AKA Therapy Staff - Albert Knapp & Associates

Leadership

Albert Knapp

Psy.D., BCBA-D, RPT-S

Clinical Psychologist (PSY 25873)
Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (01-08-4806)
Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (S2412)

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Leadership

Brianna Young

M.A., LMFT 125597

Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
Clinical Supervisor, Mental Health

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Leadership

Julie Brown

Bachelor of Science, Business

Practice Manager, Intake Coordinator, Billing Coordinator

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Admin

April Ampuero

Bachelors of Science, Psychology

Scheduling and Insurance Coordinator.

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ABA Team

Caesar Ribeiro

M.S., BCBA

Board Certified Behavior Analyst 1-21-47620

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ABA Team

Natalie Garcia

M.A.

Registered Behavior Technician (RBT-23-256439)
Supervised by Caesar Riberio, M.A. Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-21-47620)

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ABA Team

Jonathan Metcalfe

M.PH.

Registered Behavior Technician, (RBT-25-430850)
Supervised by Caesar Riberio, M.A. Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-21-47620)

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ABA Team

Sheryl Adams

M.S., BCBA

Registered Behavior Technician (RBT-25-434514)
Supervised by Caesar Riberio, M.S., Board Certified Behavior Analyst, BCBA (1-21-47620)

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ABA Team

Connie Xu

Registered Behavior Technician (RBT-25-455861)
Supervised by Caesar Riberio, M.S., Board Certified Behavior Analyst, BCBA (1-21-47620)

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ABA Team

Laura Younes

Registered Behavior Technician (RBT 25-482449)
Supervised by Caesar Riberio, M.S., Board Certified Behavior Analyst, BCBA (1-21-47620)

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ABA Team

Hulya Alkus

Behavior Technician,
Supervised by Caesar Riberio, M.S., Board Certified Behavior Analyst, BCBA (1-21-47620)

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ABA Team

Brendan Balbier

Behavior Technician,
Supervised by Caesar Riberio, M.S., Board Certified Behavior Analyst, BCBA (1-21-47620)

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MH Team

Miguel Gibbs

M.S., Ph.D.

Registered Psychological Associate (PSB 94027932)
Supervised by Albert Knapp, Psy.D., BCBA-D, RPT-S, Clinical Psychologist (PSY 25873).

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MH Team

Jane Dauksza Long

M.S., ACSW

Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW115273)
Supervised by Brianna Young,
M.A., LMFT 125597

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MH Team

Andrew Graham

M.S., Psy.D.

Registered Psychological Associate, (PSB 94028431)
Supervised by Albert Knapp, Psy.D., BCBA-D, RPT-S, Clinical Psychologist (PSY 25873)

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MH Team

Ellen “Forrest” Rebecca Suh

MA, APCC AMFT M.A.

Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC19369) and Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT155089)
Supervised by Brianna Young, M.A., LMFT 125597

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MH Team

Hallie Rolph

M.A.,ACSW 132249

Associate Clinical Social Worker, (ACSW-132249)
Supervised by Brianna Young,
M.A., LMFT 125597

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MH Team

Christina Asatryan

Doctoral Practicum Student

Supervised by Dr. Albert Knapp, Psy.D. BCBA-D, RPT-S
Clinical Psychologist, (PSY 25873)
Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (01-08-4806)
Registered Play Therapy Supervisor (S2412)

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MH Team

Lily Lira

Doctoral Practicum Student

Supervised by Dr. Albert Knapp, Psy.D. BCBA-D, RPT-S
Clinical Psychologist, (PSY 25873)
Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (01-08-4806)
Registered Play Therapy Supervisor (S2412)

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MH Team

Jay Okereke

Doctoral Practicum Student

Supervised by Dr. Albert Knapp, Psy.D. BCBA-D, RPT-S
Clinical Psychologist, (PSY 25873)
Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (01-08-4806)
Registered Play Therapy Supervisor (S2412)

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MH Team

Tiffany Frechette

Doctoral Practicum Student

Supervised by Dr. Albert Knapp, Psy.D. BCBA-D, RPT-S
Clinical Psychologist, (PSY 25873)
Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (01-08-4806)
Registered Play Therapy Supervisor (S2412)

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MH Team

Naomi Pierce

Doctoral Practicum Student

Supervised by Dr. Albert Knapp, Psy.D. BCBA-D, RPT-S
Clinical Psychologist, (PSY 25873)
Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (01-08-4806)
Registered Play Therapy Supervisor (S2412)

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MH Team

Jazmine Hernandez-Castillo

Doctoral Practicum Student

Supervised by Dr. Albert Knapp, Psy.D. BCBA-D, RPT-S
Clinical Psychologist, (PSY 25873)
Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (01-08-4806)
Registered Play Therapy Supervisor (S2412)

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MH Team

Keona Brown

Psychological Associate

(PSB 94029298)
Supervised by Albert Knapp, Psy.D., BCBA-D, RPT-S, Clinical Psychologist (PSY 25873)

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MH Team

Alexandra Faubert

Doctoral Practicum Student

Supervised by Dr. Albert Knapp, Psy.D. BCBA-D, RPT-S
Clinical Psychologist, (PSY 25873)
Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (01-08-4806)
Registered Play Therapy Supervisor (S2412)

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MH Team

Andrea Bullinger

Doctoral Practicum Student

Supervised by Dr. Albert Knapp, Psy.D. BCBA-D, RPT-S
Clinical Psychologist, (PSY 25873)
Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (01-08-4806)
Registered Play Therapy Supervisor (S2412)

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MH Team

Alexes Degenfelder

M.A. AMFT (AMFT 159303)

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Supervised by Brianna Young, M.A., LMFT 1255597

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MH Team

Amanda Arreola

MSN, APRN, PHN, PMHNP-BC, Med-Surg BCRN

Nurse Practitioner Furnishing (95034072)

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MH Team

Stephen Smith

Associate Clinical Social Worker

(ASCW-134885)

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Britney

Official Greeter

Albert Knapp

Dr. Albert Knapp received his Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University, Orange County and his MA in Psychology from Pepperdine University. Dr. Knapp is a Clinical Psychologist (PSY 25873) in California, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (1-08-4806), and a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (S2412). Dr. Knapp completed his doctoral research on studying the effect of autism spectrum disorders on parental stress, anxiety, and coping, which was recognized by Argosy University as an “Outstanding Clinical Research Project”. He presented his research findings at the 2013 American Psychological Association Annual Conference & the 2014 Association for Behavior Analysis International Conference. Dr. Knapp also wrote a book Parenting a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder Practical Strategies to Strengthen Understanding, Communication and Connection (Publication September 2020).

Dr. Knapp has taught various graduate-level Applied Behavior Analysis classes at National University, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, and Pepperdine University. Dr. Knapp completed a pre-doctoral internship at Tarzana Treatment Centers working with dually-diagnosed (mental health and substance abuse/dependence) adolescents. He received his post-doctoral training at the Institute for Multicultural Counseling and Education Services, where he provided assessment and therapy services to children who have experienced trauma. He has also received specific training in diagnostic assessment at Argosy University Therapeutic Assessment and Psychological Services. Dr. Knapp has served as a subject matter expert with the CA Board of Psychology.

Dr. Knapp has extensive professional experience working with infants through older adults with developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, behavioral problems, and dual-diagnoses (learning disabilities and severe mental illness) in various capacities, including direct service, supervision, consultation, school/paraprofessional training, parent training, assessment, and psychotherapy. Dr. Knapp is also trained and certified in several evidence-based practices: Seeking Safety, Managing and Adapting Practices (MAP), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) and the Program for the Enrichment and Education of Relational Skills (PEERS).

In addition to being the Executive Director of Albert Knapp & Associates a unique group practice that also functions as a high quality training site for pre-licensed/credentialed mental health and ABA professions; Dr. Knapp has enjoys giving back to the community through charity and non-profit work. Dr. Knapp was served Our Village, a Social Learning Community for 6 years in various capacities such as Founding Board Member/Treasurer, and Clinical Director. Dr. Knapp also works as a Clinical Supervisor for Insight Psychotherapy Group, a group practice specializing in providing low-cost treatment in a private practice or school-based setting. Dr. Knapp is also an ongoing participant in the Beach Cities Mental Health Task Force.

Dr. Knapp is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Psychological Association, Los Angeles County Psychological Association, Association for Behavior Analysts International, Association of Professional Behavior Analysts, the California Association for Behavior Analysis, and the Association for Play Therapy.

Brianna Young

Brianna Young, MA, LMFT, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Supervisor
here at Albert Knapp and Associate. Brianna obtained her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology, with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. Brianna loves working with all age groups and has experience working with children, teens, and adults. She finds her work very meaningful while helping clients process unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and parenting concerns. Brianna emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships and is passionate about creating a safe space for her clients to heal, as well as develop a healthy identity and a sense of personal empowerment. Brianna is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Active Parenting, Triple P Parenting, Seeking Safety, and EEG Neurofeedback Training therapies. Brianna provides a non-judgmental, warm, supportive, and empathetic approach, which is individualized to each client to assist them in their progress toward more fulfilling lives and healthy relationships..

Julie Brown

Julie joined the team in 2020 as the Practice Manager. Her background as a small business owner prepared her to lead the Administration Department and to assist the organization in growing three distinct departments within the organization. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, walking, watching movies and sports.

April Ampuero

April Ampuero has her BA in Psychology and Spanish from Chapman University. She has been in the field of ABA administration and scheduling support for the past 9 years. She enjoys being able to connect with families and ensure that they receive quality support and clinical services. Her free time is spent doting on her young daughter and having new experiences with her.

Caesar Ribeiro

Caesar Augustus Pinto Ribeiro, is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA 1-21-47620). Caesar is from Brazil and is trilingual (English, Portuguese, and Spanish) and a father of 2. He completed his education n California and obtained both his bachelor’s degree (Psychology) and Master’s of Science (Applied Behavior Analysis) from California State University of Northridge. He then obtained his board certification in ABA in 2021. He has been in the field of ABA since 2013, first as a behavioral therapist, then as a program coordinator, behavioral consultant, associate clinician, clinician, and eventually a supervisor. Caesar Ribeiro comes to us with experience working with clients ranging from as early as 1 year 2 months to the age of 67 years across all severity levels. He also worked with both individuals on the autism spectrum as well clients with other developmental or intellectual disabilities. Caesar has worked in multiple environments providing ABA support including in the clinical setting, in-home setting, in school setting, and group home settings. Caesar is both observant and inquisitive and his passion in ABA comes from the need to understand behavior. His professional goal is to help individuals obtain the best quality of life improvements through ABA and to advocate for ABA to individuals whose age groups are severely impacted in its application such as adults and the elderly population.

Natalie Garcia

Natalie Garcia is a Registered Behavioral Technician with over 8 years of experience. She specializes in implementing goals and advancing socially appropriate behaviors directly impacting an individual’s growth. Natalie graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in Rehabilitation Services. While studying, she was employed as a Behavioral Therapist. This provided her an opportunity to explore the ABA field, creating a passion to advance her knowledge. Natalie continued her education thereby enhancing her ABA career. She received a master’s degree in applied Behavior Analysis. Natalie is currently working towards the next career goal of becoming a BCBA to provide additional services, continuing to be an asset to her team and her community.

Jonathan Metcalfe

Jonathan grew up in Southern California before spending time Cleveland, Ohio and Zimbabwe. Happy to be back in SoCal, Jonathan now calls Long Beach home. Prior to entering the field of healthcare to deliver ABA Services, Jonathan trained in Medical Anthropology and Public Health, studying the ways people navigate their health when affected by infectious disease. He has degrees from Long Beach State and Case Western Reserve University. He is passionate about holistic health and is excited to help people in their journeys. His other interests include developing his local community, traveling, and long-distance running.

Sheryl Adams

Sheryl Adams has had a varied and successful career outside of health care. She became interested in ABA and how important this therapy is for people on the Spectrum in 2022, when she learned that a member of her family was diagnosed with ASD. Since joining our team, she has completed the training to be a Registered Behavior Technician and is dedicating herself to delivering ABA services to the community we serve. In her own words, “I will always strive to improve my ability to help others”.

Connie Xu

Connie is a registered behavioral technician. She brings a unique background to the role, having previously worked in film and business analytics where she developed strong creative and analytical skills that translate beautifully to supporting clients with their behavioral journey. She holds degrees from the University of California, Davis and Chapman University. When she’s not working, you'll find her practicing Vinyasa yoga, reading and writing coming-of-age stories, or working on her latest crochet project.

Laura Younes

Laura Younes is a Registerer Behavior Technician (RBT 25-482449) with over a decade experienced with childcare under her belt, five of those years being within ABA fields. Her role as an RBT has inspired her to advance her education into Childhood Development. Her goal is to finish her master’s and be a BCBA. Her dream is to open a school overseas to help children on the spectrum. A South Bay local, and West High Alumni, Laura enjoys what most Angeleno's enjoy. Good food, good sun, and a breezy beach day with good company.

Hulya Alkus

Hulya is a dedicated Behavior Therapist on the path to becoming a Registered Behavioral Therapist (RBT), with a strong interest in human psychology and behavior. She is a medical doctor trained in Turkey, with extensive experience working with children and families in hospitals, community programs, and educational projects. Hulya has provided mentorship, coaching, and individualized support both one-on-one and in group settings. As a writer and author, she has led workshops and interactive activities for young people, strengthening her communication and engagement skills. In the United States, Hulya has worked as a medical assistant, healthcare education manager, and caregiver, supporting individuals and families with daily care, structure, and emotional needs. She is passionate about helping individuals reach their full potential and is committed to ethical practice, professional growth, and compassionate care.

Brendan Balbier

Brendan brings a unique background growing up with Dyslexia and Dyspraxia giving him the will to help others even at a young age advocating for others and himself when their help was not given to them that they need to succeed. During this time it also showed him what a change it can have can be made when you find someone who's willing to put in the work with you to make sure that you reach your goals .Instilling a drive in him to help others reach their goals .As BT he works in schools and home setting .His goals are to keep learning and moving up to reach the most people he can .During Brendan's free time he enjoys the theater, reading, hikes with his dog, and painting.

Miguel Gibbs

Miguel Gibbs has a unique multicultural and professional background. Miguel is from Barbados / Venezuela, and he is bilingual (English, Spanish). Miguel has a Bachelor of Science degree in Clinical Psychology (ABA-Applied Behavior Analysis), a Master degree in Psychology, and a Doctoral degree in Psychology from the Central University of Venezuela. He has worked extensively with couples, families, adolescents and children in clinical and educational settings. Highly analytical, passionate, and detail-oriented professional, he is adept at developing individualized intervention plans and therapeutic treatment options. Miguel’s goal is to provide help to children and their families in order to build the skills they need to achieve their professional goals and life dreams. Committed to community service, he actively engages in volunteer work and social programs. He is also a sport, outdoors enthusiast and an avid marathon runner. Miguel is supervised by Dr. Albert Knapp, PsyD, BCBA-D, RPT-S Clinical Psychologist (PSY 25873). He is excited to become a team member at Albert Knapp and Associates!

Jane Dauksza Long

Jane Long is an Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW115273). She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern California (USC). After working in the entertainment industry and raising a family, she began to focus on helping older adults find assisted living outside of their homes. During this time, she was able to receive her master’s in social work from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She interned at Torrance Memorial Hospital IPA helping adults who were grieving and experiencing loneliness and isolation during the Covid 19 pandemic. She also volunteered at the Long Beach Rescue Mission at Lydia House which is the women’s shelter. She supported and assisted the women and leaders during the morning meetings. Jane approaches wellness from a holistic approach using therapeutic techniques along with acknowledging environmental barriers and learning how to overcome them. She is a strong believer in meeting clients where they are and giving them the time and space to help them work through their challenges. Jane has been married for over 30 years and is the mother of two adult children. In Jane’s free time, she plays tennis, hikes, goes to the theater, and spends time with her family.

Dr. Andrew Graham

Dr. Graham provides therapy and psychological testing for children, teens, and adults, helping clients and families gain clarity, support, and practical solutions. He works under the supervision of Dr. Albert Knapp, Clinical Psychologist. Dr. Graham’s evaluations are designed to give straightforward answers and recommendations that are easy to understand and useful at home, school, and work. In therapy, Dr. Graham draws from CBT, ACT, and DBT to help clients build coping skills, strengthen self-awareness, and make meaningful changes. He has worked in hospital, veteran, and outpatient settings, bringing broad experience to support clients through a wide range of life challenges. His style is collaborative, strength-based, and focused on helping clients and families feel understood and equipped to grow.

Ellen “Forrest” Rebecca Suh

Forrest Suh is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Albert Knapp and Associates. Forrest obtained their master's in clinical psychology at Antioch University in Los Angeles and previously practiced as an ABA therapist. Forrest loves to incorporate mindfulness-based skills into therapy and in their personal life/practice. Forrest emphasizes the importance of nurturing oneself and strengthening our communities through kindness and understanding. Forrest believes in a holistic approach to therapy that addresses mind, body, and spirit.

Hallie Rolph

Hallie Rolph, Associate Clinical Social Worker, (ACSW-132249), holds an MSW with a specialization in Integrated Health from California State University, Long Beach, and a BA in Research Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Sciences from the University of Nevada, Reno.

She provides holistic, client-centered therapy using creative interventions like art, play, and mindfulness.

Specializing in anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and identity, Hallie has worked with diverse populations including children, teens, adults, refugees, immigrants, and neurodivergent individuals, focusing on empowerment and collaboration.

Outside of the therapy room, she enjoys yoga, travel, reading, coffee, and adventures with loved ones.

Christina Asatryan

Christina earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of California, Riverside in 2023, after completing dual associate degrees in Natural Science and Social & Behavioral Science. Her passion for working with children and families began early, through her roles as a behavioral interventionist, developmental therapist, and tutor, where she supported children with autism, developmental delays, ADHD, and other diverse needs. Christina went on to gain extensive experience in neuropsychological testing and clinical assessment through her externship and psychometrician roles, where she administered standardized tests, assisted with case conceptualization, and collaborated with multidisciplinary teams and Adult Protective Services. Christina has focused on child-centered play therapy while integrating caregiver sessions and school collaboration to enhance progress beyond the therapy room. She is currently pursuing her PsyD in Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Christina is committed to learning, serving, and helping others, and she is honored to be a part of Albert Knapp and Associates as a doctoral extern.

Lily Lira

Lily is a doctoral trainee in clinical psychology at The Chicago School at Anaheim. She holds a master's degree in clinical psychology from the same institution and earned her bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Lily has experience working in community mental health and at a behavioral health hospital, serving children, adolescents, and adults. Lily’s clinical work is grounded in human-centered and cognitive behavioral approaches. Her style is warm, supportive, and collaborative, with a focus on creating a safe and affirming space for clients to explore, heal, and grow. With a background as a preschool teacher, Lily brings a deep passion for supporting children’s emotional and developmental well-being. She is committed to providing compassionate, culturally responsive care to individuals across the lifespan.

Jay Okereke

Jay is a doctoral-level advanced practicum student from The Chicago School. They received a Bachelor of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of California, San Diego, and minored in Health Care Social Issues. Their experience at the UCSD Empathy and Emotion Lab sparked their interest in emotion and reappraisal strategies, particularly in the long-term effects of emotion suppression strategies among families within diverse populations. More specifically, they learned and advocated for encouraging emotional expression and open communication among ethnic youth to avoid adverse health consequences associated with chronic emotional suppression strategies, such as depression and cardiovascular disease. During their graduate program, Jay has dedicated themselves to researching and working with diverse and marginalized individuals, gaining keen analytical and conceptual skills that aid in therapeutic intervention and neuropsychological assessments with severely mentally ill (SMI) individuals across age groups. They continue to assert the importance of investigating early intervention strategies among adolescent ethnic minorities while considering unique factors that influence their emotional and psychological development, such as acculturation, generational conflict, ethnic values, and varying perceptions of mental health and illness within their communities. Jay is committed to working with diverse and marginalized individuals to help eliminate stigma in seeking mental health services, build trust between mental health professionals and marginalized populations, and foster hope in a bright and peaceful future.

Tiffany Frechette

Tiffany is a doctoral student at The Chicago School in Anaheim, currently working toward her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Cognitive Psychology from the University of California, Irvine, and her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School. Tiffany comes to us with previous experience as an ABA therapist and ABA case supervisor. She is passionate about helping children and families grow in ways that feel meaningful to them. She also has experience doing therapy with children and older adults on the autism spectrum, as well as those living with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and severe cognitive and emotional challenges. Tiffany approaches therapy with compassion, empathy, and cultural humility, always meeting clients where they are and honoring their unique backgrounds and experiences. She believes in collaboration with clients to build coping skills, celebrate small victories, and move toward larger life goals at a pace that feels safe and supportive to them. As a bilingual clinician, Tiffany provides services in both English and Spanish, and she has a deep passion for multiculturalism and supporting clients from diverse communities. Outside of her work, Tiffany enjoys caring for her pets, spending time with family, and finding joy in the little things.

Naomi Pierce

Naomi graduated from UC Santa Barbara in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychological and Brain Sciences and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication. She is currently pursuing her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School in Anaheim. She began working with children in classroom settings in high school and has continued to work with infants through adolescents throughout the last decade. Her passion for working in mental health began during her undergraduate studies when she served as a Peer Mentor at the Koegel Autism Center. In this role, she worked with the Department of Rehabilitation to help adults achieve educational, social, and occupational goals. After graduating from college, Naomi worked as a Registered Behavior Therapist doing in-home early intervention applied behavior analysis. Within this setting, she worked on self-care, language, and behavioral goals through play. Outside of work and school, Naomi is passionate about neurodiversity advocacy and inclusion.

Jazmine Hernandez-Castillo

Jazmine earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in education from the University of California, Irvine in 2023. As a Latina, she was inspired to pursue a career in psychology after witnessing the impact of mental health challenges and the stigma surrounding them in her community. Her passion lies in breaking down these barriers and expanding access to mental health services for underserved populations. For the past three years, Jazmine has worked as an advanced behavioral technician, providing support to individuals with autism and facilitating social skills groups. These experiences have deepened her commitment to serving youth with diverse needs through evidence-based, compassionate care. Jazmine is currently pursuing her PsyD in Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She aspires to become a therapist for children from diverse cultural backgrounds and is excited to continue her training as a diagnostic practicum student at Albert Knapp and Associates.

Keona Brown

Keona is a Registered Psychological Associate supervised by Dr. Knapp, Psy.D, BCBA-D, RPT-S Clinical Psychologist. She is an Air Force veteran with a multidisciplinary background in working with individuals with severe mental illness (SMI), justice-involved populations, court-ordered treatment, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She is currently a doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology at California Southern University with clinical interests in using person-centered and mindfulness-based approaches to support neurodivergent children and their families. Outside of work, she enjoys relaxing and spending time with her tuxedo cat, Memphis.

Alexandra Faubert

Allie earned her bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in management from the University of Utah in 2024. Allie's love for working with children began when she was placed on an internship at the Children's Center, a therapeutic preschool in Salt Lake City. Later, she was employed as a Therapeutic Preschool Specialist, working with children who had diverse developmental and emotional needs. At this job, she fell in love with creative interventions, learning skills in both music and art therapy. During her college education, she had the opportunity to take classes in toddler and adolescent mental health, where her passion was further fostered. This led her to decide to pursue a career where she could work to improve the lives of children with special needs. She is currently receiving her training at The Chicago School in Anaheim, California, to earn her PsyD in clinical psychology. Allie is beyond excited to bring her passion and creativity to Albert Knapp and Associates as a diagnostic practicum student.

Andrea Bullinger

Andrea attended San Diego State University and earned her bachelor’s degree in three fields: biology, chemistry, and psychology in 2019. During college, Andrea volunteered at several healthcare facilities, including inpatient and outpatient hospital settings. Since graduating, she has worked as a Registered Behavior Technician in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) with children ages 2-16. While working in ABA, Andrea discovered her passion for helping children, especially those with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disorders. Andrea used play to implement interventions that improved her clients’ quality of life. She also built strong relationships with these children and their families. Andrea earned certifications in Autism and Safety Care to enhance her ability to serve this community. Currently, Andrea is attending The Chicago School to earn a PsyD in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Psychology. Her career goal is to assess, diagnose, and treat children with developmental and mental health disorders, as well as to promote societal awareness and acceptance of neurodivergent individuals. When she is not working or studying, Andrea enjoys reading, doing yoga, and walking her dog, Koda.

Alexes Degenfelder

Alexes Degenfelder is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. She holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles and a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development from New York University. Alexes provides compassionate, trauma-informed, and client-centered therapy. She utilizes a variety of approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, play-based techniques, family systems theory, and mindfulness practices. Dedicated to working collaboratively with caregivers, Alexes meets each client at their unique stage in their journey. She values creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered and actively engaged in their growth. Outside of the therapy room, Alexes enjoys time with family and friends, staying active, reading, and pursuing lifelong learning.

Amanda Arreola

Amanda Arreola is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Western University of Health Sciences. With over seven years of comprehensive nursing experience across diverse clinical settings, Amanda is dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals across the lifespan.

Her professional background includes working in high-acuity hospital environments, outpatient behavioral health programs, and community-based settings, where she developed a strong foundation in crisis intervention, psychiatric assessment, and integrated treatment planning. As a provider, Amanda is committed to fostering a therapeutic partnership with her patients, emphasizing personalized care, collaborative decision-making, and holistic wellness.

Driven by a passion for reducing mental health stigma and improving access to quality psychiatric services, Amanda continues to expand her expertise through ongoing education and advanced clinical training. She strives to create a safe, supportive environment where every patient feels heard, respected, and empowered in their mental health journey.

Stephen Smith

Stephen Smith, Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASCW-134885), earned his MSW from the University of California. He also earned his BA from the University of Vermont, majoring in English with a minor in Philosophy. Through his work experience at USC’s Telebehavioral Health Clinic as a Clinician, he has experience helping a diverse clientele navigate mental health challenges stemming from major life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationships, grief, trauma, and sleep disturbances. Stephen acknowledges clients as experts in their own lived experiences, focusing on providing psychoeducation and coping skills to empower them with a personalized toolkit for alleviating distress and living their best lives. In his free time, he enjoys creating music, writing, exercising, and exploring the outdoors.