Alena began working with individuals with autism and related disorders in 2015 as an in-home waiver attendant. During this time, she was introduced to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and trained in implementing behavioral strategies. This experience sparked her passion for working with individuals with autism and their families, as well as her dedication to ABA.

She went on to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), providing one-on-one therapy to children of varied ages in a clinic setting. While pursuing her coursework at the Florida Institute of Technology (FIT), Alena expanded her focus to caregiver consultation and in-home services. She later earned her BCaBA and gained experience training Behavior Technicians and caregivers.

Alena joined Paragon Autism Services as a Clinical Supervisor before obtaining her master’s degree in Professional Behavior Analysis and becoming a BCBA. After spending time out of state supervising intensive ABA services and consulting with caregivers for children, teens, and young adults, she returned to Paragon as the Director of Intensive ABA Services. In this role, she enjoyed overseeing client progress in the intensive in-home ABA program and mentoring BTs and BCaBAs.

Now, Alena continues to refine her expertise in caregiver consultation and is expanding her work with adults as a Therapeutic Consultation Specialist. She is deeply committed to helping individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities lead fulfilling lives while advocating for treatment that aligns with their values.

Outside of work, Alena enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter.