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Comprehensive Care for Autistic Children Ages 1.5 → 10 Years Old
Daniel Wechsler is a clinical psychologist at Scottsdale Pediatric Behavioral Services. He earned his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2018 from the Arizona School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University, Phoenix. Dr. Wechsler also completed his Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology and his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Argosy University.
Dr. Wechsler completed his postdoctoral training at Beljan Psychological Services in Phoenix, Arizona, and his predoctoral internship at the American Psychological Association (APA) accredited Jewish Family and Children’s Services within the Centerstone Consortium in Sarasota, Florida. Most recently, he conducted autism assessments and research assessments at the Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center (SARRC) for two years before joining the SPBS team.
Dr. Wechsler’s clinical experience includes pediatric neuropsychological assessment, autism assessment, pediatric and adult psychotherapy, group psychotherapy, play therapy, and social skills development. His professional interests encompass assessment and consultation in early childhood development, autism, neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., learning disorders, ADHD, and executive functioning impairments), gifted intellect, as well as other emotional, mood, and behavioral disorders.
Jacob Boney, PsyD, BCBA-D, is an experienced behavior analyst practicing at Scottsdale Pediatric Behavioral Services, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Dr. Boney founded Scottsdale Pediatric Behavioral Services to help parents raise happy, healthy children through the application of behavioral science.
Dr. Boney graduated from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia, with his Bachelor of Science in psychology. He went on to earn his master’s and doctorate degrees in clinical psychology at the Arizona School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Boney completed his postdoctoral board-certification through the Florida Institute of Technology and applied training at the BISTÅ Center in Mesa, Arizona.
While Dr. Boney has extensive experience across a broad range of psychological and behavioral health, he specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric behavioral and developmental disorders. He applies behavior-analytic principles and technology to functional behavior assessments. Dr. Boney uses the data collected and analyzed during evaluations to create customized behavior interventions to help his young patients thrive.
Additionally, Dr. Boney collaborates with parents, educators, schools, and direct-care staff to ensure patients receive consistent, concerted support in every environment.
Dr. Weston is originally from Long Island, NY. She moved to Arizona in 1994 and now lives in Chandler, AZ. Dr. Weston joined SPBS/SCI to expand her assessment experience and to incorporate neuropsychological and autism evaluations. During graduate school, Dr. Weston worked as a behavioral health technician with children diagnosed with autism for approximately 6 months. She has been conducting psychological assessments since 2015 and autism assessments since 2022. Dr. Weston obtained her doctoral degree from the Arizona School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University, Phoenix.
Dr. Weston has always loved the field of psychology since she was a child. While completing her undergraduate degree in psychology, she felt that the next logical step was to pursue a doctoral degree. It was a long journey, and she has no regrets! She enjoys the variety of clients and assessments that she helps serve. During her free time, Dr. Weston is busy with her two children who play sports, so all her free time revolves around youth sports. She likes to live by the aphorism, "It is always best to know the truth, even if we don’t like it."
Katie Keenan holds both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Toledo in Ohio, as well as a certificate in interprofessional teaming. Katie developed a passion for childhood development when a family friend was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Although aspects of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) are often discussed in the education of a speech therapist, Katie discovered ABA through her work at a clinic during her graduate studies. This experience allowed her to understand the importance of open-mindedness and collaboration while also giving her the chance to share her expertise as an SLP.
Using a child-led approach when working with children, Katie specializes in following their interests and embedding therapeutic techniques into their play. Additionally, she has experience with implementing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) modalities and using a Gestalt Language Processing approach to assess and address a child’s communication needs, promoting communication across various environments.
The most rewarding part of Katie’s day is playing and engaging with her clients while seeing them grow toward independence. She is a kid at heart.
In her free time, Katie enjoys spending time with her husband, Michael, and her son, Ezekiel, drinking handcrafted espressos, and experimenting with herbs and spices in her kitchen.
Shantel and her husband previously lived in Connecticut before moving to Arizona two and a half years ago. They currently reside in Apache Junction at the base of the Superstition Mountains!
At SPBS, Shantel serves as a BCBA, LBA at our Scottsdale Children’s Institute. Her daily responsibilities include implementing and updating treatment interventions, creating a fun and supportive environment, and building rapport with children and their families. Her favorite aspect of working here is forming long-lasting relationships with the kids and their families.
What sets SPBS/SCI apart from other providers is our creative and unique approach, which allows BCBAs to work in a collaborative environment, provide continuous support to our RBTs and children, and regularly engage with families.
Outside of work, Shantel enjoys playing with her young son, hiking with her family, eating ice cream, and reading suspenseful novels.
Using a child-led approach when working with children, Katie specializes in following their interests and embedding therapeutic techniques into their play. Additionally, she has experience with implementing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) modalities and using a Gestalt Language Processing approach to assess and address a child’s communication needs, promoting communication across various environments.
The most rewarding part of Katie’s day is playing and engaging with her clients while seeing them grow toward independence. She is a kid at heart.
In her free time, Katie enjoys spending time with her husband, Michael, and her son, Ezekiel, drinking handcrafted espressos, and experimenting with herbs and spices in her kitchen.
Jasmin was born in Windsor, Ontario, where she lived for only 2 years before moving to Rochester Hills, Michigan. She relocated to Arizona from Michigan in 2014 and currently lives in North Scottsdale with her 9-year-old daughter, Rayan; 8-year-old son, Shamsy; and cat, Nala.
Jasmin is a Board-Certified Licensed Behavior Analyst at Scottsdale Children’s Institute. As a clinical supervisor at SCI, her daily duties include creating individualized treatment plans for her clients, overseeing the implementation of these plans by behavior technicians, providing caregiver training, and teaching new skills and behaviors to children. Jasmin’s favorite part of working at SCI is witnessing her clients make daily progress, providing support and guidance to families, and collaborating with other BCBAs.
What sets Scottsdale Pediatric Behavioral Services apart is its commitment to prioritizing the children and their needs by providing clients, families, and behavior technicians with ongoing support, guidance, and dedication. SPBS/SCI encourages and promotes collaboration, innovation, and excellence among all its employees.
Outside of work, Jasmin enjoys exploring Arizona and the surrounding states with her kids, hiking, cooking, and discovering new coffee shops. She is also involved as a parent leader with Raising Special Kids, offering support to families of children with disabilities or other special needs.
Alex has six years of ABA experience and has worked with children ranging from two to seventeen. He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Oklahoma and a master’s degree in Special Education with an emphasis in Applied Behavioral Analysis from ASU. Alex is currently finishing his doctoral program. His area of clinical expertise includes managing and recovering from challenging behaviors while focusing on the holistic nature of therapy, emphasizing care and connection with the individuals he works with as key factors for successful outcomes.
As the Director of Safety Alex also holds certifications in OSHA, Professional Crisis Management, and Skills Based Treatment. He emphasizes that no matter what happens in treatment we are creating memories and those experiences should be wholesome and safe with our learners hearts and futures in mind.
Alex was drawn to SPBS because of its multifaceted team and the growth opportunities we provide to staff beyond the master’s level of education. With several family members on the autism spectrum, Alex has a personal connection to ASD and values the strong focus placed on our clients and their needs.
Kaitlin Woodard was born and raised in a small town in upstate New York. After choosing to double up her junior year of high school, Kaitlin graduated at 16 years old and moved on to pursue her bachelor’s degree in business administration at Kaplan University. While still in New York, Kaitlin started working at a local hospital in the billing department, where she discovered her joy for the research in the insurance billing field and the constant challenge that it provided. This interest helped inspire her to transfer to a private practice where she learned how to code.
Upon moving to Arizona, Kaitlin came across SPBS and became interested in the position and company. Having no prior experience with ABA she was interested in learning a new skill, and she was impressed by the services we provide. After Starting with us, Kaitlin gave herself a goal of becoming certified and now holds certifications as a Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialists, Certified Professional Biller, and Certified Professional Coder. Kaitlin prides herself on the ability to effectively navigate the health insurance world while paying attention to small details and staying up to date on policy changes. Kaitlin can quickly aid our families in understanding their insurance benefits and ensure that our clients are covered. One of the things Kaitlin loves about SPBS is that from the front to the backend we strive to ensure that our families have the best services, success, and experience that we can provide. When not working, Kaitlin enjoys hiking and exploring new places with her husband and two children.
Jessica is from Spokane, Washington and has spent equal amounts of her life there, and in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, as they are right next to each other! She currently lives in Anthem, AZ.
Jessica is our dedicated Human Resources Manager here at SPBS and specializes in fostering positive workplace cultures, implementing talent acquisition strategies, conducts employee training, and ensures compliance with employment laws. With a strong background in employee relations and performance management, she strives to create environments where both employees and organizations thrive.
Her favorite part about working at SPBS is the opportunity to connect with people, help them flourish in their roles, and create a positive work environment through policies and support. She also enjoys having the opportunity to contribute to SPBS's success by fostering a strong and motivated workforce.
Jessica believes that we stand out as an organization because of our specialized focus on pediatric behavioral health as a multidisciplinary organization. SPBS offers tailored, child-centered approaches to therapy, assessments, and interventions, often emphasizing personalized care for children’s differing needs. This specialization includes specific techniques, experienced professionals in child psychology, and a holistic approach considering both emotional and developmental aspects.
Beyond Jessicas professional realm, her passions thrive in coaching sports, namely soccer and flag football, baking, and crafting. As a dedicated coach, she finds fulfillment in guiding individuals towards their goals, whether it’s in sports, life, or career. In the kitchen, she challenges her creativity through diverse baking; experimenting with deserts, bread, and pastries. Crafting brings out her hands-on side, indulging in DIY projects, honing skills in various crafts and party planning, and finding joy in the tangible results of her creativity.
Comprehensive Care for Autistic Children Ages 1.5 → 6 Years Old