Meet Kari: A Passionate Advocate for Behavioral Support and Development

We are excited to shine a spotlight on Kari, a dedicated professional with a rich background in Rehabilitation Services, Psychology, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Kari’s journey began with her undergraduate studies at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Services and Psychology in 2009. Her passion for behavior analysis led her to pursue a Master of Science degree in Applied Behavior Analysis in 2011, where she immersed herself in ABA principles, research, and therapeutic interventions.

Throughout her career, Kari has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals through behavioral support. Her diverse experiences include conducting studies on twin interactions and behavioral patterns, researching preference assessments for elderly patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s, supporting rehabilitation for adolescents with traumatic brain injuries, evaluating executive functioning in neurotypical children, and providing therapy for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Kari’s expertise in ABA became even more pronounced after she earned her Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential. She took her skills to a non-profit organization in Virginia, where she worked closely with public schools to enhance special education services for children on the autism spectrum. Her role involved assessing needs, implementing individualized education plans, and training educators using the Competent Learner Model (CLM). This model, rooted in ABA principles, played a crucial role in supporting children’s development and learning outcomes.

In her extensive career, Kari has also excelled in training and overseeing educational, professional, and clinical settings. Her ability to apply ABA principles to develop effective teaching strategies for diverse groups, including those with and without disabilities, highlights her versatility and leadership.

Since 2014, Kari has served as a Clinical Director, managing clinic operations to ensure the delivery of high-quality therapy services. Her leadership is marked by her dedication to fostering a positive work environment that motivates both staff and learners.

Autism Diagnostic Testing at Lighthouse Autism Center

In 2023, Kari embraced a new challenge as she transitioned into a diagnostics support role at Lighthouse Autism Center. Working alongside a licensed clinical psychologist, she is now involved in developing in-house autism evaluations. This role has allowed her to further expand her skills as a behavior analyst and engage directly with families seeking evaluation and treatment for their children. Additionally, Kari contributes to the organization’s training department, focusing on compassionate care, learner self-advocacy, and effective supervision.

Outside of her professional life, Kari enjoys a fulfilling family life with her husband, Scott, and their two young daughters. Together with their dog, Murphy, they embrace outdoor adventures and cherish cozy moments with their cat, Ridge, on rainy days. Kari’s hobbies include cooking, exploring the Indianapolis area, traveling, and tackling DIY home projects. She remains passionate about continuing her educational outreach and sharing her expertise in ABA.

Kari’s journey reflects her deep commitment to behavioral support and her ongoing dedication to advancing the field of ABA. We are thrilled to have her as part of our team and look forward to the continued positive impact she will make.