Nicholas’ Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Nicholas is a Registered Behavior Therapist at our Winona Lake center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since July of 2023. He is currently a student at Ball State University, studying for a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis. Nicholas loves spending time with his family and his dog. He is happily married and has a daughter.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I applied to LAC because I was searching for a career that allowed me to serve people and focus on the patient more than on scheduling and travel.

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part of working at Lighthouse is the willingness of coworkers to help provide support as well as the guidance from trainers and supervisors towards the goals of making me a better therapist. 

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My experience with LAC has been what only could be deemed as concentrated. It has been concentrated with learning, growing, and help all with the focus of helping me reach our goals. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

One of my favorite memories comes from a learner that started the same time I started working at LAC. It felt like we had a connection based on our relative starting point of this part of our life’s adventure. We ended up working together quite often and paired quite well. One day during lunch, this learner decided they were not hungry and wanted to go play. We made our way back out to the playroom from the cafeteria, and I asked them what they wanted to do by presenting the manding board. The learner pointed to the play icon and said ‘swing’ with their soft voice and we proceeded to the swing. Once at the swing, the learner for the first time since we both started at LAC began singing to themselves while swinging. It was not for attention or for anyone around but simply because they enjoyed singing. I was reminded that day just how amazing we are as humans. This amazing little person decided at that moment to sing their own song and allow me the honor to hear it. LAC is a place you can help people learn to communicate. It helps people to learn how they can take action in their life and be heard.  

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Lighthouse is an amazing place to work. Be prepared to learn and also be open to instruction. Trainers and supervisor will inform you of what you need to do to be the best RBT. 

Laura’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Laura is a Lead Registered Behavior Therapist at our Goshen center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since December of 2022. Prior to her current role, she was a level 1 RBT, then a level 2 RBT, working her way up to a Lead Therapist though LAC’s Level-Up Program! She graduated from Trine University with a degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice. Laura is a dog mom who loves to knit, read, and garden.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I applied at Lighthouse because I have been interested in Autism Spectrum Disorders since I substitute taught in the Special Education department and loved every minute of it. I thought that Lighthouse would be a great place to get my feet wet so to speak.

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

I really love working with all the learners. They are all so unique in their own ways and figuring out how to turn their individual motivations into teachable moments is really rewarding for me.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

I really like working at an ABA center that focuses on the employees’ well-being. Mental health fields of work can be mentally draining for employees and Lighthouse really focuses on making sure we have help if we need it.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memory at Lighthouse was the time a learner’s face lit up at seeing me because they were excited to work with me. It’s just so great to see the joy we can add to the day.

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Just apply! You never know a job until you start and that’s the 1st step.

Carley’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Carley is a Clinical Apprentice at our Springfield center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since November of 2020. Prior to her current role, she was a Senior Therapist and RBT Trainer. She graduated from Kaskaskia Community College and Eastern Illinois University with a degree in Psychology. While Carley doesn’t have any kids herself, she likes to think of the learners at Lighthouse as a part of her family. She does have a cat named Milo, who is quite a handful himself. Some of Carley’s favorite hobbies include crocheting, reading, going on walks, and playing her switch (Animal Crossing is her favorite).  

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I originally applied to Lighthouse wanting to see what ABA consists of. I had never heard of it before but was thinking of doing something with play therapy and a friend suggest looking into ABA. Thank goodness I did! ABA and Lighthouse have been my forever home. 

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Lighthouse Autism Center has created new experiences for me. I’ve gained new friends who seem to be like family and of course, the biggest one, Lighthouse has encouraged me to go back to school to become a BCBA. I think my favorite part about working for Lighthouse is seeing the learners and how they learn something that you helped shape or teach. You get to physically see the change that you have made in their lives and how important you have become in their lives. Sometimes the learners stay for a few months and sometimes it’s a few years but either way I know I have been able to be a memory in their lives.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My experience here has been amazing, of course you have your off days, but this job is something I always look forward to. When I’m off, all I can think about is, “What is the next day going to bring for me?” or “What did those crazy, fun-loving, and big-hearted learners do while I was gone?” Every day is different and that’s what keeps me going. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

Goodness there are just so many, I guess one of my favorite memories here at Springfield Lighthouse is having one of our learners come into the center not wanting to sit at tables and flopping on the floor every time that she didn’t have access to her favorite toys. She has now recently been able to walk to different rooms, wait for her teacher, vocalize what she is wanting in two-word phrases, and is playing with new peers constantly. I tell you what, I am oh so very proud of her. Also, who can forget those crazy times at the South Bend Cubs games that happen every year (Shout out to the Granger Family).  

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My biggest advice would be to treat every day like a new bright day! Yes, you are going to have some hard ones, come into some hard decisions, and sometimes the wrong one is made but learn from those! Know that whatever happened was just ‘at the moment’ so that you can move on and be the best you can be. Be open to your supporters and just remember, “You’ve got this! Keep Moving Forward”

Alena’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Alena is a Clinical Apprentice at our Niles center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since August of 2021. Prior to her current role, she was an Assistant/RBT Trainer. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor’s in biopsychology, cognition and neuroscience with a focus in pre-med. She has a sweet and energetic golden-doodle named Gretchen that she loves to spend time with. Alena also loves reading, going to K-POP concerts and playing the piano in her free time. 

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I applied to Lighthouse because I was taking a gap year before applying to medical school and I thought learning more about the autism spectrum would help me understand and expand my knowledge so I could better help future patients. I ended up falling in love with ABA and autism during my time as a therapist and decided to change my career path to stay in the field of ABA. 

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part of working for Lighthouse is the opportunity to be creative and individualize services for each learner. I love that the goal is to enable growth specialized to each learner while finding the fun in every day. I love being able to continuously learn new things while building bonds with co-workers and learners. 

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

I would describe my experience working with Lighthouse as optimistic, enlightening and rewarding. There have been challenging times but they have all been learning opportunities that have helped me grow in both my professional and personal goals. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

One of my favorite memories is graduating the first learner I worked with. Many people were concerned with this client not being ready for school by the date they were graduating but once they started transitioning to school, they did so well that we graduated them a month early! It was bittersweet but so comforting and rewarding to know that they were ready even sooner than we anticipated. It was also a good reminder that it’s good to stay optimistic and expect the best from all our learners, no matter the circumstance. 

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

If anybody is interested in a career at Lighthouse I would make sure that they know that it can be difficult and challenging but if their heart is in the work and they are wanting to change lives, it is definitely worth it. 

Sydney’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Sydney is the Executive Administrative Assistant and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since January of 2022. She graduated from Valparaiso University in 2018 with a Bachelor’s in English. She also minored in Spanish and music performance. Her favorite things to do outside of work are to read, cycle, play the flute, cheer on the Chicago White Sox, and spend time with her dog, Luna.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

It has always been very important to me to be a part of an organization that has a strong tie to the community and that strives to provide resources to the underserved. When I came across an administrative position with Lighthouse, I jumped at the opportunity. I had a strong feeling that I could be a good fit for the organization and Lighthouse could be a great fit for me!

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part about working at Lighthouse is that every day is different! My position requires me to wear a lot of different hats, and this allows me to learn something new every day. Even though I do not work on the clinical side of the organization, I still get to learn about the clinical operations and familiarize myself with how the organization serves our learners. I love that I get to broaden my skills with different projects and research opportunities. I also appreciate getting to work with the Executive Team as they all push me to become a versatile assistant.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

I would describe my experience working for Lighthouse as fast-paced, challenging, and rewarding. I’ve experienced great collaboration between departments and can always find someone willing to help me succeed or point me in the right direction.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memory so far was getting to shadow a therapist during my first week. It was meaningful to get to see firsthand the services that I would support in my role on the learner support side of the organization, and the learners were so sweet. The bright, playful spaces of our centers are always uplifting to see and experience. I’ve also really enjoyed visiting some of the newly opened centers.

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

If any position with LAC interests you, go for it! So many people on our team are willing to support you and help you succeed in a role at Lighthouse. There are also so many opportunities for growth and advancement. If you’re looking for a rewarding career that will challenge you and allow you to serve your community, Lighthouse is the perfect place for you. 

Meet Lighthouse Autism Center’s Staff Spotlight of the Month: Kiah

Kiah is a Registered Behavior Technician Trainer at our Columbus Center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since December of 2021. She graduated from Purdue University Columbus with a Bachelors degree in Psychology. Kiah enjoys yoga, hiking, and spending time with her dog, Charlie.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I had previously worked as a RBT and was not actively in the ABA field when I applied to Lighthouse. I missed the field and felt drawn back to ABA, so I applied to Lighthouse and I am glad I came back to ABA.

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

I like the focus on naturalist teaching and the Fusion® model of incorporating speech therapy into ABA, but the kids are my favorite part about working at Lighthouse. From seeing their growth to running around playing with them and bringing my inner child alive, they are the best part. Working for Lighthouse is a very different experience than the typical 9 to 5. It is playful, fast paced, challenging, and rewarding.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memories are from Fun Friday activities. I love seeing the kids be kids and express their excitement in so many different ways.  

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Some days will be tricky. The tricky days are left at the center, the feelings don’t follow us home and it’s not personal. Stick around to see the progress the kids make and it will be worth it. 

Meet Lighthouse Autism Center’s Staff Spotlight of the Month: Katie

Katie is a Registered Behavior Technician Trainer at our Kalamazoo East Center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since April of 2022. She graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelors degree in Human Biology. Katie enjoys Yoga, hiking, making jewelry, reading, and spending time with her five nephews and two nieces who keep her on her toes.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I wanted to make a positive impact on my community. I was already working in the world of ABA in Grand Rapids. I was looking for an opportunity to grow, and Lighthouse was/is the most perfect fit. 

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center is my co-workers, the positive work environment, but most importantly THE KIDS!! My experience at Lighthouse has been nothing but great. I have felt supported, encouraged, and given ample feedback in order to grow into the RBT Trainer I have become. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

There are so many!! My all time favorite though would be running music groups and watching all of the kiddos have a great time and dance their hearts out.

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Working with kiddos is not always easy, they have big emotions just like we do, and it may be difficult to communicate how they are feeling. Approach every situation with patience and compassion. Some days will be tough, however, the most rewarding part is witnessing hard work pay off when a kiddo is able to independently finish a 5 piece puzzle, or independently request an item using a full sentence, or independently play a board game from start to finish with a peer. Those wins make all of the long days worth it.

Meet Lighthouse Autism Center’s Staff Spotlight of the Month: Natalia

Natalia is a Registered Behavior Technician at our Castleton Center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since July of 2022. She graduated from Butler University with a Bachelors in Organizational Communication and Leadership. Natalia loves dancing and originally came to Indiana from Florida on a dance scholarship at Butler University!

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I applied at Lighthouse Autism Center because I love working with kids and seeing them grow! It’s been so exciting seeing them accomplish different tasks.  

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part about working at Lighthouse is meeting the different kids and learning all about them. I have enjoyed every second working with the Lighthouse staff, BCBAs and the Senior Therapists who have all made it so special. They are always there for you when you have questions. Each day I’m excited to go into work and see what my learner and I accomplish.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memory is working with Senior Therapists Farris and Katie when I first started training. They made me feel so welcomed and taught me everything I know today. I am so thankful for them.

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

I would advise any future workers for Lighthouse to always ask questions! There is so much to learn and the staff here is always there to help you! 

Meet Lighthouse Autism Center’s Staff Spotlight of the Month: Tayler

Tayler is a Client Support and Diagnostic Coordinator at Lighthouse Autism Center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since October of 2022. She previously graduated with a bachelors degree from Western Michigan University, double majoring in Criminal Justice and Sociology. Tayler is a mother of one daughter and a son on the way. She enjoys exercising, listening to music, traveling, and going on walks with her family.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I applied at Lighthouse because working with children with autism interested me. It was something that I felt like I would enjoy and would learn a lot from. 

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part of working for Lighthouse Autism Center is that I get to work with parents on the enrollment process and see learners start at our centers, getting the help that they need. I work in diagnostic testing and it’s amazing to see how many families we are helping.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My experience working for Lighthouse has been great so far. I like working for a company that helps so many families. The people I work with are also great people and are doing great things. 

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My advice for those wanting to work for Lighthouse Autism Center is give your best every day with a great attitude and smile.

Meet Maranda, Lighthouse Autism Center’s Staff Spotlight February 2023

Maranda is a Registered Behavior Therapist Trainer at our Decatur center. She previously worked as an Assistant Trainer and started as a Registered Behavior Technician. Maranda has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since October of 2022. As a mother of two, she has always enjoyed working with kids. Maranda enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new areas, camping, and her two guinea pigs, Harry and Lloyd.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

Working with kids has always been a passion of mine, and learning to understand the functions of behavior intrigues me, so combining the two really drew me in to apply for my position at Lighthouse Autism Center. There is so much creative freedom in working as an ABA therapist. Each client learns in their own unique way, and I love helping them discover that; particularly, using arts and crafts, sand volcanoes, bubbles, and singing.

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Working with Lighthouse has provided me with, what feels like, infinite resources on applied behavior analysis and the intricacies of behavior. I know if I have a question, my supervisors and BCBA’s, Katie Ingram and Madeline Fletchall, are readily available. Training at the Champaign center was incredible, and I am grateful for everyone who shared their experience, knowledge, and support with me.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memory is shortly after I’d transferred to the Decatur center from Champaign. A client slowed his swing in front of me, looked my way, signed “more” and very clearly vocalized the word “more” after working on requests for wants and needs for a few days. I am so proud of him, and all of my clients, every single day.

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

If you’re considering a career at Lighthouse, my advice is to apply. These kids have a lot to teach you! 

Halle is the January 23 Lighthouse Autism Center Staff Spotlight

Meet Lighthouse Autism Center’s Staff Spotlight of the Month: Halle

Halle is a Registered Behavior Therapist at our Avon center. She has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since March of 2022. She is working towards her associates degree in Psychology from College of the Canyons located in Los Angeles. Halle recently got married and has two rescue pit-bulls. She was born and raised in LA and lived in Charlotte, North Carolina for 2 years before moving to Brownsburg, Indiana in March. Halle is very active in the drag racing community (NHRA) as her husband and his whole family work at John Force Racing.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

When I first moved from North Carolina I was looking for a job where I would have a lot of room to grow. One of my brothers was in an accident when he was little which caused a lot of neurological issues. I always volunteered in his class rooms growing up and loved getting to know all the kiddos! I knew I wanted a job where I could help kiddos learn and become the best versions of themselves and Lighthouse was the perfect fit! 

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My experience has been amazing so far, I have the best pod that has given me friends that I will have for life, and for that I am truly grateful! There are no bad days when you love what you do! It’s truly a great feeling that we are all working towards the same goal and everyone is equally passionate about all our kiddos! I would also like to thank my BCBA Amanda Allbee and my Senior Therapist Melissa Brosseau, without them I wouldn’t have the knowledge and skills that have today! 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

One of my favorite memories from working at Lighthouse would have to be when one of our more nonverbal kiddos came in one day and after months of working on speech with her, she started having spontaneous vocals and the feeling was truly magical. It’s an amazing feeling to watch these kids continue to grow every single day! 

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My advice would be that if you’re interested in working with kiddos, or if you’re interested in a job that is truly rewarding you should give this Lighthouse a chance, you won’t regret it! Lighthouse has an incredible training process that will help you become the best RBT that you can be!