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Leadership
Jessika Hatchell, B.A., BCAT
Director of Operations Jessika started out as a Board Certified Behavior Technician when first exploring the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. Throughout the years she has worked for several Applied Behavior Analysis companies holding additional positions such as Training Coordinator, Clinical Supervisor, and Associate Regional Director. During her time at Active Steps, Jessika has been responsible for the design and implementation of Active Step's Telehealth services and managing the Ventura County region. Currently, Jessika is earning her Masters degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Adolescent and Childhood Development at Southern Newhampshire University. She will also be dual enrolling in their MBA program in the new year. Jessika enjoys spending her free time riding her horse freckles or going to the beach with her dog dallas. Her ability to Identify patterns and problem areas, and implement effective solutions combined with her passion for improving the lives of those within her community, has led her to pursue organizational leadership within this sector. |
Danielle Shults, M.S., BCBA, QBA
Clinical Director - Northern California Danielle always had a goal of working with children, originally earning her Bachelor of Science in Human Biology from UC Merced to work in healthcare. Upon starting a job as a Behavior Technician, Danielle’s goals changed as her passion became promoting independence in the lives of children with Autism and their families. Danielle earned her Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis with a concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders from Drexel University and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Qualified Behavior Analyst. Danielle has moved up the Active Steps career ladder, starting as a supervisor and having the opportunity to help with Active Steps growth and development. Danielle continues to use her passion to ensure high quality services to clients and training to staff. In her free time, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family, caring for her curls, and doing anything Disney related. |
Cathy Arroyo, M.S., BCBA
Clinical Director - Southern California
Cathy's passion for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities began over a decade ago working in adult residential facilities. With a background in adult education and training, she already knew how underrepresented this community was, and she decided to gain more education in human behavior. After gaining a second master's degree, Cathy decided to pursue Applied Behavior Analysis, and began working in early intervention in 2012 as a Behavior Interventionist where she also participated in social game nights for the families she served. She became a supervisor in 2014 and facilitated parent training as well as monthly parent support groups. As she continued her education to become a BCBA, she gained her third Master's degree in teaching ABA and continued to work with individuals who were more severely impacted by their diagnosis and needed more support. Since then her passion has grown and she led social skills groups for ages 5-12, and became a Sibshops facilitator in 2019 to assist siblings of those who are diagnosed with a disability. As a BCBA, Cathy led in-home intervention during the COVID pandemic and also was a Manager of Behavior Services at Beacon Day School for Autism and Related Disorders overseeing elementary and adult transition programs. Cathy continues to be passionate about teaching others how to help people have the best quality of life they can have. There are no limits.
Clinical Director - Southern California
Cathy's passion for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities began over a decade ago working in adult residential facilities. With a background in adult education and training, she already knew how underrepresented this community was, and she decided to gain more education in human behavior. After gaining a second master's degree, Cathy decided to pursue Applied Behavior Analysis, and began working in early intervention in 2012 as a Behavior Interventionist where she also participated in social game nights for the families she served. She became a supervisor in 2014 and facilitated parent training as well as monthly parent support groups. As she continued her education to become a BCBA, she gained her third Master's degree in teaching ABA and continued to work with individuals who were more severely impacted by their diagnosis and needed more support. Since then her passion has grown and she led social skills groups for ages 5-12, and became a Sibshops facilitator in 2019 to assist siblings of those who are diagnosed with a disability. As a BCBA, Cathy led in-home intervention during the COVID pandemic and also was a Manager of Behavior Services at Beacon Day School for Autism and Related Disorders overseeing elementary and adult transition programs. Cathy continues to be passionate about teaching others how to help people have the best quality of life they can have. There are no limits.
Michael Reid Ph.D., Psy.D., QASP-D
Founding Director Michael is a New Zealander who has been living in the USA since 2012. He has clinical interests and specialties that include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Complex and Challenging Behavior and Psychopharmacology but to name a few. Becoming frustrated with the barriers to achieving quality service provision and observing a poor understanding within the workforce of evidence based practices, Michael has, in recent years, focused on workforce development and quality management systems using technology based solutions. |
Thomas McCool Ed.D.
Founding Director Tom has spent more than 30 years in the health and disability sector promoting quality programs and services for children and adults with special needs. Among other achievements, Tom has served as President and CEO of Eden Autism Services and Executive Director of Devereaux (Santa Barbara, CA). Tom has been awarded the prestigious Innovator of the Year Award from the Princeton Chamber of Commerce; and the Humanitarian of the Year Award from the New Jersey State Firemen’s Association. |
Administration & Finance
Lesly Preston
Human Resources Specialist With over 20 years of administrative and executive experience managing staff as well as daily operational activity, Lesly has always had a particular focus on customer care and service. Always working to advance her career and expand her skill set, she is scheduled to complete her Human Resource Certification which will add to an impressive list of professional skills and experience including personnel management / HR, payroll, scheduling and insurance and authorization processing but to name a few. |
Tania Vigil
Lead Administrative Coordinator Tania completed her first AA in Sociology and a second AA in Social and Behavioral Sciences. She is currently attending California State University Channel Islands to complete a BA in Sociology. Tania loves working with children and providing respite care for those families in need. One of her goals is to complete her Masters degree in Counseling and Pupil Personnel Services. In her free time Tania enjoys being outdoors, spending time with family and going to soccer games. |
Korrina Despain
Executive Assistant Korrina graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and Sociology, from Grand Canyon University in 2016. In 2020, she stumbled across Active Steps and became a Behavior Technician and Scheduler for services. The community and passion of the company and the work that they do, has inspired her to grow both with the company and academically. Korrina will be starting her Masters in Psychology with an emphasis in ABA in the Fall of 2021 at Capella University. Her goal is to become a BCBA . When she is not working, or doing school work, you can usually find her spending time with her husband and their three dogs (yes, three!), reading a book, attempting to keep her plants alive, or offroading in Moab, Utah. |
Maria Moncayo
Recruitment Maria Moncayo was born in Quito, Ecuador, and has lived in California for most of her life. Maria recently graduated with her Master's in Health Administration (MHA) and has worked for large and small organizations in the healthcare industry, as well as local government and community-based organizations. Maria also holds a BA degree from UC Santa Cruz in Community Studies with a minor in Latin America and Latino Studies. Maria's passions are in serving her community, children, and parents by providing effective tools to improve and positively impact the quality of care received. In her free time, Maria enjoys family time with her 2 daughters (8 and 10yrs), traveling, real estate, and learning from others. |
Angelica (Angie) Rios
Service Coordinator Angie has been working as a respite care provider since the beginning of 2020. When becoming part of the Active Steps team, she has embarked on a new journey as an ABA Behavior Technician and Scheduler. One of Angie's goals in life is to become a social worker. Angie spends most of her free time at the gym or hanging out at the beach and loves trying out new foods and spending time with her family and friends. |
Carla Sandoval
SR. Administrative Assistant Carla has been in the ABA field since 2020. She contributes 20 years of administration experience in the medical field. Carla is passionate about helping meet the needs of families and assists with her bilingual skills anytime she is needed. She has a soft spot for children and loves to contribute to their success to ensure growth and positive results. In her down time she loves to spend time with her 3 daughters, experiencing new things and just enjoying life. |
Ryan Tokeshi
Service Coordinator Ryan graduated from Cal State Fullerton with a B.A. in Psychology and Ethnic Studies. While going to school, Ryan interned as a Teacher’s Assistant and began working as a Behavioral Technician at Active Steps. Ryan is currently taking a gap year and is enjoying his time by watching tv, working out, and spending time with family and friends. One of his goals is to complete his Master’s degree in I/O psychology. He wants to use the skills he learned as a service coordinator to transition to a Human Resources position. |
Julissa Navarro
Service Coordinator Julissa received her bachelor’s degree in Human Developmental Sciences with a minor in Education Studies. She is passionate about the development of children, particularly from infancy through childhood. One of Julissa's career goals is to develop knowledge in the HR field to achieve a leadership role in that field. |
Orange County
Joseph Glorioso, BCBA
Board Certified Behavior Analyst Joseph's passion for helping individuals with disabilities started early when he volunteered as a special education teacher assistant at school. Joseph completed his Bachelors of Arts in Psychology at Vanguard University and began working in the ABA field in 2015. While working at Irvine Unified School District, Joseph worked as a supervisor in an autism specific class and attended National University to earn his Masters in Teaching with a specialization in ABA and subsequently passed his BCBA examination. Joseph enjoys watching and playing sports and spending quality time with friends and family. |
Jasmine Brennan, M.S. BCBA
Board Certified Behavior Analyst Jasmine has worked in ABA for 7 years in the home, school, and clinic settings. She attended undergrad at Cal State Long Beach where she received a BA in Psychology and got her first exposure to the wonderful world of ABA! Jasmine received her Master's of Science in ABA from National University in 2019. She has worked with clients from the ages of 18 months to 23 years old with varying diagnoses and functioning levels including Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Down Syndrome, and so many more. She loves working in a field where she is able to make a positive impact every single day, and knowing that we are making a difference in the lives of our clients and their families is what keeps me going. In the future, she hopes to open a small agency of her own or operate as a private BCBA. |
Samantha Brown, B.S.
Clinical Supervisor Shortly after obtaining her Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2020, Samantha discovered the field of Applied Behavior Analysis while working with young children as a behavior interventionist. She fell in love with the field, and changed her career path from Occupational Therapy to ABA, going on to pursue a Master of Behavior Analysis Practice and certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst at the Florida Institute of Technology. She is experienced in serving learners in a variety of settings, including private in-home services and public schools. Empowering others with tools to improve the quality of their lives through applied behavior analysis is her inspiration and calling. Samantha enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to live music, and traveling. |
Maria Bohra, B.S.
Clinical Supervisor Maria Bohra was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan. She did her MD from Sindh medical university. After moving to the US, she joined the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Louisville, KY. She moved to AZ and started a dental office where she was owner/manager for 15 years. Then she switched again to her own career path and passion and finished her Master's in Psychology from Grand Canyon University and her ABA sequence from Northern Arizona University. She is working towards accruing the necessary supervision hours required to sit for the BCBA exam. She has been in the field of ABA since 2018 in several settings such as schools as well as clinics. She is passionate about raising awareness for special education needs in third-world countries. She is affiliated with schools in Pakistan and in Africa where she trains teachers for special needs students. If time permits, she loves to travel and enjoy short drives with her son. |
Juan Victor Herrera, ABAT
SR. Lead Behavior Technician Victor began working in the field of ABA in 2019. He is currently pursuing his B.A in Psychology and plans on furthering his studies in the field of ABA. Through ABA, he is committed to assisting his clients with ASD, and other disabilities, in achieving independence and get closer towards reaching their aspirations. Victor currently provides ABA therapy and Parent education for Spanish speaking families. He is also a Lead BT for the OC area. During his free time, he enjoys hiking, watching sports,cooking, and spending quality time with his family and pup. |
Afshaan Fatema, BCBA
Board Certified Behavior Analyst I'm a mom and a BCBA, and I love being both. I very much enjoy being with my kids and participate in various activities with them. I equally enjoy working with my clients and see them learn, grow, and get closer to independence. I feel like it is a blessing to be able to make a difference in the lives of others. While I see myself working as a BCBA in a smaller capacity at this time, I do aspire to work as a clinical director in the field at a later time. |
Ventura County
Amanda Ford M.S., QASP-S, BCBA
Behavior Analyst Amanda is a graduate from California Lutheran University with a Bachelors in Psychology and is currently studying for her Master’s Degree in Behavioral Psychology from Pepperdine University. She is a Board Certified Autism Technician and an avid Advocate for Autism Awareness. She was inspired to enter the field of ABA by her little sister l, who has a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. |
Ashleigh Besamat, BCAT
SR. Lead Behavior Technician Ashleigh started working in the field of ABA in 2018. She has completed AA degrees in psychology and the social and behavioral sciences, and is currently pursuing her B.A. in psychology at California State University Channel Islands. Ashleigh plans to further her education within the field of ABA and is currently Lead Behavior Technician in Ventura County. |
Christine Irvine, B.A.
Clinical Supervisor Christine has been working with Active Steps as a behavior technician for about a year and a half. In May of 2021 Christine received her bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Studies, and has since started working towards her Master's degree at Arizona State University. She worked in a classroom as a para-educator in a visually structured classroom for kindgardeners-2nd graders with autism for several years. In the classroom, she was introduced to ABA. Between working in the classroom and her clinical experience, she has been inspired to continue her education in the field. When not working Christine enjoys traveling, preferably somewhere with sunshine, beautiful scenery and reading a book. During her free time you can find me at the gym or doing yoga. |
Angel Rojas, M.S., BCBA
Behavior Analyst Angel started in ABA as a behavior interventionist in 2013 after receiving his bachelors in Psychology from John F. Kennedy University. 3 years later, Angel began working in the mental health field for about 5 years were he provided crisis services and behavior management to young children, teens, and their families who suffer from depression, anxiety, as well as some of them having autism or ADHD. During that time, Angel pursued a masters in clinical counseling, however he realized that it was not the field for him and decided to focus in ABA. He began his masters degree though National University and joined Active Steps in 2019/2020. A year and a half later, He received my masters became certified as a BCBA and now seek to continue working towards providing services to the Spanish Speaking community as much as he can. During his free time, you can find Angel reading books, spending time with him family and pets, or meditating somewhere in nature. |
Alec Brum, M.A.
Clinical Supervisor Alec graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2020 with a B.A. in Sociology. During his senior year, he got a job as a BT and has been in the field ever since. He is currently obtaining his M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University in pursuit of his BCBA certification. On his off time, he enjoys hiking, going to the beach and boogie boarding. |
Ruby Mejia, M.A.
Clinical Supervisor Ruby graduated from CSUCI with a B.A in Sociology. She started her ABA journey as a Behavioral Technician in 2020. Ruby continued her interest in this field in a school setting as a para educator. Which eventually led to attend National University to earn a M.A in ABA. Ruby's goal is to become a BCBA and continue learning and growing in this field. When she is not working, she spends my time with her son, traveling, and being wherever her family is. |
Inland Empire
Cynthia Ramos, M.S.
Clinical Supervisor Soon after graduating from the University of California Riverside, Cynthia discovered the field of ABA where she began working as a Behavior Therapist in 2017. Cynthia also graduated with a Master's degree in ABA from National University in 2020 and is now working towards her BCBA certification. She has gained rewarding experiences working in different settings including schools, homes and clinics. Cynthia is passionate about serving individuals and families by helping them to reach their full potential while improving their quality of life. |
Danielle Sage, M.S. RBT
Clinical Supervisor Danielle graduated with B.S. in Human Resources in 2016 from Cal State East Bay and a M.S. in Applied Behavioral Analysis in September 2021 from National University. Danielle is currently pursuing her BCBA certification. Danielle began her journey into the world of ABA in 2018 as a behavioral technician and worked her way to becoming a Registered Behavioral Technician before pursing her BCBA certification. Danielle has worked in home, clinic and school settings helping her clients develop the tools and encouragement to become more independent. Danielle promotes and open door policy and is willing to always go the extra mile to help her team. |
Qunieca Robertson
Lead Behavior Technician Qunieca has been in the field of helping individuals with disabilities for five years now. She started with an opportunity assisting individuals at an adult facility and then at an adult day program. Qunieca has worked with different age groups and different developmental disabilities, including her niece who is on the autism spectrum. She has been providing ABA services with Active-steps for a year. Qunieca is currently pursuing her undergraduate studies in child development to graduate upcoming spring 2023 with the plan to further her education in special education. |
Matthew Bernard
Clinical Supervisor Matthew graduated from Hope International University in spring of 2021 with a double major in intercultural studies and psychology, he is currently at Pepperdine in the MFT program with a specialized focus in trauma therapy. After Pepperdine, Matthew plans to pursue his PsyD at Capella university. In his free time Matthew loves to read and train Brazilian jiujitsu. he has held a number of roles in this field including working with Best Buddies International as well as being a BT for California Psycare. |
HIGH DESERT
Anthony Robinson, MEd., P.P.S.
Clinical Supervisor
Anthony completed his undergraduate studies in Psychology at the California State, San Bernardino and moved to Virginia to complete his Masters in Education and his PreK-12th Grade School Counseling, at the Norfolk State University. Anthony's goal is to become School Counselor and attain a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. He has worked in ABA for three years, one year of which in a supervisory capacity. Anthony's hobbies include personal fitness, mentorship, trying new and different types of food, and watching movies.
Clinical Supervisor
Anthony completed his undergraduate studies in Psychology at the California State, San Bernardino and moved to Virginia to complete his Masters in Education and his PreK-12th Grade School Counseling, at the Norfolk State University. Anthony's goal is to become School Counselor and attain a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. He has worked in ABA for three years, one year of which in a supervisory capacity. Anthony's hobbies include personal fitness, mentorship, trying new and different types of food, and watching movies.
Central Valley-North
Amber Shults, M.S., BCBA
Board Certified Behavior Analyst Amber graduated with a B.S. in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior and a B.A. in Psychology from UC Davis, then went on to get her M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis from National University. Amber found the field of ABA in 2017 after completing an internship at the UC Davis MIND Institute where she loved working with people diagnosed ASD, Fragile X, and Down Syndrome. She has clinical experience working with clients ranging from ages three to 27 years-old. In her free time, Amber loves to travel, attempt arts and crafts, and pet every dog she sees. |
Amber Sanchez, M.A.
Clinical Supervisor Amber's first introduction into ABA was when she got a job in college as a BT in 2017. Amber grew a passion to work in this field and enjoys making a difference in children’s lives in any small way that she can. Amber graduated with a BA in Psychology, Family Studies Minor from California State University, Northridge in 2018. Amber continued to work two jobs in the ABA field as a BT and instructional aide working with infants with autism program with the school district. Amber graduated from Arizona State University in 2021 with a MA in Special Education-Applied Behavior Analysis. Right now, Amber is currently working on accruing supervisor hours to sit for the BCBA exam. |
Kuldeep Kaur Gill, B.A.
Clinical Supervisor Kuldeep Kaur Gill is currently a student at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology where she is gaining knowledge and appropriate skills to pursue her dream to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Kuldeep has been in the Applied Behavior Analysis field ever since April of 2019. She finds this line of work to be both challenging and full of excitement. Working with individuals who struggle with everyday skills can be difficult at times but definitely rewarding to see the progress slowly unfold right before your eyes as you help them ascertain the tools needed to navigate the world. |
Lorena Govea
Lead Behavior Technician Lorena grew up in Garden Grove, CA and moved to Turlock in 2019 to attend California State University, Stanislaus. She is currently working on her B.A. in Communication Studies. In 2021, Lorena began her journey as a Behavior Technician and has since been able to gain experience and a passion for the field. She enjoys seeing the progress her clients make and helping families in her community. |
Roberto Berber, M.S.
Clinical Supervisor
Roberto began working in ABA in 2018 while completing his first year at California State University Sacramento, graduating with a BA in psychology in 2020. After this, Roberto enrolled in National University where he completed his Master's program in 2022 to attain an MS in Applied Behavior Analysis. Currently, Roberto is working towards accruing the necessary supervision hours required to sit for the BCBA exam. In his free time, Roberto enjoys hiking and exploring new restaurants in his area.
Clinical Supervisor
Roberto began working in ABA in 2018 while completing his first year at California State University Sacramento, graduating with a BA in psychology in 2020. After this, Roberto enrolled in National University where he completed his Master's program in 2022 to attain an MS in Applied Behavior Analysis. Currently, Roberto is working towards accruing the necessary supervision hours required to sit for the BCBA exam. In his free time, Roberto enjoys hiking and exploring new restaurants in his area.
