A Service Provider of Hi-5 ABA
Newport News Office
Helping children with autism reach their full potential
Calixto, Jessica, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
In 2011, Jessica received her B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Women and Gender Studies from SUNY Brockport. She worked as a teacher assistant/socio-therapist working with children from 13-21 years of age with developmental disabilities and mental health issues. She transitioned to a special education self-contained classroom working with children diagnosed with Autism. In September of 2013, she moved from New York to Virginia to continue her education and begin her career in Applied Behavior Analysis, working direct care with children diagnosed with Autism ages 2-21 years of age in English and Spanish speaking households. She completed her master’s program at George Mason University, receiving a M.Ed. in Special Education with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis. Jessica received her BCBA and became a licensed behavior analyst in 2017.
Jessica is currently a PhD student in Applied Behavior Analysis at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Her position as a research assistant there, has granted her opportunities to travel to present at ABA conferences around the country and further the research on behavior reduction and trauma using ABA strategies. She has a passion for helping families and is excited to open those she serves to the power of ABA.
Service Process Overview
A step-by-step guide to engaging and completing services effectively, ensuring client satisfaction throughout.
About Us
Applied Behavior Analysis is a research-based, data-driven approach toward helping people and organizations improve human behavior. ABA is especially applicable to children with autism, assisting them to better communicate, acquire social skills, and develop appropriate behavior. Services begin with an initial assessment and orientation to services performed by a Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA). The client must be present for both meetings. After the initial assessment, the analyst will design a treatment plan and apply for authorization from an applicable insurer.
During Orientation, the analyst and parent(s) will plan a weekly treatment schedule. Direct therapy generally runs 10-30 hours/week, depending upon the client’s needs, and is performed substantially by one or more behavior technicians under the analyst’s direction. The analyst provides specific instruction to the behavior techs, performs remote and/or on-site supervision as appropriate, and modifies the treatment plan as progress occurs. Reassessment and reauthorizations typically occur every six months if continued services remain necessary.
What We Serve
Children under the age of 21 with developmental disabilities and autism require specialized support and understanding. These young individuals may face unique challenges in communication, social interactions, and learning. It is essential to provide tailored resources and interventions to help them thrive and reach their full potential in various environments.
- Medicaid
- Private Pay
- Health Insurance
GET STARTED TODAY
Individual ABA goals are developed and targeted throughout the day to include independent skills, social opportunities, appropriate play skills, and management of challenging behaviors. To request information about the availability of ABA services please click the link below.