Ciara Burke brings a decade of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to her role as the Director of Clinical Services for Florida at Brightstone Therapy. She holds a Master’s degree in Special Education with a Concentration in ABA, equipping her with a strong foundation to support her clients.

As a devoted stepmother to her stepdaughter, Ciara also shares her home with a lively crew of two dogs, two cats, and two lizards—making it feel like Noah’s Ark! In her free time, she enjoys nurturing her love for plants, visiting the beach, hiking nature trails, and going for bike rides. She also treasures lazy days spent at home.

Ciara’s favorite part of her work is focusing on functional communication with early intervention clients. She finds it incredibly rewarding to witness their progress as they establish communication skills, often utilizing PECS and AAC devices to enhance their interactions.

What she loves most about Brightstone Therapy is the unwavering support she receives from her team. The collaborative environment prioritizes the well-being of both clients and staff, and the leadership's commitment to shared values resonates deeply with her, making it a fulfilling place to grow and contribute.

Victoria Martensen is a Clinical Supervisor at Brightstone Therapy, bringing four years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to her role. She holds a Master’s degree in Special Education from the University of Arizona.

As a wife & mother of three energetic boys—Miller, Emmitt, & Caleb —Victoria balances her professional life with family activities. She enjoys baking and going on walks with her kids, creating cherished moments together.

Victoria's favorite aspect of ABA is helping children build confidence, particularly through daily living skills. She finds great joy in empowering her clients to become more self-assured.

What she loves most about working for Brightstone Therapy is the strong sense of teamwork and support among her fellow BCBAs, which enhances both her professional growth and the success of their clients.

Jessie Benton is a Clinical Supervisor at Brightstone Therapy, bringing a decade of experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with an emphasis in ABA from Purdue University Global and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Special Education with a focus on ABA at the University of West Florida with the goal of becoming a BCBA!

As a wonderful wife & mother of two grown children, Riley and Raegan, Jessie enjoys a fulfilling family life. She shares her home with a beloved dog named Bo, who adds joy to her everyday routine. In her free time, she loves reading, cooking, and spending time at the beach.

One of Jessie’s favorite aspects of working in ABA is the opportunity to support clients and their families. She finds it incredibly rewarding to help clients develop functional communication skills, enabling them to independently express their wants and needs.

What Jessie loves most about working at Brightstone Therapy is the organization’s client-focused approach. She appreciates that each client receives individualized support tailored to their unique needs and values the amazing staff members who consistently prioritize the well-being of their clients.

With over 11 years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), I currently serve as a Clinical Supervisor at Brightstone’s Blue Jay Academy locations in Daytona Beach and DeLand, Florida. My journey in ABA began in 2014 with supervision experience, followed by earning my BCaBA in 2015 and becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2017. I hold a Master’s degree in Special Education from the University of North Florida.

My greatest joy in this field is teaching others the science and power of ABA. I believe that when you share this knowledge with those who can apply it effectively, the impact multiplies—leading to real, meaningful change in the lives of clients and families.

What I love most about working at Brightstone is the supportive systems and tools that ensure treatment remains responsive and data-driven. These structures help us track progress and deliver measurable, life-changing outcomes for the individuals we serve.

Outside of work, I’m a proud mom of two amazing children who are the highlight of my every day. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new places with my family, creating memories together—and, of course, drinking lots of coffee!

With over three years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), I am passionate about supporting families as they begin their journey in ABA. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in Vocal Performance from Augusta State University, and while I don’t have children of my own, I proudly "claim" all of my friends' kids as family.

As the Intake Coordinator at Brightstone, I find it incredibly rewarding to be the first point of contact for families. I love being able to share real stories of transformation and growth, helping to reassure and encourage parents who may feel overwhelmed as they navigate the process. I’m committed to walking alongside them every step of the way.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading, crafting, and cheering on UGA Football and the Atlanta Braves. I’m also a proud dog mom to a 10-year-old Chihuahua named Hershel. I feel truly lucky to be part of such an amazing team at Brightstone—they keep me laughing and always on my toes!

With three years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), I currently serve as the Clinic Coordinator at Brightstone’s St. Augustine location. I’m also pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology to deepen my understanding of behavior and further support the families we serve.

One of my favorite parts of working in ABA is witnessing our clients learn and grow—especially the small skills that gradually build into meaningful progress. It’s incredible to see the impact those skills can have in the clinic, at home, and throughout the community.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading, scrapbooking, and spending relaxing days out on the water. I’m also a proud dog mom to two lovable Black Labs. What I love most about Brightstone is our team’s dedication to collaboration. Everyone works together with a shared goal: helping our clients gain independence and thrive—and that’s a truly motivating environment to be part of.

With three years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), I currently serve as the Clinic Coordinator at Brightstone’s Lake Gray location. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from the University of West Florida and am passionate about helping children and families grow through meaningful, life-changing support.

One of the most rewarding parts of my work is witnessing those incredible "click" moments—when a child says “I love you” for the first time, or learns to communicate in a new way. Moments like these aren’t just milestones for the child—they’re transformational for the whole family.

I’m proud of the professional growth and skills I’ve gained throughout my time in ABA, and I’m especially grateful to be part of a team that always puts client progress and well-being first.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading, spending time at the beach, and hanging out with my corgi, Floyd, and my cat, Finn.

Kristen Evans is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with extensive experience in Applied Behavior Analysis. She began her ABA journey in a graduate program and worked in school settings from 2005 to 2007, becoming a BCBA in 2009. Kristen earned her Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis from Teachers College, Columbia University.

Kristen is passionate about developing individualized tools and strategies that support each client’s unique needs. She enjoys the continuous learning and growth that come with helping clients make meaningful progress, recognizing that in ABA, there’s always room to improve and adapt.

Outside of work, Kristen enjoys spending time with her two children, exploring new places on weekend adventures, visiting Universal Orlando and Disney World, and participating in 5K runs. She also shares her home with two cats.

Kristen loves being part of the Brightstone community, where collaboration and shared expertise among peers lead to the best possible outcomes for clients and their families.

Tavy Matthews is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with over 11 years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). She earned her Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis from Florida Institute of Technology and has dedicated her career to helping clients and their families achieve meaningful, lasting progress.

“My favorite part of working in ABA is watching parents realize that their child can achieve more in life than they expected, while also enhancing the quality of life not only for the client but for the entire family unit,” Tavy shares.

Outside of work, Tavy enjoys trying out new restaurants and exploring new culinary experiences. She values being part of Brightstone because, “I love being part of a team where collaboration thrives and every voice matters. At Brightstone, I feel truly valued and supported, which makes each day both meaningful and rewarding.”

Jessica Nolan has dedicated 11 years to the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and currently serves as the Director of Clinical Services for Georgia at Brightstone Therapy. She holds a Master of Psychology with an emphasis in ABA from Kaplan University.

As a proud wife & mother to her son, Everett, and a dog owner to an English Bulldog named Melon, Jessica cherishes spending quality time with her family. Her hobbies include cooking and enjoying family activities that strengthen their bond.

A passionate BCBA, Jessica loves collaborating with the families of her clients. She finds it incredibly rewarding to work alongside parents to ensure their children's success, recognizing the vital role they play in the therapeutic process.

What she appreciates most about working at Brightstone Therapy is the strong emphasis on teamwork. Jessica values the supportive environment where everyone is eager to lend a helping hand, making it a fulfilling place to grow and make a difference.

With five years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), I serve as a Clinical Supervisor in Georgia, bringing a strong passion for client success and team development. I hold a Master’s degree in Psychology with a specialization in ABA from Capella University.

One of the most rewarding parts of my role is watching Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) grow—not just in their technical skills, but in their confidence. It’s incredible to see them step into their roles and truly shine. I also love celebrating our clients’ wins, both big and small. Seeing improvements in functional communication and emotional regulation is especially exciting, as these skills can be truly life-changing for our learners.

I work across several daycare facilities, where every milestone—no matter how small—feels meaningful. This job is one of those rare opportunities that is both challenging and deeply fulfilling.

Outside of work, I enjoy coloring, playing basketball, and spending time with my cat.

Megan Plazak is a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) with five years of experience supporting children and families through compassionate, evidence-based ABA services. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a focus in Applied Behavior Analysis from Capella University and is currently completing her master’s in ABA—set to graduate in December 2025 and sit for her BCBA exam!

Megan is passionate about parent collaboration and the generalization of skills across home, school, and community environments. She believes there’s nothing more meaningful than watching a child master a new skill and then seeing parents confidently use the same strategies to support growth in everyday life. Helping families feel empowered is one of the most rewarding aspects of her work.

Outside of the clinic, Megan enjoys a very full (and furry!) home life. She has five rescue pets—three sibling cats, Bernard, Clemintine, and Teddy, who all tip the scales at over 20 pounds, and two dogs, Hazel and Mango, who join her on frequent nature walks. Megan also loves playing adult league sports such as kickball, softball, and volleyball, staying active at the gym, and traveling whenever she can.

Megan is proud to be part of a team that prioritizes a supportive environment, strong leadership, and ongoing education for staff. She brings enthusiasm, empathy, and dedication to every family she partners with.

Eryn Walsh is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with seven years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis. She earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Georgia Southern University and her Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University.

Eryn is passionate about supporting children in developing communication and adaptive skills. She finds joy in helping kids express their wants and needs, interact with others, and master practical life skills—sometimes in ways that aren’t immediately obvious, such as cutting hair or nails, or learning to plan and prioritize tasks.

Outside of work, Eryn enjoys spending time with her two-year-old daughter and her two Labradors, Moose and Maisie. She also loves reading and staying active through her fitness routines.

Eryn values the collaborative and supportive environment at Brightstone, where she can share ideas, ask questions, and receive meaningful feedback to help both her and the families she works with thrive.