ABA / Behavior Therapists

Alisa Slatin Rohdie, M.A., BCBA, LBA

I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and one of the co-founders of The Waverly Group. Early in my career, I was fortunate to be trained as a behavior analyst from some of the leading experts in the field. I took that experience and combined it with my undergraduate degree and training as a Speech-Language therapist and my graduate degree in Counseling Psychology to create an eclectic, yet informed, approach to working with children. Today at Waverly, I direct all ABA and Behavior therapy, provide school consultation and evaluations, and work with parents to understand and manage challenging behaviors and complex learning issues in children. I work with both typically developing children and special needs children. Waverly Group is my dream come true. I work with smart, passionate, talented people everyday to help improve the lives of children. How lucky I feel.

Christina DeChello, M.A., BCBA, LBA

I am the Director of ABA services. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Studies from The University of Alabama and my Master of Arts in School Psychology from Fairfield University. Throughout my studies in Alabama, I worked with children with Autism and various developmental delays at the Child Development Research Center and the Rise School. I have previously worked as a private ABA instructor, providing one-on-one early intervention therapy, acting as a shadow for children in school and camp settings, providing parent training, and consulting to teachers and other educators. I completed my board certification coursework for Behavior Analysis from Florida Institute of Technology. I feel very lucky to be able to say that I love what I do. I get an indescribable satisfaction from seeing children succeed, and I take pride in providing support to the parents and professionals with whom I work.  Roll tide!

Joyce Li, M.A., BCBA, LBA

I am the Clinical Director of the ABA program. I began my career in applied behavior analysis working with the youngest population, from birth to age 3. I was inspired and heartened by the progress these young learners made in social, play, communication, and school readiness from receiving early intervention. I have worked as an ABA therapist providing early intervention and direct instruction to young toddlers, preschoolers, and school aged children with autism and other learning disabilities. I received my master's degree in Psychology from Southern Connecticut State University and my board certification in Behavior Analysis in 2017. I currently continue to provide direct service to children in homes, schools, and clinical settings and consult with families and teachers to develop skill acquisition programs and behavior intervention plans. I love working with children and seeing the difference ABA therapy can make in their lives and in their families' lives!

Debbie Fixell, MSW, BCBA, LBA

Over the past thirteen years I have provided early intervention and parent training for the birth-to-three population in addition to working with preschool and elementary school-aged children. I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Social Worker and received my Bachelor's Degree in Art and Psychology at The New School, where I also studied Creative Arts Therapy. After I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from Hunter College, I began volunteering as an Arts Therapist at a small ABA clinic in Brooklyn. I was soon hired as an ABA therapist, obtaining my BCBA in 2014. In addition to providing direct therapy with children, I am currently serving as a supervisor to behavior therapists and registered behavior technicians – conducting initial assessments, creating and overseeing individualized program development, and providing parent training and school consultations. I take a holistic approach to ABA, engaging children through play and social connection. I am always learning and growing as a therapist and love collaborating with the amazing and talented therapists at The Waverly Group.

Fun Fact

As someone who was born and raised in Manhattan, I didn't get my driver's license until I turned 30!

In my spare time

I love spending time with my children, painting, and practicing yoga.

Jill Sherman, MA, LMSW

Over the last 18 years I have worked with children with special needs and their families in several different capacities. Following my time at the University of Michigan, I moved to Tahoe, California where I worked with the adaptive ski school, special education classrooms, and outdoor education programs. While in California I began working as a behavioral therapist and I knew immediately that I had found my career. I moved back to the East Coast to pursue a master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Columbia University. I currently design and implement individual and group academic programs and behavioral interventions, consult to schools, and provide parent training and support.

Andrea DelGaudio, LCSW

I am the clinical director of the Behavior Connections Clinic at Waverly. I am a clinical social worker licensed to practice in New York and Connecticut. Following my undergraduate studies in Psychology at Fairfield University, I continued on to earn my masters at New York University’s Silver School of Social Work. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I worked as an ABA therapist. I specialize in working with children with anxiety, ADHD, and other emotional and behavioral challenges. My approach incorporates both play and behavior therapy. I’ve seen firsthand the incredible power of play. Whether it’s non-directive play, directive play, projects, or board games, the play possibilities are endless and the impact is profound. I believe that a combination of play therapy with behavior-based treatments is incredibly effective and the best work happens when I meet each client where they are, as each child serves as a guide to which modality fits them best. I have training in applied behavior analysis, CBT, ACT, OCD in children and adolescents, Theraplay and trauma informed therapeutic work with children and families. I’ve been passionate about this work for as long as I can remember and I am dedicated to making a lasting impact on all of my clients at The Waverly Group.

Fun Fact

My birthday is on Halloween!

in my spare time

I love to take dance classes, read great books, eat delicious food, and spend time with my family and friends! 

Samantha Leichtner, BA, RBT

I graduated from the Pennsylvania State University with a major in Rehabilitation and Human services and a minor in Psychology. I first came to Waverly as a summer intern and again for my senior internship for my bachelor’s degree. I am a Registered Behavior Technician and have experience working with children and adolescents as a school and camp shadow, direct instructor, and sports coach. Currently, I am pursuing my Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis at Manhattanville College.I enjoy designing programs alongside BCBAs to systematically support growth, development and independence, and I feel incredibly lucky to work with children and families. I am passionate about ABA and love to create fun and positive environments for all the children I work with. In the future, I hope to pursue my BCBA.

FUN FACT

I have a cat and a dog and love animals!

in my spare time

I love to cook and bake and spend time with family and friends.

Maddie English, BA, RBT

I am a Registered Behavior Technician and currently pursuing my Master of Science in Social Work (MSW) from Columbia University. Before joining Waverly, I graduated from Bucknell University with my bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Education with a concentration in Support Services, and Spanish. During my undergraduate studies, I became increasingly interested in the field of applied behavior analysis and began implementing behavior therapeutic services in clinic, home, camp, and social group settings. I enjoy working with all children to support them and their developmental and emotional growth. I am so grateful to be able to help children build their independence and collaborate with a great team of professionals!

fun fact

I am an Irish citizen and grew up Irish dancing, but I have never been to Ireland.

in my spare time

I enjoy traveling, going to the beach, skiing, dancing, and spending time with my family, friends, and dog Huckleberry!

Hadley Stine, BA, RBT

I graduated from Gettysburg College with a degree in psychology. During my undergraduate career I had the opportunity to work in a developmental psychology lab, as well as to conduct my own research on the effects of imaginative play on empathy in preschoolers, and intern for a youth mental health initiative. These experiences enhanced my interest in the developing mind and cultivated a desire to work with young children professionally. At Waverly, I have provided support in camp and school settings and facilitated both one-on-one and group sessions. I love all the children with whom I have the pleasure of working and am so grateful to be receiving training at an amazing practice like The Waverly Group.

fun fact

I have kept a written list of every book I have ever read that I started when I was seven years old!

In my spare time

I like to travel to new places, spend time with friends, read, and journal.

Jaydel Hernandez, BA, RBT

I graduated from the University of Connecticut with a double major in Psychology and Human Development and Family Sciences.  Working with children has always been a passion of mine, and I enjoy getting to build connections with children and their families. During my time as an undergraduate, I was a research assistant at the UConn Child Language Lab where I had the opportunity to develop my own NIDCD-funded research project studying Theory of Mind and language in children with Autism. Conducting this research project allowed me to understand more about the struggles children may face in the course of their development and how I can provide support. I’m looking forward to working in the collaborative environment at Waverly Group and can’t wait to grow my skills through training alongside an incredible team of professionals. 

Fun Fact

I taught myself how to embroider! 

In My spare time

I enjoy cooking, journaling, spending time with my family and family, listening to podcasts, and watching my favorite shows! 

Jenn Ball, BS, RBT

I graduated from Syracuse University where I received my bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Science, specializing in Psychology.  I have always been fascinated by children - how they think, behave, and perceive the world around them. During my time at Syracuse, I worked in a research lab where I learned how to conduct and execute research studies which enhanced my ability to use analytical thinking and collect data.  Additionally, I also had the privilege of volunteering at a local elementary school where I provided emotional, social, and academic support to students facing challenges. I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to make a difference in children’s lives. I am passionate about ensuring that all children can grow, learn, and thrive based on individualized plans tailored to their unique needs. In the future, I hope to pursue my doctorate in psychology!

Fun Fact

I love traveling and exploring new cultures and two of my favorite trips were to Italy and Israel!

In my spare time

I enjoy watching TV and movies, spending time with family and friends, and going on hikes!

Alexa Greco, BA, RBT

I am currently pursuing my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Fairfield University. Before joining Waverly, I graduated from Boston College with a major in Applied Psychology and Human Development – concentrating in Mental Health Services and Special Education – and a minor in Sociology. During my time as an undergraduate, I was a Crisis Counselor for the Crisis Textline where I risk-assessed texters and helped them move from a moment of distress to a cooler calm. I also worked alongside social workers at a homeless shelter to build rapport with children and their families, understand their struggles, and formulate action plans to end their cycle of homelessness. At Waverly, I am so appreciative to be working alongside wonderful professionals to help each child grow into their own person. 

Fun Fact

I have been an equestrian since I was four years old and have two National Championships under my belt.

In my spare time

I enjoy exercising, riding horses, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. 

Sarah Hoyt, BA, RBT

I graduated from Elon University with a bachelor's degree in psychology and minors in criminal justice studies and sociology. I am currently pursuing my Masters of Social Work at Sacred Heart University. I gained my RBT working at an ABA clinic in North Carolina while earning my undergraduate degree. I have experience working in the clinical setting here at Waverly as well as working as a camp shadow. I enjoy working with children and supporting them to reach their goals, helping them reach their full potential. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow at The Waverly Group as well as work with so many amazing kiddos! 

Fun Fact

I recently traveled to Spain and Morocco on a study abroad program!

in my spare time

I enjoy spending time with family and friends, spending time outside and listening to music or podcasts. 

Jenna Funkey, BA

I graduated from Chapman University with a major in Psychology and minors in Political Science and Disability Studies. During my time as an undergrad student I was fortunate enough to work in an after-school program in Orange, California with young students supporting their social, emotional, and behavioral needs. There I learned a great deal about the diverse set of needs students have and how best to support them. I’ve also spent the past four years working in an arts and crafts program for a local summer camp here in Connecticut which is where my love for working with kids and my determination to pursue a career in childhood development and support truly blossomed! My experiences as an undergrad culminated in a thesis project centered on how family dynamics and parenting impact children in young adulthood. I’m deeply passionate about the multifaceted nature of child welfare and development and plan to pursue a masters degree in clinical social work in the near future. I’m so excited to be a part of the incredible ABA team at Waverly and work together to support students in such a caring environment! 

fun fact

I was born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa until I immigrated to the US in middle school! 

in my spare time

I love to read! One of my favorite authors of all time is Michael Morpurgo, a children’s novelist favorite of mine! 

Mugsy

I joined The Waverly Group in September 2022. I love my new career as a thera-bunny and enjoy spending my days meeting children, getting pets, hopping in the office and eating bananas.

Fun fact

I can spin and ring a bell for food!

In my spare time

I like to hop after my cat siblings.