Our Team

With over 25 years of executive leadership in enterprise organizations, Jeff possesses a fervent dedication to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion while nurturing a welcoming atmosphere for clients and staff alike. His pivot to Bridges signifies a heartfelt commitment to improving the lives of children with autism and special needs. Outside his career, Jeff relishes spending time with loved ones, dining out, traveling, exploring new technology, and working on home improvement projects.

Erika obtained a Master of ABA from Ball State, then became a BCBA, and has been working in the field since 2015. She is extremely passionate about the autism community and being a positive influence in the lives of others. She is committed to building personal connections with Bridges’ clients and staff. Outside of Bridges, she is an academic instructor at Arizona State University helping students achieve BCBA designation and enjoys spending time with her husband and dog, working on home improvement projects, and reading.

With more than two decades as a Director of Operations, Chris's motivation to join Bridges stems from a personal connection, with two family members on the autism spectrum, igniting his passion to create a positive impact in the lives of children with autism. Chris finds immense fulfillment in witnessing the daily progress of the kids at Bridges. Beyond his professional role, he enjoys bowling, travel, and outdoor adventures. An avid genealogy enthusiast, Chris crafted an extensive online family tree, tracing his lineage back through centuries.

Max holds a Master of Speech and Language Pathology. He is a Natural Language Acquisition trained SLP for Gestalt Language Processors and is also currently pursuing LAMP certification. He has been an SLP since 2017 and in management roles since 2021. Max had overcome his own communication barriers as a result of a medical condition, which inspired him to help others do the same. He appreciates that the staff at Bridges gives their all to bring out the best in the children they support. In his spare time, he likes hiking, working out, home improvement projects, time with loved ones, and rooting for Ohio State.

Tess earned a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Saginaw Valley State University and began working with the pediatric population in 2020. She chose this career path because of her passion for working with children and helping them become as independent as possible. She finds "being able to play all day" to help children learn independence to be so fun and loves having a career where no two days are the same. She also loves the cohesive team at Bridges where everyone is so friendly and willing to help each other out. When not at work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, son and three puppies, going to concerts, and traveling.

Rachel has a Master of OT from Grand Valley and a Bachelor of Social Work and has been an OT since 2021. She. One of her passions is working with the neurodiverse, pediatric population. Following a developmental, strengths-based approach to treating her clients, she has a particular interest in feeding therapy, sensory integration, and incorporating STEM concepts into her sessions. Outside of work, she loves mystery novels and hiking across the United States.

Jordan has a Master of ABA and has been a BCBA since 2017. Originally looking for a career working with children and stumbling across ABA, she immediately fell in love with the field. She loves that everyone at Bridges is passionate and dedicated to the kids and an effective program. She enjoys cooking, playing cards and board games, and spending time with her son, boyfriend, and their dog.

Mackenzie has a Master of Special Education, is a BCBA, and has been in the field of ABA since 2018. She began working with children with autism as a paraprofessional in special education, transitioned to clinics in 2019, and then earned her BCBA. She loves working with kids and learning the science behind behavior intervention. She enjoys working at Bridges because everyone cares deeply about the kids, their families, and their progress.

Paige has been in the field of ABA since 2018. She learned about ABA briefly during a course in her undergraduate program. Her sister also worked in the field at the time, and referred her for a Behavior Technician role. She loves how supportive and collaborative it is at Bridges, promoting play with peers and improving social skills. The clients are happy to be here and spend time with their friends. She has a Bachelor's in Psychology and Master's in ABA. In her free time, she likes to spend time with friends and family, travel and golf.

Tina has been in the field of ABA since 2012. Her passion lies in ensuring every child experiences happiness, friendship, and inclusion, and every parent hears cherished words like "I love you." She thrives on facilitating this peace for families, finding a sense of belonging at Bridges where children flourish. Tina holds degrees from Michigan State University and the Florida Institute of Technology. Off duty, she indulges in her love for reading or TV, and cherishing moments with her husband and two energetic sons.

Jennifer has a Bachelor of Psychology from Oakland University and is a BCaBA. While in college, she passed by the ABA clinic daily and was intrigued. Since she’s always loved helping others, this seemed like a good fit, so she began to pursue that coursework and has been working in ABA since 2019. She loves how kind and helpful everyone is at Bridges, and how much the kids love being here and playing with their peers. Outside of work, she enjoys concerts and photography. She also knows how to play the ukulele.

Caio is an Operations Supervisor directly supporting our Director of Operations, and also RBT who began working in ABA settings in 2020 after being introduced to it at a career fair. Since he’s always liked kids and had a natural curiosity and desire for greater understanding of behavioral sciences, working with autistic children seemed like a great fit. His favorite part of working at Bridges is that it is more of a family environment. Outside of work, he likes weight-lifting, reading, and playing video games. Caio also speaks Portuguese and is learning Italian.

Christine has a Bachelors in Psychology from Oakland University. She wanted to find a job where she could help people and make an impact on their lives. Her favorite part of working at Bridges is the positive environment and people that she gets to interface with every day. She plans to continue her education towards a Master's Degree soon. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and spending time with her sister. She has an appreciation for music and used to play the viola in middle and high school.

Jessica has a Bachelor of Psychology from Michigan State University. She has worked in the field of ABA since 2019 and is currently pursuing a Master of ABA at Ball State University to become a BCBA. Outside of work she loves spending time with friends and family and traveling.

Caitlyn has a Master of ABA from Ball State University. She came across the field by accident in 2020 and ended up falling in love with it. She likes the positive and encouraging work environment at Bridges. Outside of work, she loves spending time outdoors, adventuring and traveling. She is also a big sports fan and spends a lot of time watching MSU.

Sydney is pursuing a Bachelor of ABA at Ball State University to become a BCaBA and started in the field in 2018. Growing up, she struggled to say her name due to a speech impediment. With the help of great therapists, she overcame that obstacle which inspired her to work in a field that helped others overcome their own unique challenges. She likes the collaborative environment at Bridges and the effective programs that help the clients achieve their highest potential. Outside of work she teaches dance, likes to bake, and loves trying new restaurants.

Katelyn is an RBT and is currently studying psychology at Macomb Community College with plans to become a BCBA. She has been working in the field of ABA since 2019. She was inspired to enter the field when a good friend, who worked as an RBT, told her how rewarding it was. Her favorite part of working at Bridges is that it feels like a big family with a high level of integrity and where everyone is treated with respect. Outside of work, she loves kayaking, hiking with her dog, painting, and being a DJ on the side for fun.

Nikki boasts nearly seven years of dedicated experience in the field of ABA. Her journey began as a direct care worker, where she unearthed her deep-seated passion for the field and its remarkable community. She revels in the uplifting atmosphere at Bridges, cherishing the incredible children we serve and the unwavering support provided by our exceptional staff. Nikki's commitment to growth extends to her educational aspirations in ABA. Beyond her professional life, she finds joy in outdoor activities like hiking, exploring walking trails, boating adventures, camping, and immersing herself in the great outdoors.

Amanda is an RBT and has been in the field of ABA since 2021. She worked in retail for years but wanted more fulfilling work so, during the height of the pandemic, she started working in ABA, and she feels like she was meant for it. She very much appreciates the support she gets from Bridges’ staff and the readiness with which everyone helps one another. Outside of work, she loves playing word games and listening to audiobooks.

Jaclyn is currently studying Exercise Science at Grand Valley State University and aspires to become a BCBA in the future. She has been in ABA since 2021 and entered the field on the recommendation of her cousin, a BCBA, who suggested that she would enjoy it. She was right! She loves the friendly staff at Bridges and watching the clients learn while having fun in a supportive environment. Outside of work, she loves working out and reading.

Eric has an Associate of General Studies, is a Certified Nutrition Coach, and is a RBT. Eric has been a Behavior Technician since 2018 and entered the field of ABA because his cousin has autism and he saw the progress that he was making receiving ABA services. His favorite part of ABA is seeing the kids progress and hearing happy parents when they see ABA paying off. Outside of work, he enjoys working out and learning more about nutrition.

Rachel has a Bachelor of Criminal Justice and is currently attending Oakland University in pursuit of a Master of Social Work and certification in ABA and ultimately obtaining a BCBA. With a desire to learn more about working with children with special needs, she started at Bridges in 2022. Outside of work, she loves to read, travel, and watch movies.

Mackenzie is an RBT and currently attends Wayne State University where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Special Education. She was introduced to working with children with learning challenges by a good friend and has worked in the field of ABA since 2019. She has enjoyed the work so much that she plans to continue her education beyond her current studies and obtain a Master’s in ABA and ultimately become a BCBA. Her favorite hobbies are journaling and reading books.

Ashley currently attends Ball State University where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Special Education and plans to continue on to obtain a Master of ABA. She is eager to learn everything she can about ABA so that she can help kids and teens, especially those in the juvenile justice system. She loves the high-morale atmosphere at Bridges where everyone cares deeply about the kids and the quality of care they are providing. Outside of work she loves going to hockey with her nephew and hanging out with her dog Suka and once played softball in college.

Riley is an RBT and has been in the field of ABA since 2021. Since being diagnosed with autism as a child, she knew she wanted to help others on the spectrum. In high school, she took practicum courses where she assisted those with ASD, teaching them daily life skills and independence and decided to pursue it as a career. She loves hearing from parents about the progress their child has made as a result of ABA. Outside of work she likes reading, biking and video games.

Sierra has a Bachelor of Psychology and is in the process of completing a Master of Social Work with a focus on interpersonal practice. Frequently hearing about ABA and being interested in working with children, she joined Bridges to pursue work in this field. She loves meeting all the many kids at Bridges and how welcoming the staff are. She hopes to eventually work in a school or provide family and couple's therapy. Outside of work, she enjoys working out and cooking.

Madelyn just started in the field of ABA. She is studying Speech Language Pathology, has always loved working with kids, and thought this would be a great way to work with kids one-on-one and help them to achieve their goals. She loves how inclusive the staff and kids are at Bridges. She is currently a senior at Michigan State University majoring in Communicative Sciences and Disorders. In her spare time, she loves going to concerts and cooking. She also has a twin sister.

Maddie is new to the field of ABA. She chose to work in the field because she is passionate about making sure that kids are given the resources and opportunity to be successful adults one day, and the science behind ABA fascinates her. She loves when a client achieves a target they have been working at. She is currently double majoring in Psychology and Child Development at Central Michigan University. In her off time, she loves working out, yoga, hiking and cooking and loves Taylor Swift.

Emily is studying psychology at Oakland University and plans to pursue a Master of Social Work. She was introduced to the field of ABA by her sister who told her how rewarding it is seeing clients achieve their goals. She loves the way the staff at Bridge works as a team and being able to work with clients one on one. In her spare time, she loves to read, watch movies, and listen to Taylor Swift.

Huy is studying Psychology at Wayne State University. He spent 6 years working at a Boy Scout Summer camp which led him to want to work with kids. Ultimately, his goal is to become a High School Guidance Counselor. He loves the friendly and supportive work environment at Bridges. Outside of work, he is a photographer, streamer, wrestling coach, and ultimate frisbee player. 

Meriah earned a Bachelor of Psychology from Rochester University. After working in other service industry jobs, she was looking for more fulfilling work and transitioned to ABA. She previously volunteered in a music therapy program for children and adults with autism and particularly loves working with children. She is originally from Cananda and moved to the US in 2017. Outside of work, she enjoys watching sci-fi/fantasy shows, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.

Hailey graduated high school at the age of 15 and earned an Associate of Social Work at 18. She’s currently taking a break from her studies but plans to return to earn a degree in the area of behavioral therapy. She has always wanted to work with kids in a clinical setting and fell in love with ABA. She began at Bridges in 2023 and loves seeing the progress the kids make and being part of their journey. Outside of work, she likes to draw, listen to music, workout, and do makeup.

Courtney is pursuing a Bachelor of Psychology from Oakland University. She loves working with kids and having a nephew on the Spectrum led her to want to learn more about how to better help the autistic population. She began at Bridges in 2023 and loves the sense of community and eagerness to help. She also loves seeing all the kids and the diversity of their personalities. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, going to concerts, and being outdoors.

Natalie earned a Bachelor of Psychology from Oakland University and is currently pursuing a Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Previously working in nursing home settings, she came across ABA in 2022 and really liking it decided to pursue working in the field. She loves that Bridges focuses on what is best for the kids like the open learning environment that doesn’t feel clinical which creates more opportunity for the kids to thrive. Outside of work, she enjoys crocheting, reading, and spending time with her dogs and calls Christmas Eve her favorite holiday.

Tricia is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology and Community Diversity at Wayne State University. She has worked parallel to the field of ABA for many years as a Program Director and Paraeducator in the public school system. Being exposed to the ASD community for most of her life, both personally and professionally, she feels her experiences give her a unique ability to positively impact the lives of the children and families with whom she works. She appreciates how dedicated the Bridges staff is to every child’s individual needs and loves the diversity and inclusion of the Bridges family. Outside of work, she is a mother of four and enjoys spending time outdoors, painting, and learning new things and meeting new people.

Crystal has over 20 years of experience in the medical field, most recently as a licensed paramedic. She has a nephew with autism and saw firsthand how ABA therapy improves life skills. Her favorite part of Bridges is the team environment and the excitement that everyone has when clients reach their goals. Outside of work she loves being outdoors, playing golf, reading, going to concerts and spending time with her husband and puppies.

Since July 2017, Heather has been dedicated to ABA, driven by a passion for helping others. At Bridges, the rewarding environment, inspiring children, supportive families, and dedicated team make every day fulfilling. She graduated with a bachelor's in criminal justice in 2014, and her interests extend to competitive horse riding and volunteering for horseback therapy. As a devoted parent and grandparent, she cherishes family time and shares a love for sports.

Abbey has been in ABA since 2020. She chose to work in ABA because she has a cousin with autism who she adores, and seeing how ABA helped him so much made her want to help others in the same way! Her favorite part of working at Bridges is how warm and welcoming it is. She is attending Oakland University working on her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, and then plans on attending grad school to become a BCBA. Her favorite hobbies are spending time with friends and family and watching University of Michigan football!

Melanie has been in the field of ABA since 2017. She chose the field because of her love for children and wanted to make a difference in their lives. She loves the positive environment and everyone is so helpful and professional. Melanie completed her Bachelor's in Family Life Education and Associate's in Psychology. She enjoys outdoor adventures, hiking, kayaking, gardening, cooking, photography, spending time with her husband and loved ones, and is a huge animal lover!

Kaylee has worked in ABA since 2020. She chose to work in the field because one of her former coworkers went into the field and thought she would be great at it. She took the chance and has enjoyed it a ton. Her favorite part of working at Bridges is that the rest of the staff works together really well, provides a team effort, and makes it a great environment for the kids. Outside of work, Kaylee really enjoys reading, baking, and doing art.