About Me
Hello and welcome! I’m Marissa Amat-Rogers (she/her). I’m a Board Certified Behavior Analyst based in San Diego, and I’ve been working in the field of ABA for almost a decade. I care a lot about helping people grow, supporting families, and making sure therapy feels respectful, doable, and actually helpful in real life.
I grew up here in San Diego and graduated from San Diego State University in 2014 with a degree in Sociology. I got into ABA because I wanted to do work that made a real difference for kids and families. In 2015, I joined the Center for Behavioral Sciences as a Behavior Technician. I ended up staying for several years, became Social Coordinator for the staff, and was named RBT of the Year twice — which meant a lot to me at the time.
In 2020, I moved to L.E.T.S. Grow in La Mesa and continued as an RBT while starting my master’s program. I finished my M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2021, passed my BCBA exam in 2023 (and married my best friend that same year!), and then shifted into BCBA roles like supervising cases, training staff, and coordinating programs.
What I Do Now
These days, I work as an independent BCBA. That means I’m not tied to a big company’s quotas or strict protocols, and I can actually focus on what’s best for the families I work with. I love parent training, hybrid/parent-led models, and gentle ABA that respects neurodiversity and prioritizes dignity, communication, and real-world skills.
I also stay involved in the community through two roles that I’m really proud of:
Social Media & Marketing Manager for APIABA (Asian Pacific Islander Association for Behavior Analysis) — where I get to support representation, mentorship, and culturally responsive practices in our field.
BCBA service provider for Legacy ADHC — where I support adults with functional skills, communication, and independence in a healthcare setting.
These roles keep me connected to both the clinical and community sides of ABA, which I really value.
How I Think About ABA
My personal philosophy is pretty simple:
ABA should be gentle and collaborative
Parents and caregivers deserve support, not judgment
Clients deserve respect, dignity, and autonomy
Data is important, but people come first
Therapy should fit the family, not the other way around
I’ve seen firsthand that when families understand the “why” behind behavior and feel supported, things get better — not just for the child, but for everyone.
Top Games of the Moment:
January 2026
Fallout: New Vegas - PC
Cosmere Tabletop RPG
Mission Statement:
My mission is to provide compassionate, evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services that empower individuals and their families to thrive. By focusing on collaboration, personalized strategies, and measurable outcomes, I strive to create meaningful and socially significant changes that respect each client's unique journey. Together, we work to build skills, overcome challenges, and foster independence while celebrating every step of progress along the way.
Commitment to
Diversity, Inclusion, and Respect
I am deeply committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of my work. I believe that every individual deserves respect, dignity, and personalized care, regardless of their background, identity, or abilities.
I actively embrace the unique experiences and perspectives of the clients and families I serve, creating a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered. My practice is guided by the principles of cultural competence, linguistic accessibility, and an unwavering commitment to inclusivity.
In alignment with these values, I uphold a zero-tolerance policy for hateful rhetoric, discrimination, or any form of disrespect. This commitment extends to all interactions within my practice, ensuring that everyone—clients, families, and collaborators—can engage in a space rooted in mutual understanding and respect. Together, we work to build stronger, more compassionate communities.
Prioritizing Mental Health in ABA
Mental health is a cornerstone of well-being and plays a vital role in the success of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services. I recognize its critical importance not only for the individuals and families I serve but also for the professionals within this field. Supporting clients and families goes beyond skill-building; it requires a holistic approach that acknowledges the emotional and psychological aspects of growth and learning.
As someone who also struggles with mental health, I deeply understand the challenges it can bring. I am committed to fostering an environment of understanding, support, and compassion. This commitment extends to giving grace not only to those I work with but also to myself, acknowledging that personal well-being is a journey that requires patience, empathy, and continuous effort.
By prioritizing mental health, we enhance the effectiveness of interventions, build stronger relationships, and empower individuals to achieve meaningful, lasting progress. This commitment also extends to caregivers, families, and staff, creating a collaborative atmosphere where everyone can thrive. Together, we can create a foundation of well-being that supports positive change, celebrates growth, and respects the mental health needs of all involved.
“Remember, put your mask on first before helping others.”