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.

Jessica Hudson

Clinical Director

Jessica is the Clinical Director and BCBA based in Durham, NC. Originally from Charleston, SC, Jessica has lived and worked in South Florida and all over the state of South Carolina, before making her way up to North Carolina and settling in Raleigh. She received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Florida International University and her Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University. Jessica has been in the field of ABA since 2008 and has worked in home, school, and center settings over the years. She enjoys and has extensive experience working with families to more successfully navigate the unique challenges that come with parenting. She has experience with individuals ages 18 months to 21 years old and, like Florina, is an advocate for early intervention and verbal behavior programming. Jessica is passionate about communication development in learners of all ages to ensure everyone has a chance at finding their voice.

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.

Desirea Satterwhite

Clinical Director

Ph.D. – ABA, M.A., B. S. in Psychology

Desirea Satterwhite is a dedicated Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Associate Clinical Director with a diverse background in psychology, criminal justice, and counseling psychology. Originally from Pennsylvania, she has proudly called North Carolina home for the past 15 years. After completing her service in the military, Desirea pursued her undergraduate degree in psychology and criminal justice, exploring her interests in various fields. During her studies in counseling psychology, she discovered Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and found herself captivated by the science behind it. Desirea’s journey in ABA began as a 1:1 technician, working closely with children on the autism spectrum. Her enthusiasm for ABA led her to advocate for parent involvement and support, recognizing the profound impact it has on the well-being of all children. She is particularly passionate about early childhood intervention, fostering collaboration between parents and schools, providing parent/caregiver training, and implementing functional communication training.

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.

Allison Holder

Senior BCBA

M.S. – ABA, BCBA

 Allison Holder is the Licensed BCBA based in Durham, NC. She has been proud to call North Carolina home for her entire life. She possesses a B.S. in Sociology with a concentration in families and intimate relationships from Appalachian State University, and an M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis from Capella University. Allison has spent the last five years working in the field of psychology and behavioral health with learners ranging from 2 to 18. She has worked in residential homes, group homes, schools, and clinic-based settings. Allison is a fierce advocate in both her personal and professional life and strives to empower all children to both maximize their potential and find their joy. She believes in connection over compliance and utilizes an assent-based, learner-led intervention style to foster self-advocacy skills, functional communication, and trust.

Marissa Taylor

BCBA

M.A. – ABA

I graduated with my undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Cincinnati in 2018. I received my master’s in Applied behavior analysis from Purdue Global University in 2020. I have worked in the ABA field for over 3 years working directly with clients in the early intervention stage. I have experience working with children ranging from ages 2-14 years old in a variety of settings (schools, homes, daycares, and clinic). In my free time, I enjoy being around my friends and family playing games or watching movies. I am very excited to be a part of the Autism COE family, and help my clients and their families!

Alexandra Cipriani

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.

Jessica Brown

Senior BCBA

M.S. – BCBA, LBA

Jessica Brown is a compassionate Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed Behavior Analyst with a diverse background in psychology, customer service/interpersonal relations, and ABA. Jessica is a native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, and an active participant in the community. After completing her bachelor’s program in psychology from Fayetteville State University, Jessica completed her master’s program (with a concentration in aba) from Kaplan University in 2013. Jessica’s journey in ABA began as a 1:1 registered behavior technician, working closely with children on the autism spectrum. Jessica is highly skilled in the areas of early childhood intervention, behavior reduction, parent/caregiver training, and implementing functional communication training.

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.

Shamia Johnson

BCBA

M.S. – BCBA, LBA

Shamia Johnson is a devoted Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed Behavior Analyst. She has a background in psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis. Shamia was born in Fort Bragg and raised in Fayetteville. She has remained an active participant in her community throughout her life. Shamia attained her bachelor’s degree from Fayetteville State University before completing her Master’s program at Capella and attaining her degree in psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis. Shamia used her bachelor’s degree to jumpstart her career, beginning in ABA as an RBT conducting 1:1 sessions with children and teenagers diagnosed with ASD. Shamia is skilled in the areas of behavior reduction, functional communication training, and early childhood intervention.

Joy Owolade

BCBA

M.S. – BCBA, ABA

Joy Owolade is a BCBA in Chesapeake, VA, and has diverse experience in Applied Behavior Analysis working in different settings and with different age groups. She holds a B.A. in Psychology and obtained her master’s in psychology and applied Behavior Analysis from Capella University and is a Behavior Analyst with a focus on Behavioral instructional design and curriculum development. She is a member of The Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COOPA) and is actively involved with Protecting the legal and civil rights of students with disabilities and their families. Beyond work, Joy enjoys volunteering her time helping children and adults in her community and also enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her 2 birds.

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!

Joanne Valcin-Dickson

BCBA

M.S. – BCBA

Hello everyone my name is Joanne, I am a dedicated professional with over 10 years of experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. Originally from New York, moved back to North Carolina recently after living in Texas for the past 9 years to join the wonderful team of ACOE. I recently graduated with my Master’s degree from the Florida Institute of Technology in Behavior Analysis Practice. My journey in ABA started back in 2012 and worked in various settings as an RBT. I obtained my Qualified Autism Service Practitioner-Supervisor Certification in October 2023. My experience spans various roles, where I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to improving the lives of individuals through effective intervention strategies. I am currently completing my supervision hours to sit for the BCBA exam to further enhance my skills and contributions in the field. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my kids, engaging in activities such as hiking, cooking, board games, and tons of movie nights.

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.

Neiva Rivera

Senior BCBA

M.Ed. – BCBA, LBA

Neiva has 14 years of experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), she is dedicated to helping children and their families achieve meaningful progress. She holds a B.A. in Communication Disorders and an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction. As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA), Neiva is passionate about collaborating with parents and caregivers to create impactful, individualized experiences that support each child’s growth and development. She has worked with individuals aged 3 to 21 years old, providing services in diverse settings, including home, center, and school-based environments.

Mahmoud Shehata

BCaBA

M.S. – ABA, MSW

Mahmoud Shehata is a dedicated professional in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with over 8 years of experience. A Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) and QABA-certified Behavior Analyst, he is fluent in Arabic and English, allowing him to connect with diverse clients effectively. He earned a master’s in ABA from Mary Baldwin University in 2023 and a master’s in Social Work from Helwan University in 2020. Starting as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) in Egypt, Mahmoud gained hands-on experience and later worked in clinics in Dubai, Egypt, and New York as a clinical supervisor and behavior consultant. Mahmoud’s bilingual skills and cultural competence enable him to deliver personalized, evidence-based interventions, driving meaningful progress for individuals and families.

Nick S

Billing and Admin Director

Nick S. serves as the Billing and Admin Director, overseeing operations in North Carolina and Virginia. With a strong background in billing and administrative management and plays 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.

Courtney Jones

HR Professional

Courtney Jones, MHRM, SHRM-CP is a certified HR professional with a Bachelors degree in Media and Communications and a Masters degree in Human Resources Management. She has 4 years of HR experience and has a passion for developing organizations and creating spaces where talented professionals can thrive.

Clarissa Riggleman

BCBA – Training and Compliance Specialist

M.S. – ABA, BCBA

Clare is the Training and Compliance Specialist for AutismCOE. She has her master’s degree from Shenandoah University in Applied Behavior Analysis with over five years as a BCBA. She has worked with a wide range of ages from two to seventeen years in school, community, daycare, clinic, and home settings. She is passionate about assent-based care and growing her team’s clinical skills. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking and exploring the Triangle area. She has two dogs and two cats and will always show pictures.

Nicole Ashkar

Clinical Director

M.S. – Ed, ABA

Nicole began her ABA career in 2017 as an RBT in California, developing a passion for helping children achieve their goals through behavior science. She earned a master’s degree in Education with a focus on ABA from Arizona State University in 2019.

With experience in leadership roles across crisis care, in-home services, schools, and clinics, Nikki is currently serving her second term as a BACB Subject Matter Expert. She specializes in interdisciplinary collaboration, mentoring students during fieldwork, and using active learning strategies to connect clinical knowledge with practical ABA applications. Her private practice focuses on supporting clients with rare genetic comorbid diagnoses, a population she is deeply committed to serving.

Nikki is dedicated to improving outcomes for individuals with complex needs, mentoring clinicians, and expanding access to compassionate, personalized care. In her free time, she enjoys outdoor adventures with her husband and two Dalmatians, finding inspiration in nature.