Team

Israel Benedek

Israel Benedek

Founder’s Vision

I started this journey as a father. When my son was diagnosed with special needs, I saw how difficult it was to find the right resources and support. I didn’t want other families to go through the same struggle, so in 2006 I founded Braverhood, originally called Hand in Hand Family Services. It began as a way to connect families like mine with services, guidance, and hope.

As I worked with more families, I realized that children with autism needed even more direct, specialized care. That’s why, in 2013, I co-founded BK Behavior- an ABA company focused on helping kids with autism grow, learn, and thrive.

At BK Behavior, our mission is simple: make high-quality ABA therapy accessible to families everywhere, especially those in underserved communities. Every child deserves the chance to reach their full potential, and every parent deserves to feel supported on that journey.

What started with my son’s story has grown into something much bigger- a community, a network, and a company dedicated to helping as many children as possible live fuller, brighter lives.

Hadassah Baum

Hadassah Baum

Leadership Philosophy

I began my career in ABA in 2016 on the operational side, where I quickly discovered the joy of doing work that has a lasting impact on children with autism and their families. Over the years, I worked my way through different roles, eventually joining BK Behavior, where I first oversaw CBS as one entity and, in June 2023, stepped into my current role as COO.

I am deeply passionate about caring for our people—both in the office and in the field—and about building a healthy, thriving organization where culture is strong and people truly want to spend their time. I love helping others, learning continuously, and growing not only as a leader myself but also by developing and empowering our leadership team. Most of all, I find joy every day in the work we do and the lives we touch.

"People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care."

Sam Blanco

Sam Blanco

Clinical Perspective

My journey began with uncertainty in 2001 when I took a job as a respite care provider with no idea I was about to discover my life’s passion. In my first week, I realized I was in way over my head.

Everything changed when my client’s BCBA explained a few basic ABA strategies. Things turned around with my sessions, and my client and I were having so much fun. Over the past two decades, this unexpected beginning has blossomed into an extraordinary career spanning NYC classrooms, in-home autism services, and even Broadway—where I had the opportunity to collaborate with the Theatre Development Fund on modifying productions like The Lion King to create autism-friendly performances. As an educator teaching Masters-level courses to aspiring BCBAs and an author writing books that make ABA and data collection truly accessible, I bridge complex behavioral science with practical, real-world application. What energizes me most is collaborating with, training, and learning from fellow BCBAs and future practitioners, understanding that the most powerful changes happen when professionals work together to create meaningful outcomes for individuals with autism.

From a nervous respite care provider to where I am today, I’m grateful that passion, mentorship, and dedication have allowed me to turn an unexpected beginning into meaningful work that I truly love.

"When you run into something interesting, drop everything else and study it." I approach people and situations with curiosity, and aspire to stay present and keep learning.

Clinical Leadership

Nicole Gorden

Nicole Gorden

Growing the Next Generation

I am a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst with nearly two decades of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis. I began my journey in 2008, fueled by a passion for helping children find their voices and families feel empowered. From my early days providing one-on-one therapy to training teams overseas, leading social skills groups, conducting assessments, and running parent support programs, every step has deepened my belief that growth happens when compassion and creativity meet evidence-based practice.

Today, as Director of Training and Development, I have the privilege of shaping the next generation of clinicians while ensuring families receive the highest quality support. Nothing excites me more than seeing children unlock new skills and watching parents gain confidence along the way. Each day, my work inspires me with purpose and joy, and I am grateful to pour that energy into children, families, and the future of our field.

"My passion lies in creating spaces where children thrive, families feel seen, and providers are inspired to lead with heart."

Brian Brutzman

Bringing ABA Into Schools

I started my career working with adults in the group home setting.

Then I transitioned to school-based consulting work and was drawn to the positive impact I was able to make in students’ natural environments.

In graduate school, I did my doctoral dissertation on the adoption of ABA classrooms in public schools.

Now, I am passionate about integrating behavioral science into school systems to benefit students everywhere.

"Too much of the education system orients students toward becoming better thinkers, but there is almost no focus on our capacity to pay attention and cultivate awareness."

Gina Grant

Gina Grant

Making Meaningful Impact

Before joining BK Behavior, I provided behavior analytic services in the homes of clients across southeastern Massachusetts and worked for more than 8 years in both public and private special education settings.

I have also helped advance accessibility to the game of golf through nonprofit community outreach with the NYC Parks Foundation and The First Tee.

In addition, I volunteer my time as a Reading Tutor with Literacy Partners NYC.

"What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make"

Holly Creamer

Holly Creamer

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Expanding Access in the Heartland

I first started my career in child protection and social services in 2001 in Florida, and then transitioned to crisis counseling for adults and children.

In 2012, I moved back to Kansas where I was born and raised to raise our children. In 2015, after the unexpected death of my husband, I had to quickly go into survival mode in raising my 2 young children and navigating the grieving process personally for myself and my children. In 2016, I began working in the schools, providing social/emotional support and behavior interventions for students ages 3-18.

I was devastated to see how quickly I could ascertain counseling for myself and my children for grief, but yet children with Autism were on 2 year wait lists and this was a huge disservice to Kansas children and families. I quickly realized the vast need for services for children and families needing interventions for autism in Kansas and went into private practice in attempts to further dedicate myself to ensuring Kansan families have the much needed access to services when having a child with Autism.

“Every child deserves a champion.”

Suman Mohammad Asra

Suman Mohammad Asra

Clinical Excellence at Scale

I began my career in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with the simple desire to help children find their voices and families feel supported.

Over the years, I’ve worked across diverse communities and supervised teams of BCBAs and RBTs, building systems that focus on quality care and clinical excellence. My journey has taken me from providing direct therapy to now leading over 40 BCBAs and 80 RBTs across multiple states, ensuring that services remain ethical, evidence-based, and client-centered.

Each step has strengthened my passion for mentorship, training, and advancing the field of ABA while keeping the focus on meaningful outcomes for clients and families.

“Knowledge without action is wastefulness and action without knowledge is foolishness.”

Amber Kanchwala

Elevating Ethical & Responsive Care

I am a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst with more than a decade of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis.

I began my career as both a Licensed Professional Counselor and BCBA at an adult day program serving individuals with dual diagnoses of developmental disabilities and mental health conditions. Over the years, I have supported a wide range of populations in diverse settings, including clinics, homes, community programs, and the Illinois state crisis prevention team.

I am currently pursuing my PhD in Behavior Analysis, with a strong commitment to advancing the quality of ABA services. I am deeply passionate about mentoring and training professionals to deliver ethical, effective, and culturally responsive care.

“We rise by lifting others.”

Janet Delgado-Gonzalez

Janet Delgado-Gonzalez

Compassion in Practice

I began my career in the field somewhat unexpectedly. While in college, I worked as a gymnastics coach and had the opportunity to lead a recreational class for a group of autistic teenage boys. That experience sparked a deep interest in working with the autistic community and ultimately led me to pursue a career in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

I went on to work at an ABA school, where I received extensive training and earned my board certification. Since then, I’ve primarily supported families in home-based settings, focusing on individualized, compassionate care.

Today, I serve as the Clinical Director for CBS and ABA360, where I’m proud to lead a team dedicated to providing high-quality, evidence-based support to the individuals and families we serve.

“This too shall pass”

Fernande Deguenon

Fernande Deguenon

Compassion in Practice

In 2006, I met a child with autism while volunteering at church and was instantly drawn to working with this population. I continued volunteering even as I worked in Finance. In 2016, while considering a career change, I took a course on autism taught by a BCBA who introduced me to ABA. That experience confirmed my passion—and, as the saying goes, the rest is history!

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”

Operational Leadership

Chani Maxwell

Behind every service is a family searching for answers. I dedicate my work to making those answers visible, accessible, and welcoming—building trust through awareness, education, and a commitment to never turn anyone away.

Chani Kovitz

Chani Kovitz

Someone once told me, when challenges come up don’t ask why, ask what now. That mindset has shaped my career—I focus on finding solutions, moving forward, and adapting so we can help hundreds of kids get the services they need every single day. When we have kiddos who need support—no matter where they are—we ask, what now? What can we do to help? That’s where innovation, ideas, and networking come in, making sure every child gets the chance to receive the care they deserve.

Jordan Zoltowsky

“I slept and dreamt that life was joy; I awoke and saw that life was service; I acted, and behold, service was joy.”

Sam Hawkins

Sam Hawkins

"Never believe that a few caring people can't change the world. For, indeed, that's all who ever have."

Liz Perrett

Liz Perrett

"Work is love made visible."

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Mercedes Suppes

"She empowered others by truly seeing them — their strength, their potential — and stood beside them, making space for growth with open arms and unwavering belief."

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Toby Greenstein

"If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself."

BK Clinical Team Members

Frida Balla

Frida Balla

Leading with Assessment & Care

I began working in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in the summer of 2016 as a Behavior Therapist, a role I held for three years. After being introduced to the principles of ABA, I quickly developed a passion for the meaningful changes it can bring to individuals’ lives.

This inspired me to pursue my BCBA certification, all while continuing my work as a Behavior Therapist to deepen my practical experience.

After earning my BCBA, I continued with Comprehensive Behavior Support as a BCBA and later advanced to the role of Clinical Director, where I served for a year. I have since transitioned into my current position as Senior Assessment Advisor, while maintaining a client caseload to remain actively involved in clinical work.

“Lead with kindness, and change the world—one child’s life at a time.”

Amber Trotta

Building Confident Practitioners

I began my career as a Special Education Teacher, spending 12 years working with students with significant behavioral and learning needs. During that time, I saw firsthand how much the right behavioral support could change not only a child’s experience at school, but also the experience of their family and the professionals supporting them. That ultimately led me to Applied Behavior Analysis and becoming a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst.

What I love most about being a BCBA is helping people recognize progress that may not always feel big in the moment but can make a meaningful difference in a child’s life. Over the years, my passion has also grown beyond working directly with clients and families to supporting other clinicians. I truly enjoy mentoring BCBAs and RBTs, helping them build confidence in their skills, and finding practical ways to make ABA meaningful in everyday environments.

I’ve been with BK Behavior for nearly five years, and one of my favorite parts of that journey has been having the opportunity to grow alongside the company. I’m grateful that my role allows me to continue supporting clients and families while also helping develop the clinicians who provide their care.

“Progress doesn’t have to be big to be meaningful.”

Hannah Hickey

Disseminating Knowledge, Empowering Communities

My ABA journey started in 2013, and over the years I’ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including early intervention clinics, homes, schools, residential programs, and medical facilities. My experience as a mental health counselor has shaped how I approach my work as a behavior analyst, reminding me of the importance of providing care that is practical, compassionate, and tailored to each individual and their family. I love how ABA helps individuals and families grow into their own version of success one target at a time.

I’m especially passionate about supporting and developing staff, mentoring future BCBAs, building strong and meaningful partnerships with parents, and expanding access to effective services in underserved communities. I am excited about creating systems that help teams provide high-quality, assent-based care while feeling supported and confident in the work they do.

"Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world."

Nora Menzies

Advancing Clinical Excellence

I have built my career around helping people move beyond knowing the material to applying it with confidence, sound judgment, and genuine impact. As a BCBA, educator, and clinical leader, I bring more than 15 years of experience developing professionals and creating learning systems across education, behavior analysis, and clinical services.

My career began in the classroom and has expanded to include building a school district’s behavior-support program, leading teams of RBTs, designing and teaching an RBT certification course, and supporting graduate students in Arizona State University’s Applied Behavior Analysis program. At BK Behavior, I have continued that work by mentoring clinicians, supervising aspiring BCBAs, guiding teams through complex clinical challenges, and contributing to company-wide training and quality-improvement initiatives.

As Clinical Training Manager, I lead initiatives that strengthen clinical practice, develop confident and capable clinicians, and build training systems that can grow alongside the organization. I bring warmth, curiosity, and a practical perspective to leadership, with a focus on turning complex ideas into guidance clinicians can actually use. Above all, I believe training should do more than check a box. It should help people do their best work and ultimately improve the lives of the individuals and families they serve.

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better."

Korrie Warner

Korrie Warner

Integrity in Action

I began my career in ABA as a Behavior Technician with CBS, where I worked for two years before joining BK Behavior as an Intake Coordinator.

Within just a few months, I discovered my passion for applied behavior analysis and decided to pursue a Master’s degree in the field. Along the way, I gained invaluable experience as both an ABA Fellow and a Quality Assurance Specialist, learning from some of the most skilled BCBAs in the state.

Now, as I complete my Master’s program, I’m excited to step into the role of Compliance Manager, taking action every day to support our mission with dedication, integrity, and meaningful impact for the families we serve.

“Action is the foundational key to all success.”

Ashley Long

Gilberto Diaz Ponce

Joy-Anne George

Michelle Gaona

Rebecca Safranek Kelly

Lindsey Zenk

Elevating Quality & Care

I am a New York State Licensed and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with a clinical background in behavioral healthcare, specializing in the assessment and treatment of individuals with autism and selective mutism. Since beginning my career in 2017, I have progressed from providing individualized ABA services to clinical leadership, developing expertise in assessment, behavior intervention, supervision, and family support.

Today, I serve as a Senior Clinical Quality Manager at BK Behavior, where I lead a team of Assessment Specialists and oversee the quality and clinical integrity of Initial Assessments and individualized treatment plans. I am passionate about translating clinical expertise into high-quality, evidence-based care and fostering a culture of clinical excellence and continuous improvement. I am driven by the opportunity to strengthen the quality of care and make a meaningful difference in the lives of the individuals and families we serve.

“The purpose of life is to discover your gift. The work of life is to develop it. The meaning of life is to give your gift away.”

Ana I. Santiago Fonseca

Cassie Spohn

Dorothy Ranew

Estefania Bueno

Genesis R. Marchetti

Jennifer Heidt

Kimberly Piper

Marjorie Pio