Abby Snavely joined Children’s TEAM in 2020 and serves as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst at Children’s ABA TEAM. She was drawn to Children’s TEAM after she saw the tremendous impact of TEAM’s community involvement as well as the positive clinic environment. 

Abby obtained a Master of Arts in Behavior Analysis Practice from the Florida Institute of Technology as well as a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a minor in Human Development and Family Sciences from the University of Arkansas. While attending the University of Arkansas, she mentored incoming freshmen with disabilities through the Empower Mentor program. Through her education and experiences, she now serves as a mentor at TEAM for her fellow colleagues.

Personal Insights

Abby enjoys watching the children grow into their personalities and helping families achieve a higher quality of life. She has always loved working with children and notes that children keep her on her toes. She appreciates giving children opportunities to learn through play. 

When not at work, Abby enjoys baking and being at the beach. She shares, “My faith helps me come to work with a thankful attitude, patience for kids and coworkers, and steadiness each day. It also helps me be able to love families and people that I cross paths with at work.” 

Aidan Holobowicz joined the Children's T.E.A.M. family of providers in 2021. He is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and holds a Master of Science in Special Education from Texas A.M. University. He served as a BCBA Fellow at The Grace School before sitting for his BCBA exam.

AnnMarie joined The Grace School in 2022 and serves as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She was part of the Children's ABA Team BCBA Fellows program before successfully sitting for her BCBA exam. She earned a Master of Education in Special Education with a concentration in ABA from the University of North Florida (UNF) where she graduated summa cum laude. AnnMarie was an honored recipient of the UNF M.Ed in ABA Leadership Award (2023). She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a TESL minor from the University of Arkansas, Fort Smith.

A Heart for the Individual

AnnMarie was drawn to Children’s TEAM’s values and states that is why she has stayed with the company. She notes, “With compassion and love being at the forefront of TEAM’s efforts, the children can feel that love, and those who work at TEAM can be passionate about the work they are engaged in. I love working at The Grace School because the end goal is for our students to access learning. Treatment is so highly individualized for each particular learner. Knowing the amount of high-quality care that goes into the planning and execution to help our students succeed is so special.”

Personal Insights

AnnMarie Pope reflects on two mentors in particular at Children’s TEAM that have instilled in her how to ‘love fiercely’. Her mentors have shown significant passion about the work they do and are examples to all around them. This inspires AnnMarie to work hard, care deeply, and always ask questions. These values are evident throughout her practice as a clinician.

When not at work, AnnMarie enjoys reading, photography, hiking, spending time with her pets, and finding new hole-in-the-wall eateries.

Ashton Paschke joined the Children’s TEAM family of providers in 2023 and serves as a registered behavior technician (RBT) at The Grace School (TGS) in Fayetteville. Her studies include past coursework at Southeast Missouri State University.

Holistic Care

Ashton enjoys working with children and watching them learn new skills that they can carry over to other parts of their lives. Her own children and, in particular, her son with special needs, have inspired her to see the children she treats with new eyes. She values opportunities to provide holistic care for families. 

Personal Interests & Inspirations 

When not at work, Aston enjoys all things outdoors. She also enjoys watching her kids play sports and be involved in the things they enjoy. Ashton shares that her father serves as an important role model in her life. He taught her to work hard and give her all in everything she does.

Blakelyn Martindale initially became part of the Children’s TEAM family of providers not as an employee, but as a family member to a child receiving services. This experience gave Blakelyn tremendous appreciation for the Children’s TEAM community. In 2021, Blakelyn joined The Grace School, a member of the Children’s TEAM family of providers. She serves as a registered behavioral technician (RBT).

Because of Blakelyn’s natural ease with and enjoyment of working with children, The Grace School has been a wonderful fit. She appreciates daily opportunities to collaborate with fellow colleagues and foster leadership skills.   

Personal Interests

When not at The Grace School, Blakelyn enjoys reading a good book and teaching at a cheer gym. 

Branden Woodall joined the Children's TEAM family of providers in 2024. He draws on several years of experience working both with adolescents and adults with disabilities. 

Branden’s passion for assisting individuals to better their quality of life is what drew him to Children's TEAM. He shares, “Once I observed the clinic, I instantly knew that it was the place for me. The kids, staff members, and the environment of the clinic were all very welcoming and warm.”

Branden approaches his work with a mix of creativity, problem-solving, planning, and organization. He tries to think outside the box and come up with unique solutions when needed. 

Personal Insight

Branden shares that his faith helps him find meaning, compassion, and strength in his everyday work life. He credits his faith with providing guidance and a sense of purpose which influences his approach to helping others. 

In Branden’s free time, he enjoys being on the river, spending time with his family, going to concerts, traveling, and trying new coffee shops.

Cassidy Woolery joined Children’s TEAM in 2021 and currently serves as the ABA Referral and Clinic Coordinator. She obtained her Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Arkansas. 

A Culture of Wholistic Care

Cassidy was drawn to TEAM for the variety of therapy services offered as well as TEAM’s Family and Transitional Support Services. She enjoys seeing the positive impact that therapy services have on both the children and the therapists as she interacts with many each day. She notes, “Children radiate so much joy and happiness. I haven’t gone a day at TEAM without laughing!”

The Power of Positive Impacts

Cassidy Woolery volunteered with several local non-profit organizations in NWA throughout her schooling. She also recounts various social workers and professors who instilled in her that the only way to truly serve others is to meet people where they are at. Cassidy has taken this advice to heart and her service and work ethic is readily recognized by all who work with her.

Personal Interests

When not at work, Cassidy enjoys gardening, spending time with her husband and dogs, as well as crafting.

Ciara Kelley joined Children’s TEAM in 2023 and serves as a registered behavioral technician at the Children’s ABA TEAM. Ciara holds a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Arkansas.

A Passion from the Start

While in school, Ciara completed a clinical internship at Children’s TEAM and knew it was the type of environment she wanted to work in one day. From her teen years until now, Ciara knew that she wanted to pursue a career working with children. She loves being a kid herself and connects with children through fun yet structured activities. She is passionate about getting on the level of the child and understanding the world around them through a different lens. 

Personal Insights

Ciara Kelley refers to her mom as an important mentor throughout her life. She shares, “[My mom] has always been there for me and I’ve learned from her that no matter what, you keep pushing yourself for the things you want in life. She taught me my hard work and determination can help me achieve my goals.” Ciara readily displays these characteristics through her clinical work. She enjoys seeing her clients growth and excitement as they learn new skills. Seeing their engagement and happiness makes her happy as well.

When not at work, Ciara enjoys listening to music, reading and learning about current events or history, trying new foods and restaurants, playing with her dog, watching movies/TV shows, and playing video games such as Animal Crossing.

Debbie Stovesand holds a Master of Science in Counseling with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis from California State University, Los Angeles. She joined The Grace School, a member of the Children’s TEAM family of providers, in 2023. 

Life-Long Learning

Debbie appreciates giving parents the opportunity to learn ABA techniques and become more confident in parenting their child. She has fond memories of a past coworker she admired who, when her son was diagnosed with Autism, pursued a second master's degree and certification in ABA. Debbie herself tries to emulate a similar approach to life-long learning, always studying and researching to help others.

Interest in Pediatrics

Working in pediatrics is a great fit for Debbie as she enjoys being with young children. She shares, “I love the way children see the world. It's exciting to see what motivates them and see them become more independent. I like that when relating with children you need to be creative.”

Personal Insight

Debbie grew up in Ecuador, surrounded by missionaries serving the needs of those around them. She has modeled this in her own education and career choices. She tutored children while in high school and was a camp counselor. 

Debbie credits her faith with being her daily anchor. She strives to demonstrate the teachings of Jesus, including humility and love. When not working, Debbie enjoys spending time with my family outdoors. She loves to hike, bike and explore new areas.

Elizabeth Brandecker joined Children’s TEAM in 2021 and serves as an RBT at the Children’s ABA clinic in Bentonville. She holds a Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Analysis from Ouachita Baptist University as well as a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from the University of Arkansas. She is currently working on training to be a BCBA.

Lead with Love

Elizabeth was drawn to TEAM by the environment of encouragement and positivity when she shadowed at the ABA clinic. She now enjoys working with clients to improve their quality of life and target long-term goals. She believes that children are our future. By building a strong foundation, we can help support and shape the skills that will benefit our clients. Elizabeth is motivated each day by her faith which encourages her to advocate for the families we serve. 

Personal Insights

She reflects that the BCBAs at TEAM have provided unique insights on individual support for team members to ensure quality care for all clients. Elizabeth is grateful for the experience the BCBA’s have to offer as they have modeled love and compassion to others, as well as supporting other disciplines at our clinics. She also relies on her experience being a Parent Educator with Parents as Teachers, teaching swim lessons for children with disabilities, and volunteer opportunities at Camp Barnabas. When not at work, Elizabeth enjoys playing with her puppy, gardening, paddle boarding, kayaking and volunteering in the community

Emily Bailey joined Children’s TEAM in 2018 and currently serves as a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst at Children’s ABA TEAM. Emily holds a Master of Education in Applied Behavioral Analysis with an emphasis in Autism Spectrum Disorder from Ball State University. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Speech-Language and Hearing from the University of Kansas. Emily has always loved serving individuals with disabilities. Coupled with her experience, she has family members who have special needs, so her dedication to her profession is something that she is very passionate about.

Connection & Mentoring at Children's TEAM

Emily recounts her early experiences at Children’s TEAM. She notes, “I knew that I wanted to work with children with special needs in some capacity and when I heard about The Grace School, I thought it would be a great experience. Well, a great experience turned into 1 week of observation, and I changed my entire career path. I knew within days that I wanted to work in the field of ABA and if I was going to do that, TEAM was going to be the place.”

Reflecting on her experiences at TEAM, Emily shares, “From the moment I stepped in the door, I was drawn to TEAM’s community, support, and values. I love what TEAM stands for and that we always meet families where they're at in order to serve. Our TEAM always looks out for what is best for clients, families, and staff. This coupled with the love I have for our children is what keeps me here and my heart happy each day.” 

Emily’s TEAM mentor opened her eyes to a different way of thinking about ABA. She recalls that her knowledge and confidence as a BCBA has grown as well as her ability to think critically and serve more compassionately.

Personal Insights

Emily Bailey believes that children bring a light into the world that adults can hardly match. She sees her work as a calling. There is not a day at the ABA clinic when Emily doesn’t laugh or smile at the fun things her clients are doing. Emily shares, “Because of Jesus, I know that what I am doing daily is not my work or for my benefit, but that it’s God’s work and it’s His calling. This is the foundation that I stand on and my reminder that I am serving in the exact spot I am supposed to.”

When not at work, Emily enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Whether that be relaxing at home or at a backyard BBQ, she is happiest when she is surrounded by the people she loves. She especially enjoys being outside and on the lake with her husband and her son.

Gwenyth Jones joined Children’s TEAM in 2020 and serves as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). She holds a Master of Arts in Behavior Analysis Practice from the Florida Institute of Technology as well as a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a minor in Human Development and Family Sciences from the University of Arkansas. She was honored to receive a TEAM Impact Award in 2022 in recognition of her servant leadership at Children’s TEAM. 

Approach to Care

Always striving to provide quality care, Gwenyth enjoys learning about each individual child and family, how they operate, and what makes them unique. Each day she works to provide a safe and caring place for each child and meet them where they are at. 

After completing student observation at Children’s TEAM, Gwenyth knew she wanted a part of the Children’s TEAM family of providers. She appreciates the approach to care of her Children’s TEAM colleagues and supervisors describing each as kind and caring deeply about the kids and families. 

Personal Interests & Faith Reflection

When not at work, Gwenyth enjoys walking her dogs, playing recreational soccer, hiking, working out, spending time with family, and going to the lake. Gwenyth reflects on the importance of her faith in her daily life and practice. She shares, “My faith plays a large role in my work. I always remind myself of my values as a Christian to love and serve those around me. In everything I do I strive to remind myself of my values in practice. One of my very favorite stories in the bible is about the man in Capernaum and how ordinary friends around him brought him to Jesus to be healed. I remind myself daily that I can be one of those ordinary friends and one who can help those around me see God's love through my work.” 

Exemplifying Learned Values

Gwenyth Jones shares that her father has played a significant role in her life as a mentor. He was her coach in various sports and activities growing up. He taught her to push through difficult situations, accept and learn from failure, seek out learning opportunities, and go for the things she wants to accomplish. Gwenyth exemplifies these values and experiences in her work with the children she serves. 

Haleigh Schmidt joined Children’s TEAM in 2020 as a registered behavioral technician (RBT). She currently serves children at the Children’s ABA Clinic. The values that Children’s TEAM exemplifies are what drew Haleigh to join the TEAM family. She enjoys the fun and supportive environment and thrives in knowing that she can rely on her coworkers. Haleigh holds a bachelor of science degree in human development and family sciences.

Personal Insights

Haleigh enjoys making a difference in the lives of the children she works with. She grew up around children with disabilities. This along with having family members who modeled dedication to the profession field inspired her to pursue a career in behavioral sciences. Haleigh has learned to be compassionate for those around her and strives to let that be her guide throughout her day-to-day treatment. When not at work, Haleigh enjoys going on walks with her dog, watching movies, and redecorating her house.

Hannah Stemple joined the Children’s TEAM family in 2020. She currently serves as the Director of The Grace School. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and holds a Masters of Education in Special Education from the University of Washington. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Sciences from the University of Arkansas. 

Growing Expertise

Hannah brings rich expertise to TEAM through her past experiences serving at Seattle Children’s Autism Center, The Organization for Research and Learning, as well as The Academy for Precision and Learning. Learning and teaching in these settings allowed her to see a variety of learners and methods of teaching. At TEAM, she appreciates opportunities to work with children in all walks of life and meeting each where they are.

Her husband, Blayne Stemple, also joined the Children’s TEAM family. She shares that he inspires her to continuously learn and push for the best practices that they can provide as a company and behavioral providers. She also looks up to TEAM Chief Operating Officer, Ashley Stewart, who continuously encourages her to ask hard questions.

A Heart for the Work

Hannah Stemple was drawn to TEAM’s mission of reaching beyond therapeutic services to serve families in a greater, broader capacity. She enjoys watching children make progress and develop skills, as well as meeting families and hearing how her efforts have impacted them and their child. 

She states, “I have wanted to work with children since I was a child myself. I was drawn to working with children with special needs by being exposed to neurodiverse individuals as a child. Once I started working directly with neurodiverse populations, I fell in love with being able to connect with them and see the world through their eyes.”

Personal Interests

When not at work, Hannah enjoys spending time with her family. She loves being outside, reading, and exploring.

Jackson Kuykendall joined the Children’s TEAM family of providers in 2023. He serves as a registered behavioral technician (RBT) at the Children’s ABA TEAM in Bentonville. He was drawn to the company after witnessing Children’s TEAM’s varied participation in the special needs community across Northwest Arkansas. Jackson is appreciated by his colleagues as he demonstrates great skill in his ability to connect with the children he serves.

Making a Positive Impact

Jackson loves having the opportunity to make a positive change in someone else’s life every day. He states, “I have always believed that you can make a large, positive impact in a person’s life when they are younger. This led me to wish to have that positive impact that sets up the child for a successful and fulfilling life.”

Personal Insights

Jackson Kuykendall has served in the special needs ministry at his church since 2016 as well as several Night to Shine events. He holds his mother in high regard as she is where his passion for working with children with special needs began. From the time he was young, Jackson witnessed his mother manage the special needs ministry at their church. She showed endless dedication and taught him to serve and take care of others. When not at work, Jackson enjoys spending time out of the lake fishing and camping as well as playing sports like basketball and pickleball with his friends. 

Jordan Johnson Bethea joined The Grace School in 2015 and serves as a BCBA. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the College of Charleston and a Master of Education in Applied Behavioral Analysis from the University of Cincinnati. She graduated magna cum laude.

Motivated by an Individualized Approach

Jordan was drawn to Children’s TEAM’s Christian values and emphasis on client-focused care. She believes that the best part of her job is building relationships with her clients. She is driven by a desire to give a voice to those who need an advocate.

Personal Insights

Jordan considers Children's TEAM CEO and Founder, Kym Hannah, to be an inspiration to her and others. She sees Kym as a role model for working mothers committed both to family and their professional fields. Jordan recalls learning balance, love, and empathy from her. With those values in mind, Jordan works hard to amplify those, not only in her work at TEAM, but also at her church. 

Each Sunday, Jordan volunteers in the special needs and preschool ministries at her church. Serving and giving back is very important to her. She states, “The bible calls us to serve those you have no voice. I feel that my work with children with disabilities is a direct calling from the Lord.”

When not at work, Jordan enjoys yoga, reading, swimming, hiking, and being outside.

Julisa Cerda joined The Grace School in 2023 as a Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT). She holds a Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis from Purdue University. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame.  

A Passion for Progress

Julisa enjoys being submersed in a unique work environment each day as she is able to have a front-row seat to see her students bloom. She is passionate about watching them meet milestones and overcome the challenges placed before them. 

Compassionate Care

Bringing with her a wealth of RBT experience, Julisa has learned how to be empathetic and provide compassionate care for her clients. She is also inspired by her nephew who has Autism Spectrum Disorder. Julisa wants to be among those who advocate for those who have difficulty advocating for themselves. Julisa Cerda’s past experiences allow her to bring a unique perspective to The Grace School.

Personal Interests

When not at work, Julisa enjoys traveling with her fiance, reading, and snuggling with her dog.

Kristen Keen graduated Summa Cum Laude from Northeastern State University with a Master of Speech-Language Pathology. She initially joined the Children’s TEAM family of providers in 2020 as a Registered Behavior Technician before earning her credential as a licensed speech-language pathologist. Kristen earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders with a minor in Human Development & Family Science from the University of Arkansas (2021).

Kristen has experience treating clients with varied diagnoses as well as those from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. She has treated clients with Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Apraxia of speech, Phonological and Fluency Disorders, and others. 

Kristen enjoys hands-on work with her clients. She shares, “I never have a slow day with this job which keeps it fun and exciting.” She values opportunities to build connections with the children and families. Kristen notes she has always loved working with children because of their outlook on life and how working with them becomes shaped to look like play.

When not working Kristen enjoys hiking, traveling, and trying new restaurants. 

Kristina Mealy joined TEAM in 2021 and serves as a Registered Behavior Technician. She works at The Grace School and was honored to be named a BCBA Fellow. Kristina enjoys getting to see the success and growth of each student.

Kristina holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Addiction Studies from the University of Central Arkansas. She currently attends Ball State University as she seeks out her Master in Special Education with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Spectrum Disorder. 

Personal Insights

Kristina credits her “Nonnie” for teaching her at a young age to love and serve others as well as to push herself to be her best. Her professional mentors at Children’s TEAM modeled how to put her best foot forward in serving students. Kristina sees this formation and support as the reason for her love of her work. When not at The Grace School, Kristina enjoys going to the gym and reading.

Lauren Casey Routt joined The Grace School as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in 2021. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She also holds a Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis with a concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorder from Ball State University.

Motivated by Progress

Lauren was drawn to TEAM because of the ample opportunities provided to collaborate with professionals in other disciplines. She also enjoys seeing the progress her clients are making and the impact this has on a client’s quality of life. She refers to it as a “snowball effect” that also has a significant impact on the client’s families.

Fierce Advocacy 

She recalls, “I grew up in a rural community and saw how the lack of therapeutic services greatly impacted outcomes for individuals with various disabilities. This inspired me to be part of the solution because everyone has a right to effective therapeutic services.”

Lauren Casey Routt’s mother was a special education teacher for 32 years and as such, Lauren holds her mother in high regard. From a young age, she was taught to be a fierce advocate for what is right. Lauren frequently volunteered in special education classrooms as well as the UNC Children’s Hospital School.

Personal Interests

When not at work, Lauren enjoys hiking, trying out new coffee shops, and exploring Northwest Arkansas with her husband and dog.

Lauren Murphy joined The Grace School in 2020 bringing with her years of experience both as a special education teacher and implementer of child-specific Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs. She served as a lead teacher at The Grace School prior to being named Grace School Academic Director in 2021. 

Lauren holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education with an endorsement in Special Education for preschool through 12th-grade. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Arkansas, Fort Smith (UAFS) and received special recognition as the UAFS Intern of the Year.

Inspiring Experiences

Lauren continues to look up to her 12th-grade English teacher and 3rd-grade teacher. She recalls, “[My 12th grade teacher] was the first person to tell me I would make an amazing teacher! At the time I thought she was crazy. But she really showed me I had the potential to help make a difference in other people's lives. I also had a fantastic 3rd-grade teacher who sang these silly little songs and dances at the end of the day. She made a lasting impression on me and that is something I hope to be able to do for other children and families.”

A Heart for Service

Lauren was drawn to TEAM and The Grace School, in particular, as the school combines her interests in both academic instruction and behavior analytics. She enjoys working with colleagues who share her vision of collaborative treatment and individualized goals for each student. She believes that through the work she does she is not only helping shape students, but also, their families and our community.

Lauren Murphy has always had a strong drive to help others. This inspired her to become a teacher. She soon discovered that she most enjoyed working with children with disabilities. She embraces the challenge of supporting students through their behaviors. She notes, “It is a treasure to see the ‘light bulb’ moments that each student experiences.”

Personal Interests

When not at work, Lauren enjoys spending time with her family, reading books, staying physically active, watching movies/TV, and occasional crafting.

Maddy Cease joined the Children’s TEAM family of providers in 2021. She serves as a Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT) at The Grace School. She was drawn to the company after witnessing Children’s Therapy TEAM’s varied participation in the special needs community across Northwest Arkansas and the values they exude. Maddy is appreciated by her colleagues as she demonstrates great skill in her ability to connect with the children she serves.

A Unique Perspective

Maddy enjoys seeing the difference her services make in the lives of the families she works with. She grew up around several family members with Autism Spectrum Disorder; as such, she took the love and compassion she experienced with her family and brought it to TEAM. 

Maddy also nannied four children as well as cared for many in her family- all diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. She has witnessed diverse ways of learning, play, and communicating with her family members and nanny experience. This helps her interact and connect with the children she serves at The Grace School. Inspired by fellow TEAM members, Maddy pushes herself to work hard, continually grow, and do things that may not always be easy. When not at work, Maddy mentors children with mental illness.

Mandie Gray joined Children’s TEAM as a Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT) in 2019. She currently works at our Bentonville ABA clinic and is training to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). She obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Arkansas as well as received her Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Analysis from Ouachita Baptist University. 

Fostering a Culture of Growth

Mandie was drawn to TEAM because of the focus on quality care as well as making a daily difference. She admires that TEAM is collaborative, supportive, and encourages continued education and training. Watching clients grow and change resonates with Mandie as she loves that each day is exhilarating and full of surprises.

She remarks that one coworker in particular took her under her wing and fostered a culture of grace and growth. This colleague taught Mandie the importance of individuality when approaching clients’ needs and going above and beyond to show love and compassion for them. Mandie notes, “She taught me to be patient, to give myself grace, and to work hard.” At TEAM, Mandie has taken this inspiration to heart and readily puts it into practice.

A Past Inspired by Children

Mandie Gray volunteered for the Autism Walk when she was just 13 years old! She loved watching the therapists interact with their clients and the apparent change taking place within them. Her younger brother was also involved in varying therapies that gave her a front-row seat to witness the difference therapy made.

Mandie also worked in childcare at her church where she chose to be in a room full of children with special needs and served as a nanny to children with varying disabilities.

Personal Interests

In Mandie’s free time, she enjoys trying new restaurants, going to the dog park, and reading sappy love stories. She also enjoys baking, arts and crafts, and watching Netflix.

McKinsey Stephens joined Children’s Therapy T.E.A.M. in 2021 after earning her degree from the University of Arkansas. She has a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a minor in Accounting. McKinsey works as a registered behavioral technician (RBT) and dually works as the Scheduling Coordinator for the ABA clinic in Bentonville. 

A Culture of Positivity and Growth

McKinsey was drawn to Children’s T.E.A.M. for the positive work environment and friendly atmosphere. She enjoys being surrounded by skilled, fun, and kindhearted coworkers who make working at the ABA clinic feel like home.

A fellow TEAM colleague shared, “McKinsey is fantastic! She is so organized, works quickly and is very efficient. She also is the first to jump in and help wherever needed. She is just a great human!”

Faith-based Motivation

McKinsey Stephens loves seeing her clients progress and achieve their goals. She has always had a love for children and enjoys being a part of watching them grow and succeed through her work as an RBT. She shared, “Being grounded in my faith makes this and any job more enjoyable. God works all things for our good and has placed each one of us here for a reason.”

Personal Interests

When not working, McKinsey Stephens enjoys spending time with her family. She also loves attending Razorback sporting events, and fun fact: McKinsey is a baton twirling coach!

Sowmya Vinjamuri joined Children’s Therapy T.E.A.M. in 2023 and currently works as a registered behavior technician (RBT) at Children’s ABA TEAM. She earned a bachelor's degree in social sciences and a master's degree in applied psychology both from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, India.

A Motivation to Learn 

Sowmya was drawn to Children’s T.E.A.M. for the consistency in compassionate care. She loves being able to see simple milestones snowball into great strides for the child and their family. 

Sowmya recounts, “I believe that all the children that I work with have so much to teach me about love, forgiveness, and patience. This learning is what motivates me on my most difficult days.” 

A Past Rich with Experience 

Sowmya Vinjamuri grew up in India. Lack of therapy resources in the area she grew up in motivated Sowmya to pursue an education in the field of psychology and particularly mental health services. She worked tirelessly in internship programs across India that gave her a glimpse into behavior therapy that ultimately piqued her interest in her current field. 

Her mentors in India instilled pivotal values in Sowmya that continue to influence her practice today. She shares, “[My mentors] helped me understand the purpose behind the work that I do. Although they were all highly established in their field and had many accomplishments to be proud of, what made them happy was their keen desire to make their services accessible to the most vulnerable people in India. They made efforts to visit these places over weekends, set up camps, and provide free services. I have learned from them to be kind and positive through the most difficult times in my life. I, too, would like to make those around me feel respected and valued.” 

Personal Interests 

In her free time, Sowmya enjoys spending time with her family, watching movies, cooking, and working on crafts.