Our Team

Safety Care Crisis Prevention Training

All of our staff receive training in Safety Care. Safety-Care teaches staff a wide range of verbal and physical prevention strategies based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis.  The preventative focus is designed to be an active part of our organization’s restraint prevention and elimination initiative. Safety-Care training incorporates the latest research, most current regulatory practices, and extensive practical experience in modern educational, psychiatric, and healthcare settings. Course material is updated regularly in response to the latest developments in behavioral safety interventions.  Safety-Care is a different kind of crisis prevention and management program. Instead of focusing on coercion, limit setting, and other power struggle tactics, Safety-Care uses a more humane, person-centered, and effective approach that uses functionally based interventions that minimize inadvertent reinforcement of challenging behaviors. Our team learns how to prevent behavioral challenges and respond to them if necessary thereby reducing the frequency of incidents in the least restrictive approach.

Clinical
Supervisors

Clinical Supervisors are professionals who have earned their master’s degree to serve those with autism. Clinical Supervisors have completed a masters program and received numerous academic and supervision hours to take the Board Certification examination. Upon successful completion of this exam, Clinical Supervisors are able to receive their licenses to practice Applied Behavior Analysis. BCBAs possess extensive knowledge on how to create the most effective treatment plans that utilize their understanding of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Every client at The SEED Center will have a Board Certified Behavior Analyst assigned to his or her case in order to ensure that they are receiving the best possible treatment. Click Here to learn more about BCBAs.

Registered Behavior Technicians

A Registered Behavior Technician is a behavior technician that has successfully completed their Registered Behavior Technician Examination. In order to take the exam, behavior technicians are required to complete numerous hours of ABA therapy under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Once a Registered Behavior Technician, a person can start working toward becoming a BCBA. Click Here to learn about RBTs.

Management

Evan Schermer, MS, Co-Founder/President

Evan Schermer is the Co-Founder and President of the Center for Social Enrichment and Educational Development,  or The SEED Center. Mr. Schermer holds his Master of Science Degree in School Psychology from St. John’s University and his Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Psychology from Towson University. He is a New York State certified school psychologist and has worked in the field of special education for 25 years. Prior to starting The SEED Center, Mr. Schermer helped build and establish several private schools for individuals with autism and other related disabilities. He has and continues to provide consulting services for public schools where his specialty is reducing school costs while increasing their efficiency and effectiveness.

Evan Schermer has advanced training in Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) and leads many workshops and professional development trainings on CPS as well as other topics related to autism and special needs. Mr. Schermer is a certified instructor in Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (CPI) and trains and certifies all therapists employed by The SEED Center.  He acts as an advocate for families providing support, knowledge, and guidance in the area of special education law and poilcies. In addition, has been an expert witness for impartial hearings in the NY Metro area. Mr. Schermer is the former Chairman of the Custom Education Foundation, which is a not-for-profit (501c3) organization that provides resources and support to individuals with special needs and their families. Finally, Evan Schermer is proud to have been awarded the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Entrepreneurial Success Award in May 2015. Mr. Schermer’s experience and knowledge, clinically and professionally, ensure a solid foundation and strength for The SEED Center to excel and grow.

 

ABA Therapy Fairfield, CT

Charlene Schermer, MA, Co-Founder/Vice President

Charlene Schermer is the co-founder and Vice President of the Center for Social Enrichment and Educational Development , or The SEED Center. Mrs. Schermer received her Master of Arts in Special Education from New York University and her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a specialization in Early Childhood Studies from Long Island University. She holds a dual teaching certification in Special Education and Elementary Education, as well as a NAP Montessori Teacher Certification. Mrs. Schermer has received training in Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS), Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Recipe for Reading and the Wilson Reading Program. She has been working in the field of education for over 12 years and has experience working with individuals with autism and other related neurobiological disorders such as Asperger’s syndrome, bi-polar disorder, Tourette’s syndrome, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, and depression.

Andres Alvarez, Finance Director

Andres joins The SEED Center as the Finance Director. He’s primarily responsible for overseeing the day-to-day financial activities of the company and that these are in compliance with company standards. In addition, he oversees the billing and coding of all services at the center. He holds a bachelor’s degree in legal studies from Western Connecticut University and an associate’s degree in accounting. Mr. Alvarez has years of experience in billing, coding, accounting services, tax preparation, and payroll. Mr. Alvarez has registered with IRS-CITA program to help individuals with preparation of tax returns.

Amanda Morales, MA, BCBA, LBA, Director of Operations and Human Resources

Amanda joins The SEED Center as a Licensed Behavior Analyst and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She holds a BA in Psychology with a concentration in Developmental Psychology from the College of Mount Saint Vincent, and a Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis with a concentration in Autism Studies from Ball State University. Amanda works directly with clients and their families in home, school, and community settings. With over 15 years of experience working with individuals with Autism, she is deeply passionate about enriching the lives of her clients by supporting them in meeting their goals, and developing their independence. 

Betzy Ayala, MS, Clinical Coordinator

Betzy joins The SEED Center as a Clinical Coordinator. She has worked in the public school systems as a para-educator for the past 11 years. Working with the children there motivated her to pursue a Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Phoenix, and then earn her Master’s in Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis from Capella University. She enjoys working with children and there have been many experiences working in the public school system that made her fall in love with this field. Betzy’s passion and her goal is to help foster a positive learning experience for every child, and to help them be as successful and as happy as they can be in life.

Talonda Johnson, BA, Office Manager

Talonda Johnson joins The SEED Center as an Office Manager. Talonda graduated from Sacred heart University with a degree in Business Administration. She has worked in multiple settings including out-patient physical therapy as a Patient Services Specialist for Select Medical Corp. and Skilled Nursing Facility as a Business Office Manager for Lord Chamberlain. Throughout the years, she has also worked with many kids from all walks of life as the Youth Coordinator for the Greater Love Temple Church. She is extremely passionate and very excited for this new opportunity to join The SEED Center team to make an impactful difference in people’s lives, take on new challenges and go beyond expectations!

Marisa Kelly, Client Accounts Manager

Marisa is excited to join The SEED Center family as the Client Accounts Manager. She has been in all aspects of administration in the medical field since 2001, including but not limited to daily claims submissions, insurance verifications, obtaining insurance authorizations, payment posting, claims follow-up, patient statements, and etc. Marisa‘s goal here at The SEED center is to address any payment issues or concerns that may arise during treatment and improve the overall experience.

Clinical Supervisors

Emily Blau, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA

Emily Blau joins The SEED Center as a Licensed Behavior Analyst and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She holds a Master’s of Education from Lesley University and has completed a graduate certificate in Behavioral Interventions in Autism at the University of Massachusetts Lowell.  She has taught in private schools serving students of diverse backgrounds and needs.  As the mother of a child with autism spectrum disorder, she has implemented Individualized Education Plans, Functional Behavior Assessments and Behavior Intervention Plans. Emily is passionate about using her knowledge and experience to help children and families coping with the challenges of autism spectrum disorder.

Melissa Sumadchat, MA, BCBA, LBA

Melissa joins The SEED Center as a Licensed Behavior Analyst and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She received her BS in Health Science with a concentration in Disabilities Studies from Stony Brook University, and her MA in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Melissa has worked in the preschool setting as both a teaching assistant and behavior therapist for 5 years. In her spare time, Melissa enjoys teaching and taking dance classes.

Kristin Osburn, MA, BCBA, LBA

Kristin joins the SEED Center with her BS in Psychology from the University of Rhode Island. Her Masters degree is in Applied Behavior Analysis from Western Connecticut State University.She became a BCBA after completing her coursework and fieldwork hours through the SEED Center. After working with the company for two years as a behavioral technician, she is excited to start her new role as a BCBA!

Robert Pascarelli, M.Ed, MS, BCBA, LBA

Rob Pascarelli joins The SEED Center as a clinical supervisor. Rob was a lead preschool teacher for 14 years and during that time he discovered his desire and passion to help children with challenging behaviors. He has an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, along with a Master’s Degree in Special Education and a Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Western Connecticut State University. Rob is excited about his new role at The SEED Center and is looking forward to making a difference in the lives of children while supporting their families.

Christian Robinson, MS, BCBA, LBA

Christian joins SEED Center as a Clinical Supervisor. He received his BA in Communications from Western Connecticut State University and completed The Masters of Psychology Program at Capella University. He has over 6 years experience working with multiple individuals within the Stamford School District. Christian started his journey as a Para-educator and moved his way up into an ASD room where he was first introduced to ABA. He is very excited to fulfill his dream of working as a BCBA, as he continues to grow at The SEED Center and gain experience using ABA in a different setting. 

 

Michele Matos, MA, BCBA, LBA

Michele joins The SEED Center as a Licensed Behavior Analyst and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She received a Master’s in Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson| University and completed a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from Arizona State University. She has served clients in a variety of settings including private school, in-home, and within the community. Michele is excited to join the team at the SEED Center and make a difference in the lives of her clients and their families.

Krista Pomeroy, M.ADS, BCBA, LBA

Krista joins The SEED Center as a Licensed Behavior Analyst and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She received her BS in Health Studies with a minor in Psychology from the University of Waterloo, and her M.ADS (Master of Applied Disability Studies) with specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis from Brock University. Krista is has worked in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis for 12 years providing services in clinic, home, community and school settings. Some of Krista’s pastimes include outdoor activities, dancing, and taking boxing classes.

Emily Trotta, MS, BCBA, LBA 

Emily joins The SEED Center as a Licensed Behavior Analyst and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She received her Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism from Russell Sage College. Emily has worked with clients in home, school, and community settings. She is so excited to take on the role of a BCBA and be a part of The SEED Center team!

Registered Behavior Technicians

Danielle Christon, RBT

Danielle joins The SEED Center as a Registered Behavior Technician. She has worked as a para-educator with autistic children in the public school system for the past 5 years. She enjoys working with children and looks forward to working with The SEED Center!

Terry Jones, MS, RBT

Terry joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. He has a MS in Applied Psychology from Sacred Heart University. He plans to continue his studies to earn a PhD, but he is excited to join The SEED Center team and learn from his peers in the field of Applied Behavioral Analysis.

Anejah McLaurin, BA, RBT

Anejah joins The SEED Center as a Registered Behavior Technician. She recently received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Sciences from the University of Connecticut. She has volunteered in daycare settings working with children from 2- 7 years old and was a mentor in high school. Anejah is very excited to continue working with children at The SEED Center, and to develop new skills!

Miriangely Salto, BA, RBT

Miriangely Salto joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She holds a BA in Psychology from The City College: Colin Powell School for Civic and Global Leadership. Miriangely plans to pursue her masters degree in Mental Health Counseling in the near future. Throughout college she has been working on becoming a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor and is now also working on becoming a Registered Behavior Technician. She is excited to start building connections and making a difference in lives of children on the spectrum and their families!

Amanda Wilkins, RBT

Amanda Wilkins joins The SEED Center as a Registered Behavior Technician. She is a student at UCONN Stamford campus, working towards a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Development & Family Sciences. Amanda is eager to learn more about applied behavior and gain new skills! She has worked with children in the past at summer camps and is very excited and grateful to be working at The SEED Center. 

Sarah Bazata, BA, RBT

Sarah joins The SEED Center as a Registered Behavior Technician. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology from Villanova University. She has been teaching preschool for the last five years and possesses ample ABA internship and research experience. Sarah is extremely excited to be starting her career as a member of The SEED Center team!

Kaitlin Sheerin, RBT

Kaitlin joins The SEED Center as a Registered Behavior Technician. She is currently a student at Marist College pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Kaitlin enjoys working with children and experience working with children with Autism. She is excited to be a part of The Seed Center team!

Jennifer Jacobs, RBT

Jennifer Jacobs joins The SEED Center as a Registered Behavior Technician. She is attending Rockland Community College pursuing to become an OT Practitioner. She aspires to provide a nurturing environment to help improve skills and promote independence. Jennifer is excited and hopes that working at The SEED Center will broaden her exposure and deepen her interest in the potential pursuit of also becoming a BCBA.

Emily Beel, RBT

Emily Beel joins the SEED Center as a Registered Behavior Technician. She is a student at Penn State University working towards a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. Emily worked in child care as a babysitter for over 4 years and she has personal experience working with her autistic brother. Emily loves children and she would love to learn more about how to help them. She is very excited to continue watching kids learn and grow. 

Shatorra Wilson, RBT

Shatorra Wilson joins The SEED Center as a Registered Behavior Technician. She began early childcare in 2014 at Bright Horizons Daycare and joined the Stamford Public School system in 2020. Shatorra loves working with children, and her favorite part of her job is their imagination. It takes them on the most creative journey and she loves every moment of it.

Amanda Olsen, BA, RBT

Amanda Olsen joins The SEED Center as a Registered Behavior Technician. She is an Indiana University Bloomington graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She has worked with young children since the age of 11, by helping out at her dance studio. Amanda plans to continue her education, wanting to pursue a masters degree in Developmental Psychology. Outside of work Amanda spends her time reading, listening to/watching podcasts, and spending time with her family and friends. Amanda is overjoyed to be a part of the SEED Center team providing ABA therapy to children. 

Anastasia Levenets, RBT

Anastasia Levenets joins The SEED Center as a Registered Behavior Technician. She was born in Russia and lives in Stamford, CT. Anastasia has experience working with children being a Childcare Assistant as well as a Swim Instructor. She has always enjoyed working with kids and is very excited to begin her journey at The SEED Center! 

Sophia Muzzio, BS, RBT

Sophia Muzzio joins The SEED Center as a Registered Behavioral Technician. She graduated from the University of Connecticut with a bachelor’s degree in Psychological Sciences and was accepted into the International Honors Society of Psychology. Sophia loves working with kids and has the most experience working with children ages 4-10. She is a passionate helper, a problem-solver and  a dedicated addition to the team. 

Octavia Molkenthin, BA, RBT

Octavia joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She graduated from Denison University with a Bachelors in Psychology, and a minor in Studio Art. She has worked as a lifeguard, babysitter, and camp counselor for many years. Octavia is passionate about working with children and is excited to work with the children at The SEED Center and to learn from and alongside them. She is honored to be working with such a great team as she begins her career as an ABA Therapist with The SEED Center. 

Leann Delluomo, RBT

Leann joins The SEED center as a Registered Behavior Technician. She has worked with children for over 17 years and has 5 years experience working as a Paraprofessional in an early intervention setting as well as a TA in a public school setting for children with special and emotional needs. She plans to return back to school in pursuit of her bachelor degree in Early Childhood and Psychology. It has been a passion, pleasure and a privilege for her to contribute to children’s growth and development over the years. 

Salma Aidaros, BA, RBT

Salma joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She is a dedicated professional with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, aiming to specialize in developmental disabilities with a particular focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD ). She has experience working in both school and clinical settings. Being trilingual helped her to develop the will to assist immigrants and underserved populations,  bridging language barriers and cultural gaps to ensure quality care for children on the spectrum.

Michele Pasqua, MS, RBT

Michele joins The SEED Center as a Registered Behavior Technician. She earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology with a concentration on Child and Adolescent Development from Southern New Hampshire University, and her Master’s in Education from Bank Street College. Michele has extensive professional and voluntary experience working with children in the hospital and preschool settings. She has worked in the world of ABA across settings including in homes, center, community, and schools for ages 2.5-17 years-old. With dedication, passion and creativity, Michele’s intention is to meet children where they are at developmentally to guide them to their highest level of success, in school and in life. Michele is so excited to be a part of the SEED Center team!  

Behavior Technicians

Noel Levvis, BS, BT

Noel Levvis joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. He received his BS in Communications from Southern Connecticut State University as well as his Certification in Audio Production from Boston University. Noel has been working with multiple individuals with ASD both professionally and personally for the last 6 years. He is very excited to provide proper care and education for clients and hopes to continue to learn from and grow within this community. 

Tamara Gelin, BT

Tamara joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She is a student at the University of Connecticut studying Human Development and Family Sciences. She plans to pursue her masters degree in the near future. Tamara has experience working with kids of all ages, mentoring 4th and 5th graders as well as working in a daycare setting with children from ages 1-3 years old. She has always had a passion in supporting younger children’s needs and is very excited to be apart of this team where she can continue to grow in this role!

Felix Belgrove, MA, BT

Felix joins The SEED center as a Behavior Technician.  He has a BA in Psychology and an MA with a concentration in school counseling from Manhattan College. Felix has developed a passion for working with young children as a youth basketball coach, para educator, and most recently as a school counselor.  He is excited to expand his practice by becoming a BCBA, continuing to make a difference in the lives of children while positively supporting their families.

 

Alexandra Alcin, BT

Alexandra joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She is a current student at Norwalk Community College majoring in Psychology.She has taken multiple psych classes during high school which has allowed her to expand her knowledge about this field. Alexandra grew up babysitting and that’s where her love for children was born. She also has additional experience with kids working at a daycare with ages 1-5. She is very excited to learn new skills and see herself grow within this role at The SEED Center!

Cynthia Lopez, BT

Cynthia joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She currently holds her associate’s degree in Social Science Psychology from Westchester Community College, and now a current student at Mercy University. She will be graduating with her BA in psych December 2024 in hopes of becoming a Clinical Psychologist in the future. Cynthia has a passion for assessing those with mental, behavioral and emotional disorders. She is very patient and empathetic and knows that The Seed Center will open new doors for her as far as learning new life skills that’ll be needed for the future. 

Ashley Fludd, BT

Ashley joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. Ashley has over five years of experience working in child care as a daycare lead teacher. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science. Ashley is excited to join The SEED Center and learn more about Applied Behavioral Analysis.

Chanille Assevero, BT

Chanille Assevero joins The Seed Center as a Behavior Technician. She is pursuing a Criminal Justice degree. Chanille has 6 years of experience working with children and she’s ready to take a new step to further her career. She is excited to learn more and be a part of The SEED Center team!

Alexus Deus, BT

Alexus Deus joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. Coming from a background of educators, she has grown a passion for helping and teaching children. She currently attends Norwalk community college majoring in business administration. While being the oldest of 6 siblings; she’s gained expertise as a babysitter/nanny mainly working with children with ASD. On her spare time Alexus enjoys running her photography business, predominately working with children. She hopes to one day form a non profit that targets helping talented children who lack creative and financial resources.

Emely Ciprian, BT

Emely Ciprian joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She is currently pursuing her Bachelors degree in Social Work. Emely has experience in childcare working with children of all ages. She is eager to learn and is excited to watch children learn and grow with all the resources provided at The SEED Center.

Katelyn Suarez, BA, BT

Katelyn Suarez joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She has a bachelor’s degree in Special Education and recently finished her student teaching, working with 5th graders and high schoolers with special needs. She also has personal experience with her sister who has special needs. She aims to utilize her background to create individualized strategies that foster the growth and development of each child, empowering them to reach their fullest potential. Katelyn is dedicated to making a positive and lasting difference in the lives of the children and families she works with.

Paul Bertuglia, BA, BT

Paul Bertuglia joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. He graduated Butler University with a bachelor’s degree in English. Paul was a member of Best Buddies from 2015-2022 and the SEED Center will allow him to continue to help those with mental, behavioral and emotional disorders. He is patient and passionate about everything he applies himself to.

Nashyra Eaddy, BT

Nashyra Eaddy joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She strives to empower others and has a strong passion for children development. After years of learning and understanding people skills it has defined her to be marvelous.

Doronda Carter, BT

Doronda Carter joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. Working in this field has allowed her to explore in detail-oriented ways. While working with children with autism she has noticed their great qualities which are hard-working, kind, caring, friendly, and focused. 

Autumn Young, BT

Autumn Young joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She has 3 years of childcare experience babysitting children with ASD. Autumn is very passionate and strives to make a difference in children’s lives. She enjoys reading and art and crafts.

Christopher Vargas, BT

Christopher Vargas joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. He attended Central Connecticut State University, where he majored in Social Work and took courses containing content of those with disabilities. Being an only child has inspired his intentions to be pure and uplifting when connecting with those around him. His goal is to be a positive impact, a listening ear and an amazing support system to those in need. He is beyond grateful and thrilled to not only be apart but to carry on the positive acts being done at The SEED Center. 

Nohana Hossain, BT

Nohana Hossain joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Crime and Justice at UConn Stamford. She brings a deep passion for understanding human behavior and its impact on society. With a background in working with children in after-school programs, Nohana is eager to continue her journey of working with children and explore the field of applied behavior while continuing to make a positive difference in the lives of children at The SEED Center. She is thrilled to be a part of the team!

Abigail Ricketts, BS, BT

Abigail joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She is a recent graduate from the University of Connecticut where she studied Psychological Sciences and Sociology. Abigail has experience working with children in various settings, including an internship with the non-profit organization, IRIS, where she served as a social-emotional learning intern, working with newly arrived immigrant/refugee children. She is passionate about dedicating her career to uplifting the lives of children and is excited to make a positive impact on the kids she will interact with at The SEED Center. Abigail is currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Work to become a clinical social worker for children.

Ashanti Headley, BT

Ashanti joins The SEED center as a Behavior Technician. She is a student at the University of New Haven. Her major is Psychology with a concentration in Forensics. During her studies, Ashanti has gained a deep appreciation for the complexities of human behavior and the importance of mental health in various settings. Her hands-on experience includes an enriching internship where she worked closely with children, helping to support their emotional and psychological development. Ashanti is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of young individuals.

Brittany Walker, BS, BT

Brittany joins The SEED Center as a Behavioral Technician. She graduated from Monroe College with her AS in Business Administration and her BS in Criminal Justice. She went on to work for the Administration for Children Services in NYC for 6.5 years. Brittany has several years of experience working with children and plans to continue in the future!

Nicolas Silva, BT

Nicolas joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. He is currently a senior in Psychological Sciences at Uconn and is very excited to keep expanding his knowledge in the field. In his years of experience teaching math at a tutoring center in Stamford, Nicolas became passionate about working with kids and is paving his way toward entering a Master’s degree program. He is thrilled to join The SEED Center, to keep changing lives and providing a higher quality of life to the kiddos in our community.

Haysee Espinosa, BT

Haysee joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She has her associate’s degree in Psychology from Bronx Community College and is a current student at Mercy University. She will pursue a dual degree a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Psychology. Haysee is excited to join the team as she has a passion for helping others and believes that with empathy she can make a difference in the world. Her dream is to open up a not-for-profit mental health and disorders clinic in the Dominican Republic for children and adults who struggle to get the resources that they need.

Nada Moudamane, BT

Nada Moudamane joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She is a current student at the University of Connecticut majoring in Psychology. She is passionate about working with children with autism and plans to get her masters in this field. Nada is excited to be part of The SEED Center team, making a difference!

Oriana Boliere, BT

Oriana joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She is a Sacred Heart University student getting a bachelor’s degree in Health Administration. She also intends to pursue a career in Occupational Therapy. Oriana is passionate about working with children and has been doing so for the past 4 years.  In her free time, she enjoys listening to music, crocheting, and boxing.

Katherin Martinez, BA, BT

Katherin Martinez joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She received her BA in Psychology at Albertus Magnus College. Katherin has over 3 years of experience working with children of all ages in school districts. She has developed a passion for working with children as a lacrosse coach and para educator. Katherin is planning to get her Masters in ABA to become a BCBA. She is excited to join the team and ready to grow more at The SEED Center.

Afrin Zzaman, BT

Afrin Zzaman joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She is currently pursuing a degree in Business and Psychology at UConn and brings prior experience working with children ages 3-14 as a camp counselor. Afrin is committed to fostering a nurturing and supportive environment to help children reach their full potential. Her passion for understanding human behavior drives her dedication to continuously learn and grow in her role.

Jason Charles, BS, BT

Jason Charles joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. He received his Bachelor’s in criminal Justice with a concentration in crime analysis from the University of New Haven. He works as a manager at Skyzone Norwalk, having experience working with children of all ages, including kids who have specific sensory needs, through their sensory hour program. He spent his internship at Pivot ministries in Bridgeport, which was a religious based, community health center/halfway house. He loves to spend his time giving back & aiding the community in whatever way he’s able. Jason has always had an interest in psychology & therapy. He’s patient, open, considerate, honest & always willing to listen. He’s hoping to make the SEED center The foundation for this new chapter in his career! 

Vielka Palma, BT

Vielka joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She has experience working with children and is CDA certified. She enjoys childcare in all aspects including challenging situations where her experience, patience, resilience and adaptability can support the needs of children and their families.

Nicholas Porricelli, BA, BT

Nicholas Porricelli joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. He graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in Biology and Neuroscience and is pursuing a career in Occupational Therapy. Nicholas brings valuable experience from working with children through his role at SE4A Buddies in Stamford and his internship at The Waverly Group, where he gained hands-on experience in child development and education. He is excited to contribute to the impactful work occurring at The SEED Center!

Elijah Jennings, BA, BT

Elijah Jennings joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. He  recently graduated from the University of Connecticut with his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. He worked as a summer counselor at the New Canaan YMCA and worked to help kids achieve their goals and express their love for sports. Elijah plans on pursuing his Master’s degree in the future. He’s passionate about helping others and being able to provide more change within the community.

Kayla Johnson, BA, BT

Kayla joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She holds a degree in psychology, with a minor in law and policy, combining an understanding of human behavior with a commitment to helping others. Passionate about creating positive change, she aims to develop a deeper sense of compassion and understanding, especially towards vulnerable communities who are unable to advocate for themselves. She also looks forward to working closely with skilled professionals to guide her professional growth as she prepares for graduate studies. In her free time, she enjoys staying active.

Yanee Laboriel, BT

Yanee joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She is very passionate about working with children. Her experience at daycares has allowed her to create lasting relationships with families over the years. Currently, Yanee is a student at Lincoln Tech for Medical Assistance. Her goal is to work in pediatrics care.

Roniqueka Wilson, BT

Roniqueka Wilson joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She has attended Gateway Community College as a radiology major and plans on furthering her education. Childcare is a very high passion of hers, she has worked a number of years as a babysitter. On her free time she enjoys nature, the arts, and has an interest in cinema and catering. She wishes to further develop her capability to help those in need.

Francia Beguhn, BT

Francia Beguhn joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She studied Human Development and Family Studies at Pennsylvania State University for two years, where she also worked as a tutor for children in nearby elementary schools. She has worked as a babysitter for families in New Canaan and worked as a paraeducator for ESS in Norwalk elementary schools. She is currently working to finish up her undergraduate degree in Digital Media Design with a concentration in Motion design and Animation. Francia is excited to be a part of The Seed Center team and to be working with children in this program.

Melinda Driscoll, BT

Melinda joins the SEED Center as a Behavior Technician. She is currently attending CT State to pursue a degree in psychology. Melinda has been working in childcare for over 5 years as a babysitter. Working with kids has ignited a passion within her for creating individualized strategies that foster communication, social skills, and emotional regulation. Melinda strongly believes in building strong, supportive relationships with each child, helping them thrive in both academic and social environments. 

Kayla Sanchez, BT

Kayla Sanchez joins The SEED Center as a Behavior Technician after completing her bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Western Connecticut State University. She gained valuable experience previously working with adults on the autism spectrum in a group home setting. She is eager to start this new opportunity and looks forward to building meaningful relationships with all clients at The SEED Center.