Oh, hello...
I'm Chelsea — nice to "meet" you. Here's a bit more about me and my clinical work. If you have any questions or would like to chat about our project, my experience, or how behavioral psychology applies to everything in life... reach out!
My Clinical Background
I hold an MS in Psychology with a focus on Behavior, which I pursued with clear intent right from the start. I always knew this was the path I wanted to follow. I’m involved in various professional groups, including gestalt language processing communities and local BCBA networks like PNW BCBAs. I also engage with the PFA community and follow neurodiverse voices like Neurodivergent Lou. And for something a bit different—I’m a certified yoga teacher, though I haven’t done much with it yet!
I help Autistic individuals build essential skills for navigating the social world and living fuller, more independent lives. It’s about fostering meaningful independence so they can live life on their own terms, free from outside control.
I’ve been in the field since 2019. Before that, I spent 16 years bartending, which taught me invaluable skills like staying calm under pressure, multitasking, and problem-solving in the chaos of a busy environment. My expertise lies in working with assent, understanding each child’s unique interactions with their environment, and adapting my approach to meet them where they are. It’s about supporting their growth, not forcing them into traditional molds. I discovered ABA through a random college course, and once I started working at CARD, I couldn’t imagine leaving. Even when CARD closed, I stayed in the field thanks to the passion and mentorship I found along the way. The puzzle of human behavior fascinates me, and the human connections keep me invested.
My approach to ABA is all about keeping an open mind. I don’t go in with a preset assessment; instead, I get to know each person and work with them to define goals that fit their individual needs. Collaboration with their loved ones is always part of the process. Collaboration with other professionals is crucial for effective care. I always gather as much information as possible and work closely with specialists like SLPs and OTs, learning from them and integrating their approaches into my own practice.
The best part of the work? When you see everything fall into place. There’s nothing like the satisfaction of seeing an idea come to life and work exactly how you hoped it would. My ultimate goal is to be surrounded by a team that shares the same goals. Where we face challenges together, support one another, and show up every day for the kids. I love working in a community where we have camaraderie and the sense that we’re all in it together. I want my clients to know that their voices matter. It’s not about remembering me; it’s about them feeling heard and understanding that their behaviors are part of who they are, not something to be “fixed.” I’m excited to see the ABA field placing more emphasis on listening to Autistic voices and understanding assent. We’ve still got a long way to go, but the direction we’re heading in feels right.
My Work Beyond Behavioral Therapy
Before stepping into the clinical world, I spent over 16 years in hospitality, working as a bartender and thriving in the fast-paced, high-energy environment of the industry. At first glance, it might seem worlds apart from the work I do now, but those years shaped me in ways that directly influence how I lead and connect today. Hospitality taught me how to stay calm under pressure, juggle competing priorities, and navigate complex dynamics—all while keeping people at the center of my focus.
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Bartending wasn’t just about pouring drinks; it was about creating connection. I learned how to truly listen to people, read between the lines, and respond to their needs with empathy and care. These skills translate seamlessly into my work with children and families, where understanding and collaboration are key. The ability to adapt on the fly, problem-solve creatively, and foster a sense of trust has become the foundation of how I approach leadership, teamwork, and client care.
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Those years behind the bar also gave me a deep appreciation for what it means to work as part of a team. Leadership, to me, isn’t about authority; it’s about fostering an environment where everyone feels supported and capable of giving their best. Whether in hospitality or clinical work, I’ve always valued showing up for others, meeting challenges head-on, and finding solutions that serve the bigger picture.
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Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing about my path. Every step prepared me to bring something unique to this field and this nonprofit. I’m proud of where I’ve been and even more excited about where we’re going.