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! 

Elizabeth is Lighthouse Autism Center’s Staff Spotlight of the Month

Elizabeth is a Program Manager at our Valparaiso center. She has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since August of 2019 and started as a Registered Behavior Technician, then a Senior Therapist and next, a Jr. Program Manager. She graduated from Ball State University with an undergraduate in Criminal Justice and Criminology and a graduate, Mastering in ABA. Elizabeth is engaged with 3 kids – 2 boys and a little girl. She has 2 beagle mix dogs. Elizabeth is also an avid reader and loves coffee.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I was looking for a fulfilling job working with kids, after having years of experience in different realms of childcare, I wanted to find something I would enjoy long term.

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

I love being able to make a difference in the kids’ lives and building relationships with my co-workers. I equally love the opportunities that Lighthouse offers to continue learning and growing in my ever-changing role.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memories stem from being a direct therapist and being able to see clients do things for the first time and knowing that I have helped shape them to reach their full potential.

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

Lighthouse is full of love and growth. For someone who wants to grow and pursue new opportunities and find a company they want to retire with, I think Lighthouse provides such comfort and support for long-term employees!

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

Abigail is a Registered Behavior Technician at our Portage center. She has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since June of 2022 and is currently working towards her Associates Degree in Human Services and Social Work at Ivy Tech and anticipates graduating in August of 2023. She will then continue to study for her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work. Abigail loves to spend time with her family, go camping and play softball.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I applied for the position at Lighthouse Autism Center because of the passion in my heart to be able to work and help children in ABA therapy! 

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

My favorite part about working at Lighthouse is to see the success in each kiddo everyday, to see the smiles from kiddos you are implementing and the amazing bonds I create with my coworkers. Seeing each kiddo excited everyday and start to progress and master out of programs is an amazing thing to be apart of. I would describe my experience working at Lighthouse as comparable to being on your favorite vacation but staying there forever. I have experienced so much joy and support from each kiddo and staff member we have, it fills me with many happy tears. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memory at Lighthouse Autism Center was when a kiddo had a group of us circle around and put our hands in the center, count to three and yell “Everyone wins!” This one experience has been a source of continuous positive reinforcement for our center to staff to keep us uplifted. It is amazing to see not only this experience but so many others have such a positive impact! 

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

This is such a fun play based environment! To deliver high quality ABA each day is a success on its own. There is nothing better than to see successes with each kiddos with things like speech therapy, gross motor skills and even behavior analysis as a whole. This is the most rewarding and fulfilling job if you have passion in your heart to see children succeed! 

Avery from Kalamazoo is This Month’s Lighthouse Autism Center Spotlight

Avery is the Clinical Director at our Kalamazoo center. She has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since August of 2018 and was previously a Program Manager and Senior Program Manager. Avery attended Valparaiso University and received a BA in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Theology. She then went on to obtain her Masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis with specializations in Early Intervention and OBM at Western Michigan University. Avery has two spoiled cats and enjoys crafting on her Cricut- to make signs, cups, and t-shirts! She also enjoys camping with her fiancé!

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I applied to Lighthouse Autism Center because I wanted to be apart of a community of people who are dedicated to providing high quality ABA therapy!

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

My favorite part of LAC are the people- both staff and clients! My staff are all such dedicated and caring individuals. They are truly inspiring people to be around every day! Our clients are some of the cutest and smartest kiddos around. I love getting to see all of the fun and how much they learn! They tend to teach me a few things too.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

There are so many, but my most recent favorite experience was when we had a firetruck and firefighters come to the center! The kids had the best time meeting the firefighters, seeing the equipment, getting some cool stickers and hats, and sitting in the firetruck. The smiles on their faces were infectious to LAC staff and to the firefighters! It was an incredible moment to witness some clients, who previously would not have been able to tolerate that experience, having a fun time!

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

This is a fast pace and fun learning environment that focuses on teaching clients building block skills needed to be as independent and successful as possible. While it is sometimes a tough job, it is absolutely the most rewarding one you can have! Investing in these kids is such a worthwhile experience. There is nothing better than seeing the “click” when a new skill sticks, hearing a client successfully say their first word without any approximations, or being a part of the team that helped celebrate every potty party on the path to potty independence. I can guarantee that while our goal is to teach these kids, by working with them you will learn something about yourself along the way. If you are passionate about kids, are wanting to make a difference, and would like to have some fun then I encourage you to join our team!

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

Corey Tells Us About His Time Working At Lighthouse

Corey is a Registered Behavior Technician at our Noblesville Autism Center, where he has worked for almost a year. Following graduation, Corey joined the Lighthouse Team and has exceled in his time here. When not at Lighthouse Corey enjoys sports, music, and being outdoors.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I’ve had the opportunity to work in several different positions, but was looking for something more. After my dad passed, I knew I wanted to do something where I felt I was making a difference. I happened to find Lighthouse on Indeed. Even though I had no idea what ABA was at the time, it seemed like a job that I would enjoy and where I could make a difference.
What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?
My favorite part about working for Lighthouse is interacting with the kids and seeing the progress they make each day. When I am working with a kiddo and they master a new skill or discover something new, it’s the best feeling and so rewarding.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

Some of my favorite memories at Lighthouse involve spirit days and spirit weeks. It’s so fun to change up the daily routine with not only my team but the kids. Dressing as a favorite character, rocking our favorite sports team, whatever it is, you just feel an awesome energy at the center and it’s so much fun for our team and kids.

Meet Haeleigh, an RBT at Lighthouse Autism Center Champaign

Haeleigh is a Registered Behavior Therapist at our Champaign center, where she has worked since May of 2022. Haeleigh received her undergraduate in psychology at the University of Northern Colorado and she is currently enrolled to begin a Master of Arts program in neuroscience and neurocounseling at Bradley University this fall. She has two pets- a dog, Mico, and a cat, Weeble. Haeleigh recently moved to Champaign, Illinois to be closer to family and for her program at BU.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

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

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

July’s Lighthouse Autism Center’s Staff Spotlight is Bryn

Bryn is the Clinical Director at our Fishers Autism Center, where she has worked since January of 2021 and has been in the field of ABA therapy for 11 years. Bryn received her undergraduate degree in child psychology at Bridgewater University in Massachusetts, her BCaBA at the Florida Institute of Technology, and then her master’s at Ball State University. She was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana and enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, going to the park and swimming.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

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

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

Meet Janine Shapiro: Director of Lighthouse Fusion™

What made you decide on a career in therapy?

What inspires/drives you?

What is your favorite part of your job?

How has this career path impacted you?

What advice would you give to those seeking a Similar career path?