Meet our Team
Michelle Bouchard, BCBA
Clinical Director
My passion is to provide children and their families the very best treatment possible. I believe treatment should be individualized and specifically designed for each client; not a cookie-cutter formula for them to follow. I enjoy every aspect of my job and feel so fortunate that I get to go to work with children and their families. I have been working in the field for over 16 years, and have experience working in families’ homes, within the school district, in clinics, and research settings.
I received my Bachelor’s in Science from Western Michigan University, where I was introduced to the field. My practicum was completed at a school designed specifically for children with autism, where I fell in love with the work, and found my niche. I then pursued my Master’s in School Psychology and became a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst.
I worked at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) doing research on early intervention with children with autism; this was part of the autism intervention research program (AIRP) Autism Center of Excellence, under Dr. Laura Schreibman and Dr. Aubyn Stahmer. I was trained in Pivotal Response Training by Dr. Schreibman (the co-developer of PRT and a leading expert in treatment for children with autism) and Dr. Stahmer (developer of Classroom Pivotal Response Teaching [CPRT]). Additionally, I was trained in how to teach social communication to children with autism developed by Dr. Brooke Ingersoll and Anna Dvortcsak. I am also well versed in Naturalistic and Developmental Behavior interventions.
Interventions Trained In:
- Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT)
- Early Intervention Developmental Model
- Positive Behavior Supports
- Picture Exchange Communication (PECS)
- Natural Environment Teaching (NET)
- Verbal Behavior
- Social Communication
- Parent Training
I look forward to an opportunity to work with you.
Jaclyn Flores
Registered Behavior Technician, MA
Over the last 4½ years of supporting children and families, I have been fortunate to grow as a clinician and see firsthand the amazing impact of the work dedicated from those involved to support the kiddos. It is so rewarding to build a bond and relationship with each family and child and find ways to support the needs to navigate in every environment, all while making therapy fun and rewarding. I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology & Human Relations from Pace University in 2018 and recently completed my Masters of Arts in Special Education (Applied Behavior Analysis) from Arizona State University in 2022. I am currently pursuing my BCBA credential to continue to be an advocate, support, and believer in all through my work with children and families.
Larissa Labs
Registered Behavior Technician, MA
I have been a Registered Behavior Therapist (RBT) for four years. Working with children has become a passion of mine while being able to make a positive impact on their lives. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Psychology and a Master’s in Special Education (Applied Behavior Analysis). I am working towards a credential to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). It has been an exciting opportunity to join the team with Believing in Change
Robert Thomas
Registered Behavior Technician
I have always been passionate about working with and assisting others. Now that I have been given the opportunity to work with Believing In Change and seeing the impact we have on the lives of others, I strive to continue assisting others. I am a California State University of San Marcos alumni with a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies to continue to pursue a career working with children.
Hannah Sandoval
My interest in a career working with children and adolescents with autism and other developmental disabilities was initially ignited when I obtained a job as a paraprofessional at an elementary school in 2018. I continued to pursue this passion and was certified as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). Shortly after I enrolled in Ball State University in the Master’s Program for Applied Behavior Analysis. In May 2022 I received my degree and am currently working towards a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential. During my time working as an RBT I have worked in the home, clinic and school settings. My experience working with clients ranges from 2.5 years old to 16 years old, as well as having mild to severe behavioral issues. I am devoted to my clients and thrive on their success and progress. Lastly, I love providing play based therapy and work in the best interest of each individual and their family.
Sabrina Ibarra
Registered Behavior Technician
I have always known that working with children is my passion. Now getting that opportunity as a Registered Behavior Technician with Believing in Change and seeing the positive impact we all make on these children’s lives is the most rewarding feeling I have experienced. I am currently a student at MiraCosta College and pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts to continue my work with children in the future. I look forward to working you and your children!
Jessica Kesler
Behavior Technician
I have always wanted to work with children and I strive to make a difference in their lives in any positive way I can. Believing in Change has given me the opportunity to continue to work with kids and provide me with more experience to guide me into being an even more positive role model.
I am a student at CSU San Marcos, earning my BA in Liberal Studies before I move on to earn my teaching credential in Special Education. I earned my Associates Degree (AA) in Early Childhood Education before transferring from my home town of Pismo Beach, CA, to come to school and continue my education.
Believing In Change team + volunteers at our Easter Extravaganza Social Skills event.
