Since being established in 2013, Compass and has been serving Georgia by providing autism therapy services and bringing ABA Therapy to remote areas. By providing high-quality, intensive, research-based behavioral treatment as well as resources and support to families, we improve the lives of entire families. At Compass ABA Therapy, we recognize that every child possesses unique needs and tailor our care accordingly. Our registered behavior clinicians work closely with parents to develop an individualized treatment plan that guarantees success for every child based on their learning style. Our exceptional team of ABA therapists has extensive training in a wide range of evidence-based techniques, including early intervention as well as working with school-aged children and challenging behaviors. To meet the needs of children and their families, Compass provides services in multiple settings, including in the client’s home or in our state-of-the-art facilities located in multiple locations throughout South Georgia.
Amanda is the Compass Regional Clinical Director and together with Clinical Department Members, supervises and oversees all Registered Behavioral Technicians (RBT), Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) and Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA,) to ensure the highest standards of quality for clinical care, compliance, and training. Amanda has been working with Compass since 2014 providing direct ABA therapy to children diagnosed with Autism. Her dedication sets her apart and her care for each young learner is commendable. Amanda graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Valdosta State University. Amanda gained experience and education and obtained her QASP certification in 2016. She received training in PEAK Assessment, PECS, Parent Training and continues to receive training in the field. Amanda completed her Masters in applied Behavior Analysis and obtained her BCBA certification August, 2020. Amanda has various experience working with individuals of all ages who are experiencing challenges in the areas of behavior, communication, daily living, social, and life skills. Amanda is an exceptional provider that gives her all for the success of her clients. She continues to advocate for kids with Autism and provides outstanding services.
Natalie is the Assistant Regional Clinical Director for Compass overssing all of the clinical team from RBTs to BCBAs. Natalie obtained her Bachelor of Science in 2018 from Old Dominion University and later received her Masters from Arizona State University in 2020. In 2021, Natalie became credentialed as a BCBA. She is responsible for ensuring that the Behavior Technicians at Compass receive ongoing training and the necessary support to provide high quality ABA services to Compass’ clients. She has worked with curriculum based assessments such as, Promoting Emergence of Advanced Knowledge (PEAK), Picture Exchange Commnucation System (PECS), Verbal Behavior Milestones and Placement Program (VB-MAPP) and, Assessment of Functional Living Skills (AFLS). She is experienced with a wide variety of populations, conducting assessments, and creating treatment individualized for children with autism. In her free time, Natalie enjoys going camping with her family and watching true crime documentaries.
Sarah Bennett is the Compass Office and Regional manager. Sarah is our trusted patient and consultant coordinator and a true advocate for children with Autism. All the staff and clients know that Sarah will make sure that their needs are met in a timely manner. Sarah Bennett has a Graduate of Health Information Technology Management & Coding Diploma from Wiregrass Technical College and is local to Valdosta Georgia. She is familiar with Tricare, Private insurance policies and will work hard to get every client started in the right direction. She is always making sure that each family has latest grant information and is connected with right resources for success. Sarah is also knowledgeable in assisting new ABA practices in starting their business.
Derek is a Board Certefied Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Valdosta Area Clinical Director. Derek C. Hendley is a native of South Georgia and he has been passionately serving the Autism community for over 10 years. Derek has received an Associate of Science in General Studies through Georgia Military College and his Bachelors of Science in Psychology in 2016 with Concentration in Applied Behavioral Analysis( ABA) through Kaplan University. Derek successfully completed and has obtained his QASP certificate. Derec recieved Masters of Applied Behavior Analysis and ceertification of BCBA. He has received training in PEAK Assessments, and continues to broaden his knowledge in the field. Derek strives to provide exceptional education, support, and evidence-based care for his clients whether in the home, schools or community. He is an exemplary role model and his caring nature sets him apart. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, being in the outdoors, serving at his local church, and volunteering for various community organizations/non-profits such as the Boy Scouts and local food banks.
Tamara is the Clinical Director for the Warner Robins Clinic. She received her Bachelor’s of Science in Education with an emphasis on Speech-Language Pathology from the University of West Georgia in 2016. Tamara went on to graduate from the University of Dayton with her Master’s of Applied Behavior Analysis. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, listening to music, and traveling.
Emily is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and the Area Clinical Director at the Thomasville clinic. Emily enjoys growing her extensive knowledge and experience that started when she began working in the field in 2020. She received her Bachelors of Arts in Theatre Studies from the University of Central Florida in 2016 and her Masters of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis with an Emphasis in Autism Spectrum Disorder from Ball State University in 2022. Emily has received training in PEAK Assessments and AAC Devices. She has experience working with clients in the clinic, school, and home settings. She uses her enthusiasm, dedication, and passion to help achieve meaningful change for all her clients and their families. Emily provides compassionate guidance that sets an example of excellence across the practice. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and her Corgi, Asher, as well as watching reality tv and true crime documentaries.
Susan received her undergraduate degree from Central Michigan University and continued her eudcation by receiving her Masters of Arts in Music from Florida State University in 1986. Susan continued her study and finished the Applied Behavior Analysis Sequence Classes from University of West Florida in 2015, finishing Independent Field Work and received her BCBA certification. Susan’s experience was gained through the Georgia Department of Developmental Disabilities as a case manager as well as working in the field as a BCBA Supervisor with Compass. Susan completed PEAK assessment training and is experienced in conducting functional behavioral assessments; and developing behavior intervention plans for individuals diagnosed with Autism.
Alicia has joined Compass team summer 2022. Alicia has graduated in December 2019 with a Master of Special Education with an Emphasis in Applied Behavioral Analysis from the University of Nevada. She also holds a Bachelor of Human Services with certification as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed Behavior Analyst. Alicia is passionate about improving the lives of children and young adults with autism by teaching functional and pivotal skills to increase social skills and overall well-being. Alicia is a well knowledgeable provider that provides various assessments such as VB MAPP, ABLLS, EFL, AFLS, Vineland, Gars 3, PEAK. She also is experience ion supervising RBTs as well as providing parent training.
Illycia is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst based in our Thomasville office. Illycia holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Drama education from Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts,and has accumulated seven years of teaching experience, showcasing a unique blend of artistic insight and educational expertise.
In 2023, Illycia achieved a Masters of Arts degree from Florida Institute of Technology, further enhancing their knowledge and skills in behavior analysis. With a focus on patient-centered care, Illycia demonstrates high proficiency in employing a variety of behavior analytic interventions to address a wide array of behavioral issues.
Lyndon Del Rosario (Peter) is the clinical lead advisor, and oversees all Behavioral Technicians, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) and Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) contractors to ensure the highest standards of quality for clinical care. Peter obtained his Bachelor of Arts, Psychology from St. Meinrad College, St. Meinrad, IN. Peter is a Board Certified, Assistant Behavior Analyst, June 2000 Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc. State Certificate, Associate Behavior Analyst, October 1999 Dept. of Children & Families, State of Florida. Peter has been in the field of Applied Behavioral Analysis for over 20 years. His extensive field knowledge includes working for The Mental Health Center of Jacksonville, Henry and Rilla White Foundation, Duval County Schools, University of Florida, Department of Children and Families, Daniel, and River Point Behavioral Health. His experience lies in consulting/training caregivers, teachers, parents, foster parents and other providers. He also has experience conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments; VB-MAPP and PEAK. Lyndon (Peter) is an amazing teacher, loved by staff and patients for his caring and patient nature.
Emina is a highly-qualified mental health provider with over 17 years of experience. She completed her Master's degree in Psychology in 2013 and began intense work providing therapeutic interventions, diagnostic interventions, and hospital services for children and adults with Autism and developmental mental disabilities. Emina has shown consummate care and expertise in her field, which has enabled her to join the Compass team at the Valdosta Clinic in 2022. There she is furthering her education and experience by concentrating on learning therapeutic interventions for ASD populations, with the goal of becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Brittany joined the Compass team as an RBT in early 2023. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health from Middle Georgia State University in 2017. Before this she worked as an online ESOL teacher and was a stay at home mom. She has three children that she loves hanging out with. She is an active co-leader for her daughter’s Girl Scout troop. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, photography, arts and crafts, watching movies, and playing games.
Ariel is our Valdosta Assistant Clinical Supervisor. Ariel is a Qualified Autism Service Practitioner Supervisor, QASP-S and and was Assistant RBT Manager in our Valdosta Clinic and currently moved to a position of an assistant clinical supervisor as she is progressing in her MAster Program leading toward BCBA. Ariel completed BS in Psychology at Montana State University and is currently enrolled in the Masters program and Independent Field Work working towards BCBA certification. Ariel is currently enrolled in a Masters program and completing her Independent Field work hours leading toward her BCBA Certification.
Taylor is a Qualified Autism Services Practicioner- Supervisor (QASP-S) at our Warner Robins clinic. Prior to obtaining her QASP-S Certification Taylor was a long standing Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and is a part of the Compass clinical team. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Development at Georgia Southern University in 2019 and her Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University in 2022. In her free time, Taylor enjoys spending time with her family.
Amila is the Compass Behavioral and Developmental Consultants LLC. Management, Marketing, and Administrative Partner. Amila has been working in the behavioral services field for approximately 6 years, and continues to advocate for families impacted by autism, by helping families find services, receive grants, and other resources available to children with autism. Amila is a mother of two children with autism and personally knows the challenges for those affected by Autism, and has been an advocate for not only her children, but also for all families that are living with the challenges of raising children on the spectrum. Her family dream is to open a non-profit Group Home for young adults affected by Autism, and allow them to experience productive and independent living.
Rodney Smith is the Compass Behavioral and Developmental Consultants LLC Financial and Human Resources Advisor. Rodney retired on January 1, 2014 at the rank of Master Sergeant, after proudly serving in the Air Force for 24 years. His service included a deployment to Afghanistan and other overseas assignments. He is the father of two children on the Autism Spectrum, and strongly advocates for children with disabilities. Rodney has received an Associates Degree (AA) in Human Resources and an AA Degree in Space Operations.
Leah is a dedicated and invaluable asset to the Compass office in Thomasville. With her remarkable work ethic, she serves as the lead office staff manager, completing tasks with enthusiasm and excellence. Leah demonstrates her passion by going above and beyond for our clients, providing them with the highest level of care possible. As a passionate leader, she keeps the administrative department running smoothly and assists the Regional Clinical Director in any way necessary. We are so lucky at Compass to have Leah as part of our team!
Liz is an enthusiastic and diligent member of the Compass Team who makes sure everyone is taken care of! As patient coordinator for the Valdosta Clinic, she ensures that paperwork is submitted to insurance promptly and efficiently. She is committed to her goals with a focus on customer satisfaction and relationship building. Liz joined in mid 2021 and already has established herself as a valued team member. She puts her whole heart into assisting staff and clients alike with compassion and excellent communication skills.
Emina is a highly-qualified mental health provider with over 17 years of experience. She completed her Master's degree in Psychology in 2013 and began intense work providing therapeutic interventions, diagnostic interventions, and hospital services for children and adults with Autism and developmental mental disabilities. Emina has shown consummate care and expertise in her field, which has enabled her to join the Compass team at the Valdosta Clinic in 2022. There she is furthering her education and experience by concentrating on learning therapeutic interventions for ASD populations, with the goal of becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Ariel is our Valdosta Assistant Clinical Supervisor. Ariel is a Qualified Autism Service Practitioner Supervisor, QASP-S and and was Assistant RBT Manager in our Valdosta Clinic and currently moved to a position of an assistant clinical supervisor as she is progressing in her MAster Program leading toward BCBA. Ariel completed BS in Psychology at Montana State University and is currently enrolled in the Masters program and Independent Field Work working towards BCBA certification. Ariel is currently enrolled in a Masters program and completing her Independent Field work hours leading toward her BCBA Certification.
Illycia is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst based in our Thomasville office. Illycia holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Drama education from Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts,and has accumulated seven years of teaching experience, showcasing a unique blend of artistic insight and educational expertise.
In 2023, Illycia achieved a Masters of Arts degree from Florida Institute of Technology, further enhancing their knowledge and skills in behavior analysis. With a focus on patient-centered care, Illycia demonstrates high proficiency in employing a variety of behavior analytic interventions to address a wide array of behavioral issues.
Will is the Training Coordinator for our Valdosta and Thomasville clinics. Will is a Qualified Autism Service Practitioner Supervisor QASP-S and part of Compass clinical team in our Valdosta Clinic. Will is a Qualified Autism Service Practitioner Supervisor and part of Compass clinical team in our Valdosta Clinic. Will completed his BA in Psychology at Valdosta State University. In 2021 Will is starting a Master's program leading towards BCBA Certification.
Jasmine joined Compass in 2020. She draws on an extensive skill set to make genuine connections with those she work with. Jasmine’s meticulous nature and undying dedication helps ensure that every client receives the individualized care they need and deserve. She received her undergraduate degree from Georgia SouthWestern State University in 2011, with a BS in psychology and a minor in Sociology. She went on to continue her education at the University of West Florida where she received her MA in Exceptional Student Education-Applied Behavior Analysis in 2022. Jasmine has completed her independent fieldwork hours and is currently studying for her BCBA certification.
Kathryn is a dedicated and compassionate Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and an essential member of the Compass clinical team in our Valdosta Clinic. She is highly educated, having earned her BA in Health and Wellness, and has a wealth of knowledge that she uses to help children and families reach their full potential. Kathryn is committed to creating positive change in the lives of clients and helping them reach their goals.
Jessica is an enthusiastic and experienced professional who has recently joined our Valdosta Clinic as an RBT in 2022. Prior to this role, she honed her skills in the educational setting, working as a teacher and substitute teacher for early learners. She brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team, having worked with students of varying needs and backgrounds. Her positive attitude and dedication to excellence make her an invaluable asset. We are glad to have her on board!
Kourtney is an experienced Registered Behavior Technician who recently joined our Valdosta clinic. She has achieved a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of North Georgia in Dahlonega, GA. Since 2021, Kourtney has been dedicated to providing excellent service to children diagnosed with Autism and has emerged as an integral part of their treatment teams. Kourtney brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our clinic, exhibiting outstanding professionalism in her practice.
Charaty is a driven and passionate psychology student who recently joined Compass Valdosta in 2022, working towards her Bachelor's degree. She has experience in the classroom setting, having acted as an assistant to a teacher for several years prior to starting her college career. Charaty is highly motivated and dedicated to achieving her academic goals, with an expected graduation date of 2023.
Maylee is a Registered Behavior Technician and the Assistant RBT Manager at the Valdosta clinics. Maylee began working with children with autism after working in a general education classroom and noticing a need for more support with her students with autism. Maylee received her Associates of Art in Elementary Education in 2020 and plans to attend Perude Global for her Bachelors of Science in Applied Behavioral Analysis. Maylee uses her experience as a neurodivergent adult to provide compassionate and meaningful services under the BCBA’s guidance.
Harmony started out having an interest in ABA in fall of 2020 as an undergraduate at UCF. This became a path that led her to gaining her RBT that following February, graduating with a Bachelors in Clinical Psychology in May, and earning her QASP-S that December. From the start she has continued to grow and maintain her status, hitting the ground running at a local ABA clinic in her hometown, then moving to Savannah and pursuing a career of assisting neurodivergent children and military families in Georgia. She is seasoned with experience and knowledge and hopes to always be a supportive leader to her staff, as well as a person who is willing to listen and learn from her supervisors and others. If there was one thing she would want people to describe her as, it would be: benevolent.
Tamara is the Clinical Director for the Warner Robins Clinic. She received her Bachelor’s of Science in Education with an emphasis on Speech-Language Pathology from the University of West Georgia in 2016. Tamara went on to graduate from the University of Dayton with her Master’s of Applied Behavior Analysis. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, listening to music, and traveling.
Taylor is a Qualified Autism Services Practicioner- Supervisor (QASP-S) at our Warner Robins clinic. Prior to obtaining her QASP-S Certification Taylor was a long standing Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and is a part of the Compass clinical team. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Development at Georgia Southern University in 2019 and her Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University in 2022. In her free time, Taylor enjoys spending time with her family.
Brittany joined the Compass team as an RBT in early 2023. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health from Middle Georgia State University in 2017. Before this she worked as an online ESOL teacher and was a stay at home mom. She has three children that she loves hanging out with. She is an active co-leader for her daughter’s Girl Scout troop. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, photography, arts and crafts, watching movies, and playing games.
Ailaina is the RBT Manager at the Warner Robins Clinic. Ailaina joined the Compass family in April of 2023! Ailaina is currently attending Georgia Military College majoring in Social Work. In her free time, Ailaina enjoys spending time with her family and reading a good book.
My name is Samantha. I’m approaching my one year mark here at Compass and I must say… the smiles I see on my clients face bring more joy to what my purpose as a RBT is. From providing quality care to helping children meet their goals is the best reward yet. My ambition is to further assist clients reach their highest level of potential through their journey in every day life. I believe every experience is a learning one. Guiding my little siblings through their own personal journeys is one of the reasons I became a RBT. Family is crucial in strengthening the lives of the youth. Therefore on my spare time, you can find me coloring with my little sister, learning how to braid her Barbie’s hair, or trying to help my nephews condition for sports they are currently interested in. It’s a good feeling knowing my job is done and I can sit back, enjoy a cup of coffee with a good book or tv show to catch up on.
Marina is an experienced RBT and a part of our clinical team in Warner Robins. She has over 2 years of ABA experience working with early learners to teens. She graduated with honors from Middle Georgia State University in 2016 where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Marina is curently enrolled at Capella University pursuing a Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis with an emphasis in Autism. In her free time she enjoys practicing yoga, dance, and spending time outdoors.
Hi everyone! I’m Tamira Royster. I received my Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Georgia State University in 2017. I have been a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) for 2+ years and love the ABA field. I have a 5 year old daughter I absolutely adore. We love spending time together, cooking, baking and being with our family. I personally enjoy watching anime, playing video games and reading manga/books in my spare time.
Jamari joined the Compass team as an RBT in October of 2022. Jamari obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Albany State University, where he was inducted into the Psi Chi, the international honor society in Psychology along with Sigma Tau Delta, the international honor society in English. Also, Jamari is a Fall 2019 initiate into the OLDEST and Coldest Divine 9 Greek-lettered organization – Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, inc. In May of 2022, Jamari obtained his Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences from Barry University. In Jamari’s spare time, he loves spending time with his family, doing charity work/ assisting people, traveling, and learning new things. One of Jamari’s favorite quotes is by Ava Duvernay: “if your dream only includes you, it’s too small.’
James is the RBT Manager for the Warner Robins clinic. He is an experienced RBT with around 3 years in the field. James received a Bachelors in Psychology with a focus on Counseling from Middle Georgia State University. He is currently working on obtaining a Masters in Special Education in ABA Psychology at Arizona State University Online. In his spare time, James enjoys spending time with his friends and family while camping or at board game nights.
Shay joined Compass in early 2023 and is a part of the Warner Robins Team. She earned her Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Valdosta State University in May 2023. In her free time, Shay enjoys spending time with family and going shopping.
Leah is a dedicated and invaluable asset to the Compass office in Thomasville. With her remarkable work ethic, she serves as the lead office staff manager, completing tasks with enthusiasm and excellence. Leah demonstrates her passion by going above and beyond for our clients, providing them with the highest level of care possible. As a passionate leader, she keeps the administrative department running smoothly and assists the Regional Clinical Director in any way necessary. We are so lucky at Compass to have Leah as part of our team!
Liz is an enthusiastic and diligent member of the Compass Team who makes sure everyone is taken care of! As patient coordinator for the Valdosta Clinic, she ensures that paperwork is submitted to insurance promptly and efficiently. She is committed to her goals with a focus on customer satisfaction and relationship building. Liz joined in mid 2021 and already has established herself as a valued team member. She puts her whole heart into assisting staff and clients alike with compassion and excellent communication skills.
Alicia has been a passionate and driven Office Coordinator for our Valdosta Clinic since 2022. She looks forward to helping both staff members and clients alike with her dedication to excellence and her eye for detail. Alicia is determined to see every task to completion, ensuring that clients receive their paperwork quickly and efficiently. With her goal-oriented mindset, she is committed to making sure the highest standards of quality are met.
Shannon is an extraordinary asset to the Compass Team, having joined us early in 2022. She brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the team, having taken on the role of patient coordinator for the Hinesville Clinic. Unfailingly patient and goal-oriented, Shannon is dedicated to streamlining the insurance paperwork process; she takes great care to ensure that all necessary documents are submitted swiftly and accurately. We're grateful for Shannon's diligent efforts!
Faith is an integral part of the Compass team, having joined in 2020 as the Office Coordinator for the Valdosta Clinic. With her upbeat attitude and goal-oriented mindset, she strives to make sure clients' paperwork is processed for insurance claims quickly and efficiently. Faith loves being part of a dynamic team where she can help support colleagues and clients alike. She puts her heart and soul into every task she takes on, providing top-notch administrative assistance with a commitment to making sure everyone's needs are met.
Devyn has joined Compass 2023 and is currently attending LCHS. Devyn is assisting the office in Lakeland, GA.
Kegan has joined Compass 2023 and is currently attending LCHS. Kegan is our student office assistant through the Lanier County School WBL program.
Teketa joined the Warner Robins Office in 2023. Teketa is a vital part to keeping the office running smoothly and streamlining client intake. She has great attention to detail, is goal-oriented, organized and always willing to lend a helping hand to cleints, parents and staff. In her free time, Teketa enjoys spending with her family, making candied apples, go to the beach and listen to books.
