Melissa R, BCBA, MA
Lead Behavior Analyst
Blue Bird Day Employee Since 2021
Credentials and Certifications
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst
- CPR/First aid certified
- Nonviolent Crisis Prevention Intervention Certified
Clinical Expertise
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Applied Behavior Analysis
- Pediatrics
- AAC devices and PECS in ABA
- Challenging Behavior Reduction
- Functional Communication Training
My Story
After moving to Chicago in 2017, I wanted to transition into working in pediatrics. My previous experience in the UK had been with adults with autism, challenging behaviors and mental health as an occupational therapist. I knew moving here was the best time to make the transition to pediatrics. I have always loved working with clients/patients and supporting them to be as independent as they can and to reach their full potential. I fell in love with Blue Bird Day’s program and the ability to have all therapists under one roof collaborating as one team to meet the needs of the clients and their families. I quickly became interested in ABA after observing sessions with BCBA’S and decided to become a behavior technician providing ABA to clients at Blue Bird Day. Whilst working as a behavior technician, I also completed my Master’s program in ABA and became a BCBA in 2021. Everyday working with the clients reminds me of why I chose the path I did: supporting and guiding parents and clients to reach their goals and be involved with peers, therapists, and their community is truly amazing to see!
My Advocacy
My Education
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis,
Ball State University
Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy,
Queen Margaret University
My Blue Bird Day
Blue Bird Day has always been a place where multi-disciplinary team working is so apparent. I had never experienced such a place where everyone works together so closely with other professions and the families and I love to be a part of it. Blue Bird Day has always provided opportunities for me to grow in my career and support others to do the same throughout the company.
My Professional Goals
- Become an ABA Masters level student practicum supervisor.
Blue Bird Day
Blue Bird Day fosters socialization, sensory regulation, and pre-academic learning in children ages 2–7 years in therapeutic rotations that simulate preschool and kindergarten settings. Our compassionate therapists practice a relationship-based and family-centered approach, provide parent training, and collaborate on goals and individualized intensive treatment plans for your child.
We believe in a collaborative and multi-disciplinary team approach to therapy. A team of occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, dietitians, developmental therapists, behavioral therapists, physical therapists, and therapeutic assistants are created for each child to ensure child and family are fully supported and the best possible results are achieved.
Options for individualized, group and virtual therapy sessions are available as well.
Want to learn more or you have a specific question? Feel free to connect with us here!