Gabriela Pena
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Gabriela is a BCBA who graduated from Florida International University with a Master's in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis. She is fully committed to success of the families she works with by bringing empathy and quality of care. Equally important, she feels passionate about establishing rapport with parents and providing them with the tools to manage their children's problem behaviors confidently. Gabbie can also be seen to embrace her Cuban roots with her love for croquetas and cafecito. She aspires to create safe spaces, filled with open communication, collaboration, and plenty of positive reinforcement.
Therapeutic Specialties
Autism / Aspergers, ADHD, Verbal Behavior, Daily Living Skills, Decrease Aggressive behaviors, Parent Training, School Support, Token Systems, Language Support, Learning and Academic Skills
What is important to you, for your client to feel, when working with you?
It's important to me that my client finds it is a safe space when working with me. I want them to feel included, heard, and understood. Working with me means support, trust, and open communication.
Who do you believe you are for a client as they manage their problems?
I see myself as a support system. I am here to provide them with the tools needed to succeed and navigate through the hardship at hand.
What drives your passion for seeing clients?
Progress. Knowing that we are working towards a goal to better integrate into society and we are 1% better each and every day.
How do you believe clients "get better"?
Teamwork. When everyone in the client's life can come together and collaborate for the client's learning and success, they will be one step closer to "getting better." Consistency across people and settings is pivotal.
Treat a child as though he already is the person he’s capable of becoming. - Haim G. Ginott
ABA Department
Education
Florida International University, B.S. in Psychology, ABA track
Florida International University, M.S. in Psychology in ABA
Client Age Range
Children (2-6), Children (6-12)
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish
Personal Hobbies
When I'm not working, I am most likely cooking up something yummy, embracing my Cuban culture with croquetas and cafecitos, or catching a sunrise or sunset with friends. I also enjoy taking time to relax and unwind with a therapy session, music, or hot yoga class.