About Us

Rachael Cain

Regional Clinical Director

M.S. – ABA, BCBA

Rachael Cain, a Regional Clinical Director and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) serving locations in North Carolina and Virginia, brings diverse experience in Applied Behavior Analysis. Raised in a military family, she holds a B.A. in Anthropology and obtained her BCaBA certification during her undergraduate studies. Rachael furthered her education with a Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis from Drexel University and is now a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. With a focus on both clinical and operational leadership roles, she advocates for comprehensive, culturally sensitive programs to promote client independence. Beyond work, Rachael enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with family, friends, and her dog.

Elizabeth Frost

BCBA

M.S. – BCBA, LBA

Elizabeth is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with experience working with children and families across a range of needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, severe challenging behavior, and complex clinical presentations. She is currently a PhD student with some of her research focused on compassionate, ethical, and relationship-centered practices in behavior analysis. Elizabeth brings a trauma-informed, collaborative approach to her clinical work and is passionate about supporting both learners and caregivers.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, baking and cooking, and keeping up with her two dogs – a German Shepherd and a collie. Elizabeth and her husband are welcoming a baby in February 2026.

Zcharvay Ponton-Bey

Clinical Director

M.Ed. – BCBA, LBA

Zcharvay (pronounced Sharr-Vay) Ponton-Bey is a Clinical Director and BCBA in Chester, VA. She is an RVA native who holds a B.A. in Psychology from Christopher Newport University. She began her ABA career right after graduation, working as a behavior technician. She later became a BCBA student and received her master’s in Special Education with a concentration in ABA from George Mason University. Her dedication to children with autism spans over eight years, a journey that has been both her passion and her world. She has worked with individuals from ages 2-17. Her professional and personal core values are deeply rooted in authenticity and understanding. With an outgoing personality, she is committed to building meaningful relationships with her colleagues and clients! In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, and painting.

Grant Pachmayer

Clinical Director

M.S. – ABA, BCBA

My name is Grant Pachmayer, and I am a BCBA serving as clinical director for Fayetteville, NC. I have worked in the field of applied behavior analysis for 15 years with a particular focus on pairing and establishing effective clinical relationships between treatment participants, home, and alternative forms of care.

Most importantly, I look forward to connecting with our families and staff to ensure treatment is individualized and maximized for the clients we serve to achieve independence.

Dr. Carlton Sutton

Senior BCBA

Ph.D. – Sp Ed, BCBA – D

Carlton holds a Master’s degree in behavioral disorders and a Doctorate degree in Special Education and Reading, with extensive training in applied behavior analysis from Columbia University, Teachers College. He has dedicated his career to special education, using behavior analysis to support individuals with emotional-behavior disorders, learning disabilities, and autism. Carlton has worked in various roles, including as an educator, school administrator, and behavior analyst in both home and community settings. With over 25 years of experience, he is passionate about implementing evidence-based practices and promoting independence and communication skills. In his leisure time, Carlton enjoys watching movies and dancing with his family, including his wife, four children, and their dog.

Mary Goode

HR Manager

Mary Goode is a seasoned Human Resources professional with more than 15 years of experience supporting organizations through strategic HR leadership and employee advocacy. She is SHRM-certified and brings a strong foundation in compliance, employee relations, and organizational development.

A proud alumna of Fayetteville State University, Mary began her career as an elementary school teacher, where she developed her passion for guiding, mentoring, and empowering others—skills she continues to use daily in her HR career.

A native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, Mary is deeply rooted in her community. She is a devoted mom of five, proud Nana, and is happily married to her high school sweetheart. Outside of work, she’s known for her vibrant personality-and her favorite color, pink, which perfectly reflects her warm and energetic spirit.

Courtney West

BCBA

M.A. – BCBA, ABA

Courtney West is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) practicing in the state of Virginia. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from James Madison University and continued her education there, obtaining a Master of Arts in Psychological Sciences with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis. Courtney is especially passionate about supporting early learners and believes that early, thoughtful intervention can have a lasting impact on children and their families.

In addition to her clinical work, Courtney finds great fulfillment in mentoring clinicians and fostering a collaborative, supportive team environment. She values connection, growth, and shared learning within her professional community. Outside of work, Courtney enjoys playing board games with family and friends and unwinding with a good book.

Alexandra Cipriani

Senior BCBA

M.S. – BCBA, LBA

Alexandra has been working in the special education field for 8 years. After receiving her undergrad degrees in elementary education and special education, she started working in the field in various schools as a teaching assistant and head teacher serving children with all needs and on all different levels. Alex has always been a passionate advocate to the population she serves and wants more than anything to be able to give her learners the toolset to live fulfilling lives. In 2020 she decided to advance her career by pursuing a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis. Her passion continued and grew throughout her time in the master’s program and working in two different clinics. Alex is now a dedicated BCBA serving in the Richmond location. She has an advanced understanding of applied behavior analysis and an enthusiasm to keep learning.

Shamika Godbold

Clinical Director

M.S. – BCBA, LBA

Originally from The Bronx, New York, Shamika Godbold is a Clinical Director at AutismCOE in Virginia Beach, VA. As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), she is dedicated to supporting autistic children and their families through compassionate, trauma-informed care. Since beginning her career in 2015 as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), she has gained experience across schools, clinics, homes, residential, and inpatient settings—delivering person-centered, assent-based interventions that foster dignity, growth, and meaningful outcomes.

In 2023, Shamika became the first Behavior Analyst hired by The Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters to help develop its Neurodevelopmental Disorders Unit in Norfolk, Virginia. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education in Traumatology at Liberty University, with the goal of integrating trauma-informed principles into behavior analysis to advance clinical care for neurodivergent youth.

Her research interests include neurodivergent advocacy, trauma-informed care for autistic youth, severe behavior intervention, food selectivity, care coordination following inpatient discharge, and caregiver collaboration.

Outside of her professional work, Shamika enjoys traveling, reading, cooking, and spending time with her husband, two daughters (ages 3 months and 6 years), and extended family. She also proudly supports her eldest daughter’s swim, cheer, dance, and gymnastics events.

Fritz Leonard

BCBA

M.S. – BCBA, LBA

Fritz Leonard, BCBA in Richmond, VA, has years in the Mental health and ABA field. Born and raised in Bronx New York, he holds a B.S. in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis. Leonard furthered his education at Purdue Global University receiving his M.S. with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis. Leonard enjoys working out, reading, eating healthy, networking, spending time with family and friends, and playing an assortment of card games.

Amanda Carveth

Assistant Clinical Director

M.A.T., BCBA, LBA

Amanda Carveth is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and experienced clinical leader with over a decade of work across center-based, school, home, and community settings. She currently serves as an Assistant Center Director and BCBA, where she oversees clinical operations, staff development, and the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based behavioral services for children and families.

Amanda specializes in functional behavior assessment, assent-based and trauma-informed care, staff supervision, and data-driven program development. She has extensive experience training and mentoring clinicians, developing individualized intervention plans, and collaborating with caregivers, educators, and interdisciplinary teams to support meaningful, sustainable outcomes. Her leadership style emphasizes compassion, accountability, and continuous professional growth.

Prior to her clinical leadership roles, Amanda worked as a general and special education teacher, serving students across a range of academic and behavioral needs. This background allows her to effectively bridge clinical practice and educational systems, ensuring interventions are practical, inclusive, and aligned with school-based supports.

Amanda holds a Master of Arts in Teaching, dual bachelor’s degrees in Education and Special Education, and postgraduate certification in Applied Behavior Analysis. She is committed to advancing ethical, person-centered ABA practices and supporting teams in delivering thoughtful, high-quality care.

Allyson Jefferson

BCBA

M.S. – BCBA, ABA

Hi Everyone!! My name is Allyson but I typically go by Ally. I grew up on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and moved to Virginia in 2014 to attend Shenandoah University where I got my bachelors in Psychology and my Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis! I have been in the field of ABA since 2018 and have been a BCBA since 2021. When I am not working you can find me at home playing or cuddling with my two fur babies, Charlie (mini-Aussie doodle) and Zumi (Labrador Retriever)! I am excited to have joined the ACOE team and look forward to working with some pretty amazing people!

Milerne St.Vil

Training Coordinator

Milerne (pronounced Mah-Learn) recently relocated from Florida and is a dedicated member of the clinical team. With six years of experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), she has served in diverse capacities, including roles as an RBT, RBT Manager, Event Specialist, and Interim Director of Operations. Through these multifaceted experiences, Milerne has strengthened her clinical expertise and developed a deep-seated passion for delivering high-quality ABA services while fostering professional growth within her teams.

What Milerne values most about ABA is the opportunity to facilitate meaningful, measurable progress in the lives of her clients. She is equally committed to the mentorship of fellow clinicians, helping them build the confidence and sustainable skills necessary for excellence in their practice.

In addition to her clinical background, Milerne is a Veteran who served six years in the U.S. Army. Her time in the military was foundational in shaping her disciplined work ethic and her collaborative, teamwork-oriented mindset. Outside of her professional life, Milerne is a fitness enthusiast and a self-described “foodie” who enjoys exploring new experiences and staying active at the gym.

Ayteria Crow

BCaBA

M.S. – BCaBA, LaBA

Ayteria Crow received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Francis Marion University in South Carolina where she was first introduced to ABA. Starting in July 2020 she completed coursework at the University of South Carolina to become board certified. She is a Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst and has worked in the field for 13 years prior to becoming a team member at the Autism Center of Excellence. She has experience working in both clinical and home settings. Ayteria says the most rewarding part of her job is knowing that she is playing a vital role in her learners’ lives and watching them learn different things every day.

Andrew Harrelson

BCaBA

B.A. – BCaBA, ABA

Andrew Harrelson received his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Virginia Wesleyan University back in 2018 and started his introduction to ABA following graduation. In April 2020, he started his coursework through the Florida Institute of Technology to become a Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) and completed his requirements in October 2021 to become licensed. He has been in the field of ABA for 6 years both in the center and home setting and loves working with kids and their families to provide the best quality of life they can have. When he’s not working, Andrew enjoys hiking in the mountains, yoga, and running and just completed his first 10k back in May of 2024.

Sarah Young

Senior BCBA

MS, SLP-CCC, BCBA, LBA

Sarah received her Master’s Degree in Speech Language Pathology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2009. She worked under Tracy Vail, MS, SLP-CCC, at Let’s Talk Speech and Language Services for the next 5 years.

During that time, she earned her Board Certification in Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of North Texas. She went on to start her own business providing speech and language services using applied behavior analysis. Sarah is excited to share her knowledge about communication and behavior!

She loves to make jewelry out of metal (her Bachelor’s Degree is in Fine Art!) and spend time with her family at horse shows, band concerts, and lounging in Hillsborough!

Nick S

Administrative Director

Nick S. serves as the Administrative Director, overseeing operations in North Carolina and Virginia. With a strong background in billing and administrative management, and play a pivotal role in ensuring the accuracy, efficiency, and compliance of financial and operational processes. His expertise spans implementing streamlined systems, managing budgets, and fostering collaborative workflows that enhance organizational performance. He is always committed to creating efficient solutions that support both staff and clients, ensuring that every detail aligns with the organization’s mission and goals. Outside of work, Nick enjoys hiking, camping, and spending time with family, friends, and his beloved dog, embracing every opportunity to explore the outdoors.

Nereida Ortiz

Intake Manager

Nereida Ortiz also known as Tasha to everyone, Intake Manager with over 20 years’ experience in Operations.  Originally born in Brooklyn, New York.   She has three daughters, four grandsons and two granddaughters. Passionate about helping others. Loves traveling and spending time with her family.  She oversees two office managers, one in Fayetteville and one in Durham, North Carolina.

Silvester Baez

Operations Director

Silvester is a seasoned bilingual operations professional with a career in healthcare operations dating back to 2011. He brings a foundational commitment to person-centered practices, ensuring that individuals, teams, and families remain at the heart of every system he builds. As a performer in local theaters, he integrates the principles of improv into his leadership style, creating environments that are adaptable, communicative, and team-centered. With a strong background in operations management, he is known for cultivating supportive, efficient, and high-performing workplaces where people feel valued and empowered.

Guided by a master’s level education in Organizational Behavior Studies and an MBA, Silvester applies behavioral science and management strategies to strengthen workplace culture and drive meaningful results. He is dedicated to enhancing organizational systems, improving employee experiences, and promoting inclusive practices across all levels of an organization. His approach is rooted in connection, clarity, and a genuine interest in helping others succeed.

Tori

Office Manager

I’m an experienced Office Manager with a background in pediatric behavioral health and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). I enjoy creating a welcoming environment where families feel comfortable asking questions and getting the support they need. I often serve as a friendly, reliable point of contact for parents, helping them navigate scheduling, questions about services, and the day-to-day logistics of care.

I’m also skilled in the administrative and operational work that keeps a clinic running smoothly, including coordinating schedules, managing client intake, maintaining accurate records, and supporting clinical teams. Known for being approachable, organized, and solution-focused, I take pride in making things easier for both families and the staff who support them.

Courtney Pruitt

Operations Coordinator

With 12 years of experience as an Allied Health recruiter, I’ve built my career around connecting talented healthcare professionals with meaningful opportunities and helping organizations grow through strategic talent acquisition.

My background in Sociology from Appalachian State University (Bachelor of Arts) and a Master’s Degree in Human Resource Development from Clemson University has provided a strong foundation in understanding people, organizational development, and workforce strategy.
I’m excited to join the team at Autism Center of Excellence as an Operations Coordinator, where I look forward to applying both my recruiting expertise and operational insight to support our staff and the communities we serve.

Outside of work, I stay busy with my two kids, who love playing sports, and I’m actively involved in our church. I enjoy traveling with my husband, camping in Pisgah National Forest, and cheering on the Clemson Tigers.

Jennifer Head

ABA, BCBA

M.S. – ABA, BCBA

I’ve been dedicated to the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) since 2017, with a strong focus on delivering high-quality services that drive meaningful outcomes for clients. My passion extends to supervising and supporting the next generation of ABA providers, developing effective training programs, and promoting growth across every level of care.

When I’m not working, you can find me enjoying time with my cats, crocheting, gaming, or spending quality time with my family.

Dr. James Adkins

Ph.D., BCBA, LBA

Melessa Walter

M.S – ABA, BCBA

Javron Keene

BCBA, MS Behavior Analysis

Javron Keene, BCBA, serves as Clinical Director at the Autism Center of Excellence, bringing 10+ years of behavior analysis expertise. A Simmons University Master’s graduate, he previously spent six years at Kennedy Krieger Institute, focusing on severe behavior and skill development for individuals with autism and complex needs. He is known for his compassionate, results-driven leadership.

Samantha Greenough

BCBA

M.S. – BCBA, LABA

Samantha is a dedicated Board Certified Behavior Analyst with 8 years of experience in the field. She has worked with individuals ages 2-21 across a variety of settings, including in home, clinic based, and both private and public schools. Samantha was born and raised in New England before relocating to California, she has most recently provided hybrid telehealth services to clients on the East Coast and is licensed in Massachusetts and North Carolina. 

Samantha worked as a behavior technician while completing her bachelors in psychology at the University of Southern Maine. As she began seeing progress and building relationships with her families, she knew she wanted to grow within the ABA field. Samantha obtained her masters degree from Bay Path University and has been a BCBA since 2023. 

Samantha prioritizes serving as an advocate for her clients and staff. She believes in meeting families where they are at, while working to identify appropriate strategies to increase functional communication and independence. Samantha believes in establishing a positive relationship across providers to increase collaboration and provide more effective support to families. 

In her free time, Sam enjoys crafting, nature walks, or spending time at home with her partner and pets.

Kristy Parker

Interim Clinical Director

M.S. – BCBA, ABA

Kristy Parker has been working with children with autism and mental health needs since 1997. She was an early childhood special education teacher prior to becoming a BCBA in 2011. She has served as a treating BCBA, Clinical Director, Regional Operations Manager and ABA Business Consultant in the past. She has worked with children and adults of all ages and had opportunities to serve as part of an Autism Diagnostic Team, Specialized Feeding Team, IEP advocacy team and Caregiver Support Group coordinator. Kristy is also a proud mother of six wonderful children and has a child with high support needs autism.

Mahmoud Shehata

BCBA

MS — MSW, BCBA, LBA

I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA) in North Carolina, with professional experience practicing in both North Carolina and New York. I have over nine years of experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), working with children with autism and their families across diverse clinical and cultural settings.

My work has taken me internationally, including positions in Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, and I have served as an international consultant supporting ABA centers in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Through these experiences, I have worked extensively with children with autism and developmental delays across different countries and cultures.

I hold dual master’s degrees in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies from Mary Baldwin University in Virginia, in addition to a Master’s degree in Social Work. My combined training in behavior analysis and social work allows me to approach intervention from a holistic, family-centered perspective.

I am deeply passionate about creating a meaningful and lasting impact in the lives of the children and families I serve. My clinical philosophy focuses on compassionate, evidence-based practice, emphasizing assent-based care, ethical treatment, and respect for each child’s dignity and autonomy. I strongly advocate for teaching functional communication through Functional Communication Training (FCT) and implementing interventions grounded in the latest research in behavior analysis.

Through my international work, I have developed strong cultural sensitivity and awareness, allowing me to adapt treatment approaches to align with each family’s cultural values, beliefs, and needs. I strive to design and implement interventions that are not only evidence-based but also culturally responsive and meaningful for the families I support.

Carolyn McGuire

Talent Acquisition Manager

Carolyn McGuire brings years of experience in healthcare recruitment with a focus on building mission-driven teams. Before joining the Autism Center of Excellence, she helped connect talented professionals to meaningful careers in ABA therapy, dental, and allied health roles across the country. Her passion for supporting individuals with autism and neurodevelopmental differences grew during her time recruiting Registered Behavior Technicians and Board Certified Behavior Analysts — and continues to inspire her every day.

Sabrina Sarlo

BCBA

M.A. – BCBA, LBA

Sabrina is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA) who has worked in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis for the last 5 years. She has experience supporting individuals across a variety of settings—including in-home, clinic-based, and school environments—and has worked with clients ranging from toddlers to teenagers. Sabrina earned her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of South Florida and became a BCBA in 2024. She is especially passionate about helping clients develop functional communication skills that promote independence and meaningful engagement. Outside of work, Sabrina enjoys reading, gardening, and spending time with her husband and their two dogs.

Pooja Patel

Asst. Clinical Director

M.S. – ABA, BCBA

Pooja is the Assistant Director of Autism Center of Excellence at Durham, North Carolina. She has served children from ages 2 to 19 years old in a diverse array of settings, including daycares, centers, in-home, and in schools. She has been a BCBA since November 2019 and received her Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Arizona State University. She is an advocate of Functional Communication Training and always advocates to teach her clients to use functional communication to communicate their needs and wants, and empowers her clients by giving them the freedom to use communication to access what they want. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, traveling, going to restaurants, and exploring new hobbies.