Ana’s  Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Ana is a Senior Therapist and Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) Trainer at Lighthouse Autism Center – Kalamazoo, bringing her expertise since joining in February 2022. She holds a degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Western Michigan University. Originally from Costa Rica, Ana has lived in four countries before settling in Kalamazoo seven years ago. Outside of her work, Ana enjoys a variety of hobbies including watching TV shows, playing tennis, going on leisurely walks with her cat Lio, and cherishing moments with her friends and family. Her vibrant personality and diverse experiences enrich our team at Lighthouse Autism Center every day.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I’ve always had a passion for education, working with children and helping others. After graduating from WMU, as I was looking for a job, I came across various postings. But LAC’s job posting caught my attention, it was light, fun and it just gave me a “this might be it” feeling. And I guess I was right, after having my interview with Avery Blackburn I just knew I was in the right place.

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

My favorite part about working at Lighthouse is watching the learners achieve goals and overcome challenges, and alongside their technicians and clinical team putting their heart and soul into creating opportunities for the learners to accomplish this. Every single learner I’ve worked with has a piece of my heart; they’re the best part about working at Lighthouse. 

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

Lighthouse is a place of love and acceptance where everyone is welcomed. When I first started at Lighthouse, I thought not having any ABA knowledge or having English as my second language would’ve been barriers that wouldn’t let me succeed as much as I wanted to. But the Pod 3 team, especially my previous supervisor, Dani Boden, and fellow desk trainer Meg McCaw, gave me the confidence and tools to succeed and prosper. I’ve learned and grown so much over the years at Lighthouse. I’m eternally grateful for the clinical team I get to work with every day- Becca, Emilie, Avery, Niki, Clare, Katie, Mikaela, Grace, Michaela, and Lexie. They have all taught me valuable lessons that make me the desk trainer I am today. I’m so happy to have found a place were coming to work is a pleasure instead of an obligation, and I thank my coworkers for making our center such a fun place to work at. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

From all the amazing days I’ve had at Lighthouse it’s hard to choose just one favorite memory. Some memories that stand out for me are when one of our nonverbal learners said the word “light” while manding for a toy flashlight, all  the fun-Friday dance parties in the playroom, and definitely when one of our learners was having a hard time transitioning out of the building at pick up and my coworker Nate E and I played crazy frog and we did a dance party all the way until we got outside to his mom. 

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

We are all a team with the same passion, helping our learners succeed in different ways. It can get challenging at times, but it is so rewarding at the same time. We are our learners’ second home- they are with us for 8 hours a day, every tiny effort to make this home a loving and safe one, makes a difference in their lives. If you come in every day with love, patience, and acceptance to share, there is no doubt you will shape our learners’ future for the better. 

Meg’s  Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Meg is a Clinical Apprentice at Lighthouse Autism Center – Jenison and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since October 2021. Meg started at Lighthouse Autism Center in Kalamazoo West as a senior/desk trainer and then moved to Jenison in August 2023. She graduated with a bachelor’s from Grand Valley State University and is currently pursuing her masters in ABA from Ball State University. In Meg’s free time, she is an avid reader and loves being with her friends and family. She has two adorable nephews who are her absolute favorites to spend her weekends with. 

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I originally applied to Lighthouse Autism Center as I had only heard good things and I knew I had a passion working with and for others. At Lighthouse, I knew I would be a part of a compassionate environment that fosters joy, growth, and greater choices for all involved. 

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

The people at Lighthouse make it what it is. They consistently promote acceptance, kindness, and are so quick to celebrate every win for everyone. I have been fortunate to be surrounded by passionate, hardworking teams at both Kalamazoo West and Jenison. At Kalamazoo West, I got to work side-by-side with some of the best people and continue to have this privilege at Jenison. Additionally, both centers’ clinical teams have afforded me opportunities to continue learning, growing, and becoming my best self. I’ve tremendously enjoyed getting to work under Dani Boden at both centers and continue growing professionally and personally under her guidance. Every individual that I have been able to work alongside and each learner I have meet have been the best parts of LAC. 

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My experience at Lighthouse has been empowering and has brought growth, celebrations, and challenges. It is a demanding job, but it is so rewarding and fulfilling. I feel fortunate that I get to come to work at LAC.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

Throughout my time at LAC, I have collected so many favorite memories. Every gain my learners make that I get to celebrate, so much laughter and fun with coworkers, and getting to learn and work with Ana Nunez-Palmieri at Kalamazoo West. It’s hard to choose just one favorite moment, but one of my first learners graduation stands out and will remain special to me forever.

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

My advice for anyone interested in starting a career at LAC is that if you have a passion for working with children to help promote greater choices and joy, no matter your past work experiences, to come with patience and a willingness to learn. Some days will be more challenging than others, but at the end of every day when you’ve put your best self forward, you’ve made a lasting difference to your learners and their families. 

Marie’s  Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Marie, a dedicated Registered Behavior Technician, proudly serves at Lighthouse Autism Center – Elkhart South, bringing her unwavering commitment to excellence since joining the team in April 2023. Hailing from the vibrant southern suburbs of Illinois, her journey into the field of autism care began with a foundation laid at Bloom High School in Chicago Heights, where she graduated with distinction in 2020. With a deep-seated passion for making a difference in the lives of individuals with autism, Marie’s presence exemplifies the compassionate spirit and professionalism that defines Lighthouse Autism Center’s mission.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

When I applied for the position to be an RBT in 2023, I did it with a question mark over my head, but I went into it with an open mind and open heart. Although I had no knowledge about the job and didn’t know that there were opportunities like this, I took that leap of faith to step out of my comfort zone and try something new.

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

My favorite part about working for Lighthouse is being able to work with these precious learners that walk into our center daily. I love that I can see them improve in areas they need help in and also being that person that can care for them as much as I can. 

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My overall experience at Lighthouse has been an eye-opener. I say this because when I started working here, I lived by two slogans: “open mind and open heart” and “CAP.” CAP stands for Compassion, Acceptance, and Patience. In order to have an open mind and open heart, you have to be willing to give compassion to your learner and love them as if they were your own. Secondly, you have to be accepting of how they are and what comes with your learner. Lastly, you have to have patience with your learner; patience is the key to success. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

I 100% know there are memories being made daily because we are what will be remembered in the long run, and the memories we make with the kids are long-term as well. But to fully answer that question, my favorite memory has by far been every moment I spend with my learners. Seeing their growth makes me feel like I’ve accomplished something just as much as they have. 

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

My advice to someone looking to be in the RBT field: just be yourself, be optimistic, keep your head held high, and if you start something, be sure to put your best foot forward every time. Being an RBT has by far been the best experience of my life, and it comes with lots of perks and learning experiences as well. 

Ian’s  Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Ian is an IT Help Desk Specialist at Lighthouse Autism Center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since August of 2020. He started at TBS in 2019 in Greenfield, IN, which was acquired by Lighthouse in January 2020. Ian was a Registered Behavior Technician from 2020 to 2021, then he became a Senior Therapist at Lighthouse’s Anderson Center. Rather than go to college, Ian started as a Behavior Technician in 2016 in Muncie, IN, where he became an RBT. Ian considers himself to be a band nerd at heart, and he has participated in 16 years of combined marching band, and indoor percussion experience as a performer, educator, and visual designer. His primary instrument is the Euphonium. Ian marched with the Oregon Crusaders Drum and Bugle Corps in 2017 and got to perform at Lucas Oil Stadium for Semi Finals. He loves to play Magic the Gathering and League of Legends. Ian has been married for 3 years and has a son, Connor who is 2 years old. You may see him on video call with Ian sometimes!

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I applied for the IT position at Lighthouse because I really wanted to participate at a higher level, but I also knew I didn’t want to pursue a BCBA license since I did not plan to go to school.

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

One of my favorite things about Lighthouse Autism Center and the people in it, is the unified pursuit of excellence and quality of care for the learners. Working as an RBT was a tough job, and working in IT brings its share of challenges, but I can say with certainty that the MO is clear from top to bottom in each department and each center. Everyone wants to be the best they can be for the learners. I see it when I video chat PMs and RBT Trainers alike at a center. I can hear it in the background when staff and learners laugh and learn together. It’s the aspect of my job I cherish most. Each video call brings with it an ambience of center life that I left behind.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

There are some really great people working for LAC that are looking for talent, and that extends beyond just skill in ABA. Opportunity will present itself, and when it does do not hesitate to put yourself out there.

Ashley’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Ashley is a Lead Registered Behavior Technician at our Anderson center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since August of 2023. She is a step-mom to three awesome kids and has two Great Danes and a Sun Conure parrot. Ashley loves to read, draw and spend time doing things outside in the warm weather with the people that mean the most to her.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

When I became an RBT, there was no doubt in my mind that this was the career for me. Unfortunately, I needed to find a center that was closer to home. I had always heard good things about Lighthouse and although I had interviewed for other centers as well, Lighthouse just stood out to me the most.

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

My favorite part of working for Lighthouse is definitely the culture. I love that so many people come together with the same goal in mind and that is to provide the best therapy for some of the most amazing kiddos.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My experience at Lighthouse has been even better than I imagined it to be. Being an RBT in general is such a rewarding career, but it really makes all the difference to work for a company that values you as a person as well as an employee. I’ve met some of the most amazing people at Lighthouse that I’ve created great friendships with and I’ll forever be thankful for that. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

There are so many great memories, it’s hard to choose just one. I love all of our holiday activities for learners and staff. Spirit weeks are always so much fun because I love seeing the learners faces when we all dress up. The best part will always be just seeing our learners hit their goals and being an essential part in helping them learn, grow and express themselves. 

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

Just do it. It’s such an awesome career for anyone that wants to actually make a difference. There’s not one day that I dread going to work because I truly love what I do. 

Ruthie’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Ruthie is a Registered Behavior Technician Trainer at our East Moline center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since July of 2023. She is a mom to a seven-year-old boy and her favorite hobbies are writing poetry and painting. Ruthie also enjoys trying new things and meeting new people. She is a huge movie buff and her idea of a perfect evening is sitting on the couch watching a good movie and eating popcorn.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I made a choice years ago to work in different fields- never doing the same thing twice. I was determined to find my purpose. I worked jobs as complicated as the government and as simple as a warehouse. There was one job I could never get away from- children. Everywhere I went I found myself teaching or molding a child from different walks of life. I applied at Lighthouse not knowing what was in store. I saw the website and was sold almost immediately. I knew I could be a teacher but never knew about being a Registered Behavior Technician. I live to try things I’ve never tried, so I applied, and now my life is filled with so much more purpose. 

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

My favorite part of working for Lighthouse is its solid foundation, which is very important for autism and the people working with individuals on the spectrum. Change is good, but too much change creates inconsistency. I love the energy as well. Everyone here is happy to be here and this is something I rarely saw throughout my many career choices.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My experience here at Lighthouse has reached new levels mentally for me. I usually go into the workforce and grasp everything at the beginning and when I have reached the ceiling of elevation, I quit and move on to another career. Here at Lighthouse, there is no limit. There are more opportunities and space to grow, if you are willing to work for it. I’m constantly challenged, creatively, mentally, and physically. I love the fact that I can be my authentic self and use my creativity to help each learner reach their goal.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memory from my time at Lighthouse happened within my first month of joining the team. When I was in training, I was so worried that I was not grasping all the terms and understanding how to run the programs. Every step of the way someone on the team was yelling “Go Ruthie” or “You got this” and it gave me the push and encouragement I needed to succeed. Now I can do the same for other trainees. 

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

While I do not have a college degree and I have never worked with children diagnosed with autism before Lighthouse, within 6 months I have advanced to an RBT Trainer through hard work and training from my fellow team members. Something that has not been easy as a single parent. If you are afraid because you believe you are not enough or you can’t help a child with autism, then you are the right person for the job because you have humility. All of this to say: “The sky is not the limit; it is only a point of reference.” —-Pastor Frank R. Livingston.

Gracie’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Gracie is a Registered Behavior Technician at our Daleville center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since June of 2023. She graduated from Ball State University with a bachelor’s degree in childhood education. Gracie has one dog and two cats and enjoys spending time with her family, traveling with her husband and working out.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

While student teaching, I realized that I enjoyed working one-on-one with children rather than teaching a full class. When I saw the position at LAC, I was very excited to learn more!

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

My favorite part of working for Lighthouse is watching the progress that all the learners in the center have made since I have began working! Watching them grow and learn new things everyday is so great. I am so thankful for all the wonderful staff at LAC as well. They are all so supportive and caring.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My experience working at Lighthouse has been nothing short of amazing. It is such a rewarding job that I am thankful to be a part of.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

One of my favorite memories from my time at Lighthouse is when we had our fall festival. This was my first event at the center for all of the learners and their families. It was so great to be able to watch the families be able to enjoy a fun evening full of fall activities in a safe and welcoming environment! Not to mention seeing all of the children so happy to be there with their families! 

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

Working at Lighthouse Autism Center is such a fun and rewarding job. There may be hard days here and there, but I believe it is best to stay positive and know that you are making the biggest difference in these children’s lives. 

Amanda’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Amanda is a Registered Behavior Therapist Training Coordinator at our Elkhart North center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since February of 2021. She graduated from Goshen College with a bachelor’s degree in physical education.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

After graduating during the middle of the school year, I couldn’t find the right fit anywhere. That is when I started looking into other jobs outside of what I went to school for. I had worked with students on the spectrum in gym class throughout college. However, I had no idea what ABA Therapy was or what it looked like. It was something new and I was still wanting to learn more. I knew I wanted to keep working with kids and being able to be 1 on 1 with the kiddos is what really caught my eye.

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

The environment! Everyone is welcoming, energetic, creative, and ready to teach little minds. The relationships! Not only the relationships and the rapport you build with the kiddos you are working with from day to day and their family, but the relationships you get to create with your co-workers. You work side by side with everyone all day and as we all may know, this job comes with some tough days. Having the people you work with know what you are experiencing allows for you to have someone to talk to and feel comfortable and supported. The Progress! This is number 1 in my book. You form a connection with your kiddos, learn them well, cheer them on and see them grow each day. A lot of this growth and progress we see is done by weaving in natural learning opportunities through play. Not a bad way to “work” in my eyes.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

Rewarding, supportive, emotional in the best way. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

While being at Lighthouse, my favorite memories are all the graduations I have been able to attend. Being with the kiddos from the first day to their last is an emotional ride, but I wouldn’t change any of it. The growth we see with the kids, and then to continue to remain in contact with families to see their success after Lighthouse will always be something I cherish. 

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

Take the leap! Come in with an open mind and ready to learn! It is such a rewarding career!

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.