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.
Ready for a career where you can make a difference?
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!
Ready for a career where you can make a difference?
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!
Ready for a career where you can make a difference?
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!
Ready for a career where you can make a difference?
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!
Ready for a career where you can make a difference?
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!
Ready for a career where you can make a difference?
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.
Ready for a career where you can make a difference?
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?
I have always been interested in Autism Spectrum Disorder and working with children. I am excited to learn more about ABA at Lighthouse and have become more encouraged to spread the word of neurodivergence. The position has further inspired me to pursue my career in neurocounseling by learning more about behavior and behavioral analysis. With my experience at LAC, I am excited to be able to research additional therapy options like neurofeedback and biofeedback for people with ASD and similar disorders.
What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?
Every day is different, and every role within the organization is vital. Each day our kiddos walk through the door, I know they learned a little bit more than the day before. Knowing it is because of my team at Lighthouse that we can change the lives of these kiddos and their families makes coming to work every day worthwhile. Witnessing joy from the kiddos as well as the RBT’s throughout the day is one reason that makes coming to work each day so easy.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?
I have so many wonderful memories of the little quirks and personalities of the kiddos. I think my happiest memories come from the joy and laughter of the kiddos, especially while they are having fun learning and mastering out of programs. It’s so rewarding working with a kiddo on a tough program, and then working with them a couple days later and seeing how far they’ve come to achieving a goal and progressing to more challenging programs.
Ready for a career where you can make a difference?
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?
I am in the field because I love helping clients, families, and my clinical team achieve their individual goals and I enjoy being a part of their journey here at Lighthouse. I love ABA therapy because I love seeing the progress our learners make each day.
What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?
My favorite thing about working for Lighthouse has been the continued collaboration with my incredible coworkers. I always enjoy the opportunities for career growth and cultivating my skills to become the best supervisor and mentor to my team.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?
There are so many memories! I love that I am part of creating an environment with my team and fellow clinicians that has a positive and tangible impact on our learners. I especially love the people that I work with each day and that we get to spend our days working together to make sure our learners are achieving the best outcomes.
Come be a part of our team!
Ready for a career where you can make a difference?
Meet Janine Shapiro: Director of Lighthouse Fusion™
What made you decide on a career in therapy?
I have two younger siblings who presented with developmental speech disorders. I grew up in clinical waiting rooms! My parents had enormous respect and gratitude towards my brothers’ speech therapist; she was a hero in our house!
What inspires/drives you?
I’m inspired by the progress I see each day. I am driven to create new techniques- Fusion procedures- that produce results parents and other practitioners never dreamed possible.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Working alongside and collaborating with some truly brilliant speech and behavior analytic clinicians. I look forward to going to the office each day. I’m passionate about my career, which I don’t view as work. I’m extraordinarily lucky.
How has this career path impacted you?
I do not take anything for granted. I live a very grateful life. I’m most thankful for the families who trust me to give their children a voice.
What advice would you give to those seeking a Similar career path?
When offered an opportunity to learn, raise your hand! Add as many techniques to your toolbox as possible; each one will one day bring a learner a step closer to better communication and a more independent life. Seek out great mentors.
To learn more about Lighthouse Fusion™, click here.
Ready for a career where you can make a difference?
In May of 2022, Lighthouse Autism Center is celebrating 10 years of business. This would not be possible without our tenured staff. These individuals helped build a strong foundation for Lighthouse Autism Center and continue to bring compassion and expertise every day! They have paved a path for an inspiring future of endless growth and possibilities. They have brought hope into our communities and homes. They have unlocked a world of unlimited potential. Thank you for being such a significant piece to our puzzle and for embracing Lighthouse Autism Center’s core values every day!
About Leila
Leila is the Chief Clinical Officer at Lighthouse Autism Center. Her prior role at Lighthouse was a Clinical Director. Leila is a dog mom and enjoys hanging out with friends and family. She loves tacos, sushi, and coffee. A unique skill that Leila has is that she can speak a little Farsi and a decent amount of French.
Life Before Lighthouse:
What was your career background/experience before Lighthouse Autism Center?
Before Lighthouse, as a BCBA, I was working with teenagers & adults in a school, day programs, and inpatient care in Chicago. Before that, I was at an ABA center in the Indy area.
Lighthouse Journey:
Why did you originally apply at Lighthouse Autism Center?
Gregg convinced me it would be a place where BCBAs had a voice in how the company would run and I stayed because he kept his word.
What is your favorite memory at Lighthouse?
Other than stuff with kids, our first few Christmas parties where we were all in the same place. Also, so many great memories from Edison when we first started, it was crazy and busy, but wearing so many hats always made for memories, from Gregg being our plumber, to his mom picking out our paint colors, to the leak in my office ceiling, there are way too many to list!
How has Lighthouse impacted you personally?
I moved here for Lighthouse and have stayed here for Lighthouse!
What is your favorite part about working at Lighthouse?
Being able to impact families in a positive way, support them through this process, and see our kiddos succeed!
What does Lighthouse mean to you?
That’s simple—being able to have a positive impact on families, like the therapists that worked with my brother did on my family. Support does not always have to come from family, often it’s the village you surround yourself with and we get to be that village for our kiddos and their families.
Which of the LAC Values do you most identify with?
Be yourself. I think this runs throughout Lighthouse, not just as an employee and how we want to look at our teams, but also our kiddos.
What is your favorite change/improvement you have experienced in your time at Lighthouse?
Being able to service so many kids in different areas.
What advice would you give to prospective or new employees?
Just apply! All it takes is one day to fall in love with these kiddos.
Ready for a career where you can make a difference?
In May of 2022, Lighthouse Autism Center is celebrating 10 years of business. This would not be possible without our tenured staff. These individuals helped build a strong foundation for Lighthouse Autism Center and continue to bring compassion and expertise every day! They have paved a path for an inspiring future of endless growth and possibilities. They have brought hope into our communities and homes. They have unlocked a world of unlimited potential. Thank you for being such a significant piece to our puzzle and for embracing Lighthouse Autism Center’s core values every day!
About Melissa
Melissa is a Family Outreach Coordinator at Lighthouse Autism Center. Her prior roles at Lighthouse include Registered Behavior Therapist and Senior Therapist. Melissa enjoys baking and cooking. She loves Cake Bake Lemon cake, and her favorite animal is an elephant. She likes rainbow Tie-dye and is a good singer but does not enjoy singing for others. Melissa used to be a performing belly dancer for fairs, festivals, and special events and was once the centerpiece for a sword performance where she danced and balanced a large sword over her head.
Life Before Lighthouse:
What was your career background/experience before Lighthouse Autism Center?
Before working in ABA, I spent much of my time working in Elementary Education for PHM’s Kindergarten Program. I also did work through college and following PHM in Social Work with Children and Adolescents with Mental Illness and those in the Juvenile Court System.
Lighthouse Journey:
Why did you originally apply at Lighthouse Autism Center?
While working for PHM as a Program Assistant, I fell in love with working with kids with special needs. I spent a lot of my spare time researching and developing programming with my resource teacher to better serve the students in my care. A few co-workers chatted about a new ABA center in town ran by Gregg and Sandy. They insisted that I look into applying and felt like it would set me up for a lot of growth within my current skillset. There was just something that set LAC apart from other ABA centers popping up around town, and I just felt like I needed to be part of it.
What is your favorite memory at Lighthouse?
I have SO many. The most impactful would be when a nervous parent dropped her son off for his first day. I told her he was in good hands and with people who were going to fall head over heels for him. She then told me she felt like she found “The light at the end of her tunnel.” That was a HUGE pivoting moment in my career with LAC. It opened my eyes to the level of importance of what we do and the impact we have on families.
How has Lighthouse impacted you personally?
I feel like Lighthouse has invested in not only myself, but my family. The COVID-19 pandemic was a very trying time for our family. When the pandemic hit and the world was shutting down, my husband’s company was trying its best to keep its head above water. The company went from over 50 employees, down to 5… Those 5 also had to sacrifice much of their jobs to keep things moving. Mike and I had emotional conversations we thought we would never have to have… We worried about keeping a roof over our head, providing for our son, and the “What Ifs” as we found out we were expecting a new baby. The one constant during this time was LAC. They continued to support our family the best they could. They didn’t turn away from our needs when things became too difficult. They continued to support my husband’s company by ordering masks and additional apparel, keeping a local business afloat. I felt like LAC valued me as an important piece of the company, not just a number like many other companies were doing around us.
What is your favorite part about working at Lighthouse?
I love seeing families flourish while receiving services and now being that first person to get them moving in the right direction. I also love witnessing therapists making breakthroughs with our kids. I love seeing the “Ah ha” moments when therapists realize why they are here and why THEY are important.
What does Lighthouse mean to you?
It all comes back to “being the light at the end of the tunnel.” I feel amazing being a light in this community. I feel proud of who we are and what we do. Very few people can say that about their job, and I feel fortunate to be one of the lucky few.
Which of the LAC Values do you most identify with?
Care about people more than anything.
What is your favorite change/improvement you have experienced in your time at Lighthouse?
The most exciting change has been the transition to Lighthouse Fusion! It has been wonderful to see the centers be remodeled to a fun and immersive environment that you can immediately witness our students become fully engaged with. The response from families viewing the center speaks for itself. Every tour has been blown away and always expresses how much their child needs what we do at Lighthouse Autism Center.
What advice would you give to prospective or new employees?
If you invest in Lighthouse, Lighthouse will invest in you in return. If you believe in what we do, and bring your best to serve those around you, the company will recognize and serve your efforts in return.
Ready for a career where you can make a difference?
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Lighthouse Autism Center offers ABA therapy for children with autism. Contact us to learn how our innovative clinical model can help your child make greater progress, faster, all while having fun.
