessons to little ones, and teaching in various special education rooms and ages. Working with children has always been my passion. I have been an intern at Unique Pathways for two summers and am excited to join the team permanently. Receiving the opportunity to work at Unique Pathways is a dream come true because it allows me to pursue a career that offers a reciprocal positive impact on those I work with and on myself, as well.
When I am not working or studying, I enjoy hiking, relax out by the lake, bake, and spend time with my family and friends.
#notanotherABAmill
Registered Behavior Technician
Lead RBT
Josh Veals, M.Ed
I was born and raised in Houston Texas and I am the youngest of three children. I graduated from the University of Houston Downtown in 2016 with my Bachelors of Science in Psychology.
It was not until my senior year of undergraduate studies, when I realized that I wanted to work with kids. During that time, I was working as a chess instructor teaching kids around Houston how to play chess. Watching my students progress and get better at the game of chess to the point where they started going to state championships, made me realize that working with kids is something that I want to do.
Currently, I am working on getting my Masters degree in the area of Educational Psychology at Stephen F. Austin University. My ultimate goal is to become a BCBA when it is all said and done! I am thankful and blessed to be a part of an amazing team, at Unique Pathways!
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. watching sports (mainly the Dallas Cowboys), playing video games, and reading books.
#notanotherABAmill
Registered Behavior Technician
Lead RBT
Alexis Karpenko
I am the youngest of three, born and (partially) raised in Tampa, Florida. My dad was in the Air Force, so I spent about three years living in Honolulu before moving to the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Most of my time is spent as personal assistant to my dog and two cats. This year I became a first-time aunt so now I live to serve my beautiful niece as well.
I graduated from the University of North Texas and received my Bachelor’s in Applied Behavior Analysis in Spring of 2020. I’ve been working with kids for almost 5 years in multiple environments. Before graduating, I started the process of applying to law school but, ultimately, decided to take a gap year to try out the professional side of ABA. This is when I had my Oprah “Aha!” moment and truly found my passion in helping kids through ABA. My goal is to continue to grow in my field to become a BCBA. I have applied to graduate school as of the end of 2021 and, hopefully, will attend by the Fall of 2022.
I am so blessed to have joined the team at Unique Pathways and continue to serve this community. I love spending time and creating connections with these amazing kiddos.
#notanotherABAmill
Registered Behavior Technician
registered behavior technicians (RBT)
RBT
Dia Gonzalez
Registered Behavior Technician
I was born and raised in Fort Worth Texas, and as I grow older I find more things to love about our diverse metroplex.
I am currently a psychology major at UT Dallas, and I am hoping to start a doctorate program by the fall of 2023. Ever since I can remember I have had a passion for psychology and a deep love for working with children. So naturally, being an RBT is pretty much my dream job! I am so thankful to have a job where I get to play all day, while simultaneously helping kids grow.
While this is my first job in the psychology field, I have been babysitting and nannying children with special needs (ranging from ASD to cerebral palsy) since I was 12 years old. I also volunteered in special needs classrooms (PreK-12) for the last 6 years of my schooling. Working with these kids has really changed my life, and there is nothing else I would rather do!
When I am not working or doing homework, you will usually find me going on hikes or visiting a local coffee shop. I also really enjoy all things cooking and baking, and when the world starts to open back up again, it will be very hard to pull me away from the art museums!
#notanotherABAmill
RBT
Destiney Blackwell
Registered Behavior Technician
Hello everyone! I was born in chicago and moved to Texas when I was in elementary school and have been here ever since. I am the second oldest of five and a mother of one to a beautiful little boy. I am currently a student at Purdue University to get my bachelors of science in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analyst.
Hi! I have worked with children almost my whole career. I did in-home childcare/babysitting for a couple of years before being hired at a daycare as a Lead Teacher. While working at the daycare, I found that I especially loved helping children with autism. As I did more research into how to pursue this as a career, I discovered careers in ABA therapy. I immediately was intrigued by the field and wanted to join as soon as I could. I transitioned to an ABA center shortly after and received my RBT license.
I am so glad I found ABA therapy when I did and so proud to be a part of the journey with so many amazing kids and being able to watch them grow.
Outside of work I enjoy hanging out with my little family of three and my even bigger family back at home! I enjoy hiking and going on trips. I love to dance and have danced all my life. I also love to choreograph dances... for not only myself but for others!
#notanotherABAmill
RBT
Gabby Leija, B.A.
Registered Behavior Technician
Hi my name is Gabriella but I go by Gabby. I am from Wichita Falls, but I was in Lubbock for 4 years before making it to the DFW area. I graduated from Texas Tech University with my Bachelors Degree in Psychology along with a minor in Human Development & Family studies. I decided to enter the ABA field because of my love for children. Helping them grow and learn has always been something I have wanted to be a part of.
I have worked in churches and schools with kids for most of my life. I come from a family of educators so beginning my journey with these kiddos is very exciting for me! My hobbies include: going to the gym, taking walks/hikes, listening to music and going to concerts with my friends.
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RBT
Madason Whittaker, M.A.
Registered Behavior Technician
Hello! I was born in Indiana and lived there until I was 23. I moved to Texas in August of 2023. I completed my undergraduate degree in psychology at Ball State University, Muncie, IN. My plan was to become a Certified Child Life Specialist, and as one of my fieldwork experiences, I worked at an ABA clinic. I absolutely loved the work that I was doing, so I went back to school to get my Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis. I graduated in July of 2023, and am working towards becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
I have enjoyed working with children for as long as I can remember. It started with babysitting when I was younger and working with the children at my church. I worked as an associate teacher before finding my calling of working with children with autism as an RBT. I have been an RBT since 2020. I have worked with individuals from ages 2 to 21 in a variety of settings, such as school, in home, and clinic based. I have been fortunate to have opportunities in assisting with assessments, program planning, and training staff members. I love having the ability to make a difference in others lives and my passion continues to motivate me in my work.
Since I just recently moved, my goal is to make friends and find a community. I have always been very social and love being able to make connections with others. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, working out, and exploring Texas. I will also be studying like my life depends on it to pass the BCBA exam.
#notanontherABAmill
RBT
Janice Colon, M.S.
Registered Behavior Technician
Hello my name is Janice Colón, I started as a Registered Behavior Technician in 2017 and after 6 years, I am working my way up again to be a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I have developed a deep understanding and love for the ABA field and how to best help our clients grow in home, clinic, school, and community.
I have a daughter on the Autism Spectrum and she has become my inspiration. My mission has always been to help other children on the spectrum live out their best lives through therapy. Seeing the clients grow in their goals and reaching their milestones warms my soul!!
I have lived in Texas since 2015 living near Austin, I am originally from New York, my family and I ventured to the Dallas/Fort Worth Area for new opportunities! When I'm not at work, I enjoy painting, hiking and working out with my daughter.
#notanontherABAmill
RBT
Morgan Hogans, B.S.
Registered Behavior Technician
I was born and raised in Frisco Texas and am the oldest of two children. I recently graduated in May of 2021 from Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Go Pokes!!!!!!!! I plan to continue my education this spring and begin my studies towards a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and obtain my LPC Licensure.
In high school, I discovered my passion for Psychology as well as helping others and began to seek any opportunity to pursue that field. I obtained my Certified Nursing Assistant License (CNA) where I participated in clinical rounds at hospitals, dentist offices, and nursing homes. I then completed a mentorship program under the supervision of a Child Life Specialist at Baylor Scott and White.
Working with children has always been my passion and I was fortunate enough to get another opportunity to work at AlphaBest Education for two years. The experience was invaluable and I really enjoyed working with K- 5th-grade level children in the after-school, day camp, and summer programs.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, running, watching movies with my little brother, and traveling to amazing new places!
#notanotherABAmill
RBT
Olivia Patak
Registered Behavior Technician
Hello! I was born and raised in the DFW metroplex, specifically the Keller area. I graduated high school in 2022 and headed out west to Stephenville, Texas to attend the best kept secret, Tarleton State University! I am studying Communication Sciences and disorders, in hopes to become a Speech and Language Pathologist.
I am the fourth child of eight! I know, life was never boring. That being said, I have been in the routine of taking care of others my whole life. From a young age, I interacted with children of all ages who were diagnosed with autism through a close family member. I was also exposed to ABA at a young age. I have interacted with children with special needs for as long as I can remember. I began working with children as a lifeguard giving swim lessons and began babysitting for other families at the age of 14. I have had the amazing opportunity to work at Unique Pathways the past two summers as an intern, so I am very excited to take on a more permanent position as an RBT!
When I am not at work, I enjoy spending my days out hiking, traveling, spending time with friends/family, and playing with my pets. I love new experiences and have been told I am an experience junkie! I look forward to meeting new people, and am excited to be part of the Unique Pathways family.
#notanotherABAmill
RBT
Ayumi McCall, M.A. Counseling
Registered Behavior Technician
Hello Everyone! My name is Ayumi McCall but I go by Amy.
I am originally from Japan, but I believe I am Texan! I graduated from Dallas Baptist University with my master’s degree in counseling. I have been working in the ABA field since March of 2021, and I am planning to enroll in a BCBA certification program soon. My ultimate goal is to become a BCBA.
I love working in ABA therapy and I am blessed to work with our clients. I have personally seen the benefits of ABA therapy. For example, reduced behaviors, improved social and life skills, communication skills, as well as a host of other benefits. I believe that God has a plan for all of us, and I am here to serve our clients and their families as well.
My favorite time of day is to spend time with my dogs and watch my favorite Japanese dramas on YouTube. I am married and have enjoyed being a stepmom since 2011. I love my family and being who I am. But the most important fact about me is “I love Jesus!”
#notanotherABAmill
RBT
Ebony West, BME
Registered Behavior Technician
Hey y’all! My name is Ebony West. I was born and raised in the small town of New Brockton, AL. Being the only girl of 5, I grew up a tomboy. Hunting, fishing, and all things country were my life! I began playing the saxophone at the age of 12. My band director noticed I had talent, and with his help and guidance, I was able to become one of the best baritone saxophonists in the state. That encouragement helped me find a new passion to ignite those same flames in other children. I studied Music Education in college, and after completing my time at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, I became an assistant music teacher at a Lutheran school. When the school year was over, I decided to visit my mother in Kansas and decided to stay. Looking for a new job, I happened upon an RBT opening at an ABA center in Junction City, Kansas and fell in love with it. I knew then that I wanted ABA to be in my life for the rest of my life. That position led me to become a Translational Life Skills and Cognitive Therapist, while also being a lead RBT. My journey in Kansas brought me to Unique Pathways where I am able to apply all the things I’ve learned over the years.
I am absolutely in love with being an RBT and conducting direct therapy. Because of that, I'm unsure of what route I want to take with my Master's degree, but I will certainly continue to pour my entire heart and soul into the ABA field.
I have a 4 year old rescue dog named Nash. In my free time I’m either gaming, baking, spending time with my family, or nerding out over anime, music of any and every genre, manga, and comics. It is truly a privilege to be a part of the team and I cannot wait to witness the continued growth of Unique Pathways and of the families we serve.
#notanontherABAmill
RBT
Nancy Amaya
Registered Behavior Technician
Hello! My name is Nancy Amaya but I go by Nance. I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. I am a proud parent of 2 and also a current student at Texas Woman’s University! I am pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and I have worked for many years with children in school settings as a teacher.
I found out very early on in my teaching career that I had a passion to work with children and for helping them learn and grow! I’ve had numerous life-changing experiences with children, both on and off the spectrum, including my own son, that have helped me learn and grow both as an individual and as a parent. I want to return the favor by helping as many kids as I can be the best version of themselves! That is why I chose the ABA field.
When I am not at work or doing homework, I am usually spending my free time with my kids and my partner or with friends. I enjoy doing just about anything but most days you will just catch me getting cozy with a book and a cup of coffee!
#notanontherABAmill
RBT
Cameron Mitchell
Registered Behavior Technician
Hello! I was born and raised in Flower Mound, Texas. I am the youngest of three brothers and two military parents. I am a parent to two dogs and one cat and love them very much!
I started working with children immediately after I graduated from high school. I never knew it was something that I wanted to do, but immediately fell in love with working with them. It brings me great joy to work and help others whenever I can, so being an RBT is a natural fit for me. I get to work with kids and to help them at the same time!
I am currently enrolled at The University of North Texas and will graduate in 2023 with my bachelor’s degree. Fun fact... I am also working to get my real estate license as I complete my senior year in college. So, you'll often find me studying in my spare time!
I am so blessed and excited to have joined the Unique Pathways Team and community, and can’t wait to make many new connections along the way!
#notanotherABAmill
RBT
Tierra Sanders
Registered Behavior Technician
Hi, my name is Tierra. I am a proud mother of two. I have been a Registered Behavioral Technician in the ABA field since 2022. I am also student (a future Registered Nurse!) and will be graduating in 2025. I cherish my clients. I truly enjoy being a RBT.
ABA therapy was something that I had never heard of prior to entering the field. It really grew on me! Working in the ABA industry has taught so much about individuals on the spectrum. I've learned about social cues, communication techniques, triggers, positive/negative reinforcements, and conscious discipline. Since I'd never really practiced these things in my day-to-day life before entering this field, I have first-hand experience in the positive changes that can come from ABA therapy. I now practice these things daily... especially with my own little ones! ABA has even helped me evolve as a person in my personal life!
In my down time, I enjoy watching medical shows like The Good Doctor, Chicago Med, and The Resident, just to list a few. I am a strong believer in Health is Wealth, so I work out at minimum 4 days a week, but usually 5 days a week. I spend time being a big kid with my kids. My quiet time is spent doing meditation and journaling. Reading is another hobby that I enjoy doing when I have some alone time. I absolutely enjoy getting my nails and feet done and I am a facial type of gal. Self care is the best care!
I pray to be a Registered Nurse within the ABA industry. That is my ultimate end goal.
#notanotherABAmill
RBT
Tanisha Alexander
Registered Behavior Technician
Hello, my name is Tanisha Alexander and I am ecstatic to be on the Unique Pathways team! I was born in St. Louis, Missouri, but my family moved to Texas when I was six years old. I graduated from Princeton high School in a small town just east of McKinney. Afterwards, I pursued my licensing in cosmetology, and though I enjoyed making women and little girls feel beautiful, there was a lack of purpose and fulfillment.
I began working with children as a camp leader and realized I absolutely loved it! Although working with large groups of children was, at times, overwhelming to me, when I found work in the field of ABA as a behavior technician I was able to operate in the quality of care I had always wanted. The ABA therapy was an opportunity to provided intentional devotion to each child with autism. I have been doing this since 2021, and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. I am a firm believer in the quote from Frederick Douglas, “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” By this, I work and strive to help children become their absolute best!
There is nothing more fulfilling in my career than assisting with shaping this next generation for a bright future. My spiritual fulfillment has come from my pursuit of the Lord Jesus since I was 18, and my surrender to Him at 26. I live my life for His glory and He has made beauty from the ashes of my past. I’m currently in school at TCC and will be transferring soon to study pediatric psychology in hopes of equipping children with coping skills that they can carry throughout the trials and seasons of life.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know me and I look forward to pouring into your child.
#notanotherABAmill
RBT
Tony Peniston
Registered Behavior Technician
I’m Anthony, but I go by Tony. I was born in St. Petersburg, Florida, but was raised in Texas. I joined the Navy and served on the U.S.S. Enterprise, where I worked on the flight deck. I completed two tours of the Western Pacific Ocean, traveling from San Francisco to Hawaii, numerous ports in the Far East, Africa, and Australia. After the Navy I went to school and earned a degree in Mental Health and Addiction.
I began working in the mental health field in 1996 in an acute psychiatric unit specializing with children and adolescents. After my graduation I took a clinical position working with adolescents in a therapeutic community in Dallas where I was promoted to clinical manager. The opportunity became available as the assistant director of a major substance abuse treatment facility in Texas, where I supervised the operations of the adult detoxification unit, Men's residential program, and the HIV residential program.
I contracted a serious case of COVID, and was unable to work for over a year. I yearned to get back to work, and found a position working with children on the autism spectrum. Serving these precious young lives IS a rewarding and enriching experience. I believe there is no better service than to teach young minds life and daily functioning skills that they can take away to improve their futures.
When I’m not working, I'm an active member of my church and gym. I try to visit with my elderly mother and walk her dog as much as possible, and I love spending time with my daughter and 5 year old grandson.
#notanontherABAmill