Our Team

Stepping Stones Behavior Support Clinical Director leading ABA therapy programs, ensuring high-quality care and support for families in Hampton Roads.

Owner/ Director- Virginia

Rhiannon Thayer, M.A. BCBA, LBA

Rhiannon completed her undergraduate studies at Norfolk State University in 2015 with a degree in Psychology, and her Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis with an emphasis in autism through Ball State University in 2017. As a Navy veteran and a current military spouse of over fifteen years, Rhiannon has first hand knowledge of the special dynamic that makes up a military family. Throughout her career, Rhiannon has worked with clients primarily ranging in age from 2-13 with a concentration in early intervention through kindergarten. Since becoming an ABA service provider in Hampton Roads in 2016, she has remained committed to the exceptional clients and families she supports and to growing the field of behavior analysis. 

Clinical Director at Stepping Stones Behavior Support overseeing in-home ABA therapy services, committed to enhancing child development for families in the West Valley of Phoenix, including Goodyear and Buckeye, AZ

Owner/ Director- Arizona

Melissa Hale, M.S. BCBA, LBA

Melissa earned her B.S. in Child and Adolescent Development in 2009 from California State University, Fullerton and became a BCaBA in 2015. In 2017, she became a BCBA after graduating with a M.A. in Professional Behavioral Analysis from Florida Institute of Technology in 2016. Melissa’s desire to work with children with special needs led her to the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. Throughout her career she has worked with clients ranging from the ages of 2-16 with a concentration in early intervention. She has experience with both in-home and clinical settings as a lead therapist, supervisor, and parent trainer. Melissa is excited to share her knowledge and passion for ABA with her clients and their families. 

Meet the Arizona Team

  • Kelsey Figueroa

    BCBA, LBA

    I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) at Stepping Stones Behavior Support, where I provide dedicated support to children with Autism and other developmental challenges. I earned my undergraduate degree from the University of Washington in June 2017, shortly after which I was introduced to the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) through a workshop.

    I began my career as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), working with children diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, ODD, ADD, and various comorbidities. My experience spans center-based early intervention (ages 2-6), in-home support for children ages 6-12, and school settings for children aged 5-15.

    After four years as an RBT, I earned my Master’s in Education with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis from Arizona State University in September 2021. As a BCBA, I primarily focus on providing in-home support, which allows me to guide parents and make a direct impact on the lives of children and families.

    I find great joy in helping families navigate the complexities of ABA and Autism, working directly on skills and behaviors that foster positive change in their lives.

  • Jennifer Gentile (Jennie)

    BCBA, LBA

    Jennifer Gentile (Jennie) is a dedicated and compassionate Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who identifies as a Christian woman, wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend and places family at the forefront of her life and work. Jennie believes in the importance of building rapport with clients and their families, utilizing humor to create a friendly and trusting environment. 

    She holds licensure in Arizona, Texas, and Michigan, with plans to expand to Alaska. Her approach emphasizes meeting clients where they are, ensuring that each child’s unique learning style is recognized and nurtured. Jennie finds immense satisfaction in witnessing the growth of children as they learn and develop new skills.

    In addition to her professional commitments, she enjoys traveling, kayaking, and scuba diving—activities that reflect her belief in doing hard work upfront to reap the rewards. Jennie thrives on empowering caregivers by introducing them to new behavioral skills training tools, fostering collaboration and enthusiasm in their journey toward understanding and supporting their children’s needs.  

  • Jessica Price

    RBT

    I love to create a positive rapport with my clients and their families; it makes my day when I show up for a session, greeted by hugs and happy squeals because learning CAN be fun!  I have 7+ years of in-home ABA experience (ranging from 2-12 years old); beginning as a play therapist, a habilitation provider, and now currently as a Registered Behavior Technician.  I have an Associates Degree in Health Science, which included coursework in child development, and am currently working on completing my bachelor’s degree.