MEET OUR administrators

Irene is the Lead Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Owner of Positive Steps ABA. She earned her master’s degree from Ball State University in 2015 and completed additional ABA coursework through the Florida Institute of Technology. Irene has been working in the field since 2012, supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other related diagnoses across a variety of settings.

Before founding Positive Steps ABA, Irene gained extensive hands-on experience working as a direct care worker, Registered Behavior Technician, and later as a BCBA and Clinical Director in clinics throughout the state of Florida. These roles shaped her clinical approach and deepened her commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate, and individualized services to families.

In 2020, Irene opened Positive Steps ABA after recognizing the need for a more personal, supportive alternative to large “big-box” companies. Her vision was to create a clinic where families feel truly supported and heard, and where staff feel valued, appreciated, and connected—allowing for stronger relationships and better outcomes for clients.

When she’s not working, Irene enjoys playing fetch with her goldendoodle and spending time outdoors with her husband and little boy! 

Julianne is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and has worked in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis since 2017 working with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She has received her Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and Organizational Behavior Management and is currently working towards her PhD in Behavior Analysis at Florida Institute of Technology (FIT). 

Julianne has experience working with children and families within the clinic, home, school, and in the community.
 
Julianne was born and raised in Miami and has lived in Brevard County since 2019. She is fluent in English and Spanish as her family is from Cuba and Spain. 

When Julianne is not working or studying, you can find her dancing, cooking, travelling, hanging out with friends and family, or taking her dog, Luna, to the beach!

Kayla is the Assistant Clinical Director and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) at Positive Steps ABA, with over 10 years of experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. She earned her master’s degree in counseling with a concentration in behavior analysis from Nova Southeastern University and has been a BCBA since 2020. Her clinical approach emphasizes ethical, compassionate, and evidence-based practices tailored to the unique needs of each individual and family served.

In her role at Positive Steps ABA, she is dedicated to supporting meaningful growth through collaboration with families and clinical teams. She values building strong, trusting relationships while maintaining a professional and approachable presence. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys time with her growing family, which includes her baby, three dogs, and one cat—an experience that continually reinforces the importance of patience, connection, and balance in her work.

My name is Theodore, and as a Goldendoodle, I've got a heart as golden as my fur, and I'm honored to be a part of our clients' journey. You see, I'm not just your average pup - I'm specially trained to provide support and comfort to kids with autism. With my gentle demeanor and patient nature, I'm here to be your steadfast companion through every adventure and challenge.

I understand that the world can sometimes feel overwhelming, with its loud noises, bright lights, and unfamiliar faces. But fear not, because I'm here to help make things a little easier. Whether you need a friend to snuggle with during a tough moment or a buddy to play with when you're feeling joyful, I'm here to be by your side.

My training as an emotional support animal has taught me all sorts of tricks to make life a little smoother for both of us and I'll always be there to offer a comforting paw or a reassuring nuzzle.

But don't worry, I'm not all business - I've got plenty of fun tricks up my sleeve too! Whether it's playing ball in the backyard, going for a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood, or just lounging around on a comfy sofa, I'm always up for an adventure.

So if you're looking for a furry friend who understands you and accepts you just the way you are, look no further than Theodore. Together, we'll navigate the world with courage, compassion, and a whole lot of tail wags.