Clinical Team
Michael Lafasakis, Ph.D., MS Ed., LBA/BCBA-D
The owner, President and Chief Executive Officer of Saint Paul’s Autism Research & Training Academy (SPARTA), a non-profit organization (501c3 designation pending) with a NY office and based in Kalampaka, Greece under the Holy Meteora. Currently preparing SPARTA’s applications in the United States (US) and Greece, office and land leases, business accounts and educational/treatment materials to begin research grant solicitations in the Spring of 2018.
SPARTA is expected to obtain grant funding between 2019-2020 and possibly begin soliciting research subjects between 2020-2022. Nonrandom sampling will be used to identify a maximum of 4 nonverbal children between ages 2-5 from rural and/or agricultural areas of Rethymno or other nearby cities of Crete and rest Greece. SPARTA’s research will consist of applying current and innovative ABA treatment practices for a full day at the child’s home and school.
Dr. Nathalia Ayala Aguilera, Ph.D., M.A. Ed.
Dr. Nathalia Ayala Aguilera is a clinical psychologist who earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a child and family concentration from the Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology at Adelphi University, where she also obtained master’s degrees in psychology and childhood education, along with certification in Students with Disabilities (Grades 1–6). Her doctoral research examined parental adjustment following a child’s autism diagnosis, focusing on attachment and parental understanding of autism.. Dr. Nathalia integrates cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic approaches in treatment and is committed to culturally responsive, evidence-based care. She is fluent in Spanish and has a background in education and special education, which informs her work with children, families, and schools.
Benjamin Thomas, Ph.D., BCBA
Benjamin Thomas is Associate Clinical Director of the Claremont Autism Center at Claremont McKenna College, and has been a Board Certified Behavior Analystâ (BCBAâ) since 2007. He holds a master’s degree in psychology from Queen’s College of the City University of New York, and is completing his doctorate in developmental psychology at Claremont Graduate University. Ben has over 16 years of experience providing service and training to individuals with developmental disabilities, as well as their families and educators in a variety of settings. Ben has also published research in peer-reviewed journals and presented at local, state, national, and international conferences on topics related to behavioral assessment, intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder.
Nicolle Tursenovic, M.S., LBA, BCBA
Ms. Tursenovic is a NYS Certified School Psychologist and NYS Licensed Behavior Analyst holding a limited permit. Ms. Tursenovic received her Master’s in School Psychology from St. John’s University in New York in 2010 and an advanced certification in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from the Florida Institute of Technology in 2014. Ms. Tursenovic has practiced ABA under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) since 2007 within various settings, including schools, homes, and hospitals. Within these settings, Ms. Tursenovic has worked with children, adolescents, and adults with Autism, Developmental Disabilities, and Psychiatric Disorders.
Ms. Tursenovic has worked as a School Psychologist since 2010, providing counseling and crisis intervention to students of varying disabilities, district-wide parent training to parents of students with Autism, as well as providing psycho-educational evaluations. Ms. Tursenovic has extensive experience working with non-verbal children with Autism, teaching basic communication and self-help skills. Ms. Tursenovic also worked as part of a unique team developed by the Department of Justice, within an acute psychiatric in-patient hospital setting, developing behavioral management systems and protocols, as well as educating staff on principles of behavior and teaching behavior management strategies. This was part of an initiative to improve the quality of patient care in hospital settings, as well as reduce problematic or dangerous behaviors among patients. As the Associate Executive Director of SPARTA., Ms. Tursenovic looks forward to continuing to provide quality ABA services to children with Autism and their families.
Joanna Papallo, MS Ed., LBA,BCBA
Joanna Spartinos is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA). She is also a teacher, who has earned both her Childhood Education and Students with Disabilities NYS Professional Certifications for Grades 1-6. Ms. Spartinos graduated from Adelphi University in 2011 with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a double minor in education and history. She also received her Master’s degree in Childhood Education from Adelphi University, in addition to an Advanced Certificate in Special Education in 2012. In May 2018, Joanna earned an Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis from Queens College. During her time at Queens College, she worked with her professor and peers on research which was published in the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis. She has five years of classroom experience as a General Education instructor, which helped to develop her teaching skills, as well as her mastery of how to effectively design and differentiate curriculum in all subject areas for all learners. Joanna’s vast experience providing ABA services to students diagnosed with ASD and other disabilities has led to her advancement in skills such as discrete trial training, incidental teaching, and implementing activity schedules. Her passion for this field and initiative in seeking learning opportunities ensures a lasting commitment to serving her clients to the utmost of her abilities.
Stamatios Gianoumis, M.Phil/ABD, MS Ed., BCBA
Stamatios, aka Tommy, has dedicated his professional career to the treatment of individuals with ASD and the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. He attained a Masters in the Clinical Application of Behavior Analysis through Queens College/CUNY and attended the Learning Processes and Behavior Analysis PhD program through The Graduate Center/CUNY. Stamatios furthered his education at Hunter College/CUNY studying Special Education. Driven by the ever-growing ASD epidemic and the limitation of having only two hands, he focused his research and clinical practice in the training and supervision of interventionists for individuals with ASD, so they may deliver the highest quality of services possible, using peer-reviewed research-validated treatments. Stamatios also enjoys applying this training/supervision model to the families of the children he works with, giving them the tools they need to be active proponents of positive change in their child’s life.
Nadia Vlacich, Psy.D
Ms. Nadia
Nicole Wright, MA, LBA,BCBA
Nicole Wright is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst here at SPARTA. She earned her Masters in ABA at Queens College CUNY, and her thesis research on Stimulus Equivalence has been approved for publication in the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis. Her experience in ABA includes a wide array of populations, ranging from preschool age children with ASD to senior citizens with comorbid psychological disorders. Nicole values learning opportunities, and regularly attends conferences and workshops on proven research strategies for treatment in order to increase her competency and better serve clients.
Paulina Borja, Ms Ed., BCBA
Paulina was born and raised in Quito, Ecuador. She came to the United States in 2001 to be part of an experimental education program at The Early Childhood Center of Bennington College in Vermont. She graduated in 2014 with a Master Degree in Early Childhood Special Education from CUNY Hunter College. Paulina started learning and training on ABA while working at New York Center for Infants and Toddlers, and Early Intervention ABA Center where she provided 1:1 therapy to young children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Later, when she join the McCarton Center as ABA therapist, she had the opportunity to work with children with ASD and their families in Cyprus, Bahamas and Turkey. In 2017 she became a board-certified behavior analyst. She relocated back to New York City in 2018 when she joined the team of Dr. Michael Lafasakis in their mission to serve children with Autism and their families providing comprehensive ABA services and support research on Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Greg Forbes, M.A., LBA, BCBA
Greg Forbes is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with over 15 years of progressive experience in Applied Behavior Analysis, delivering data-driven services across clinical, educational, and residential settings. He completed his academic training at the University of the West Indies in Jamaica, the University of Massachusetts Lowell, and William James College, equipping him with a strong foundation in both behavioral science and applied clinical practice. Throughout his career, Greg has supported a diverse population of learners, ranging from early intervention (36 months) to adulthood, including individuals in group home environments. His expertise spans comprehensive behavioral assessment, individualized treatment design, and the implementation of evidence-based interventions aimed at improving functional outcomes and promoting independence.
At SPARTA, Greg serves as an ABA Supervisor, where he provides clinical leadership and oversight across cases. In this role, he is responsible for supervising and mentoring behavior technicians, ensuring the integrity and fidelity of treatment implementation, and utilizing data analytics to inform clinical decision-making. He works collaboratively with families, educators, and interdisciplinary teams to drive meaningful progress and sustainable outcomes.
Briana Patruno , M.A., B.A., LBA, BCBA
Briana Patruno has her bachelor’s and master’s degree in psychology – specializing in developmental psychology. She received an advanced certification in applied behavior analysis (ABA) from St. Joseph’s University. Briana started her psychology career working as a direct support professional for kids with ASD and then became a behavior intervention specialist for people of all ages with various intellectual/developmental disabilities and psychological disorders. Then she entered the ABA field in 2021. Briana became a licensed behavior analyst (LBA) in the state of New York and a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) in 2024. She continues to work with students with ASD providing 1:1 support, as well as supervise cases and provide parent training with an individualized approach.
Valerie Duluc, MA, LBA-LP
Valerie Duluc is a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and Assistant Supervisor holding a New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA) limited permit. Valerie graduated in 2016 with her bachelor’s degree from Iona University and later obtained her Master of Arts in Psychology from the City University of New York.
With over 10 years of experience, Valerie has worked with children and adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Currently, Valerie provides individualized, 1:1 ABA therapy sessions tailored to each student’s unique needs, incorporating evidence-based strategies, sensory-informed practices, and engaging recreational activities to promote meaningful skill development.
In her role as an Assistant Supervisor, Valerie also assists in training staff and provides parent training to support consistency and long-term success across environments. She is committed to compassionate, collaborative care that empowers individuals and families to reach their fullest potential.
Outside of her professional work, Valerie enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with her family.
Dr. Naaadjeley Ama Kuma, PhD.
Mr. Naaadjeley
Danielle Shomer
Ms. Danielle
Clarissa Wilkonson, MS
Clarissa Wilkinson has received her Bachelors in Arts and Science at Alvernia University and obtained her Masters of Science in Psychology with a concentration in ABA shortly after, with Kaplan University. She has 10 years’ experience working with children with developmental disabilities, and 5 of those years specifically in ABA. Clarissa has experience working with many different disabilities including Down Syndrome, Autism, Social Emotional as well as Oppositional Defiant to name a few. She is continuing to pursue her license as a Behavioral Analyst for the state of New York and enjoys working in the field of ABA with children.
Senovia Boone, MD Ed.
Senovia Boone, M.S.Ed., is a Certified Special Education Teacher who has been supporting children with special needs since 2017. She holds a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education and an advanced Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) certificate from the Florida Institute of Technology. Senovia is also a New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst with a limited permit. She specializes in Early Intervention, working with children as young as 18 months through adolescence, and has experience as an ABA head teacher in a center-based program as well as providing individualized home-based special instruction.
Senovia’s approach combines evidence-based ABA strategies with a strong commitment to supporting families. She believes children learn best when caregivers are actively involved and strives to create supportive, inclusive environments where every child can grow.
Outside of work, Senovia enjoys spending time with her family, good pizza, and dancing with her children.
Christopher Buenrostro, B.S., CADC-III, ICADC
Christopher Buenrostro is the Lead Researcher at SPARTA, responsible for leading and conducting empirical research within the organization. These projects include literature reviews, data management and analysis, writing research papers, conference presentations, broad ambassadorship, and serving as a project lead on SPARTA’s clinical trials in Greece and the United States. In addition, Christopher is responsible for developing improved technology-assisted interventions for students and providers, including ABA-focused therapy applications and provider-facing interfaces. Christopher graduated from Santa Clara University (SCU) in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and is currently completing his Doctorate of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology at Louisiana State University (LSU).
Sofia Drakaki, BA
Sofia Drakaki graduated from the University of Crete in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. In addition, she holds a C2 level Test of Interactive English from the service of Quality of Qualifications Ireland (ACELS) in 2015 and a B2 level Certificate of the practical application of the French language “Understanding and Expression” from the University of Paris-Sorbonne in 2016. Also, she is certified in the use of computers in the following “Word Processing, Spreadsheets, Internet Services, Databases, Computer Practice & File Management.” In 2018, she participated and completed the training program from the University of Aegean with the theme “Training in Intercultural Education.” In 2019, she also attended and completed the training program from the University of Aegean for “Special Education.” For the last five years, she has worked as an ABA therapist with students diagnosed with ASD at Saint Paul’s Autism Research & Training Academy (SPARTA). Since October 2022, she has taken a supervising role in Greece.
Executive Team
George Meskouris, BA
Mr. Meskouris joined Kidz Choice in 2013 as an administrative assistant, and is now overseeing all daily business operations, which include: compliance, staff/human resources, payroll, health insurance, and information technology. Mr. Meskouris is a vital part of our team of autism treatment providers and contributes greatly to our advocacy and family support services. Mr. Meskouris received his Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Queens College, and has a strong and well-rounded background in business management and information technology. In his free time, Mr. Meskouris enjoys going to the gym, riding his motorcycle and playing the drums
Niko Moustakis
Mr. Niko
Michael Kosvyras, M.Eng.
Mr. Kosvyras holds a Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Patras, Greece. He has more than ten years of professional experience in information technology, systems management, and nonprofit operations.
From 2016 to 2023, he worked with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), supporting large-scale IT infrastructure and digital transformation initiatives across humanitarian operations in Greece and abroad. His work focused on designing and maintaining reliable technology systems that support field operations and coordination in complex environments.
Since 2023, he has been serving as the Operations Manager of SPARTA NPO (Τα Παιδιά του Αγίου Παύλου – Ακαδημία Έρευνας και Εκπαίδευσης Αυτισμού). In this role, he oversees the organization’s operational planning, technological infrastructure, and digital systems, helping support its mission to advance autism awareness, research, and education.
Mr. Kosvyras has also contributed to peer-reviewed academic publications in the fields of computer engineering, digital systems, and embedded technologies. He brings together technical expertise and operational experience with a strong commitment to social impact and inclusive education.
Wendy Minaya, A.S.
Wendy brings over 25 years of experience in the customer service-client relations, office management, and record keeping. As an Executive Office Administrator, she plays a vital role in supporting both clients and staff, ensuring smooth operations, clear communication, and effective problem-solving on all sides.
Known for her steady commitment and reliability, Wendy has built strong, lasting relationships throughout her career. She takes pride in being a dependable resource, always ready to assist and create positive experiences for everyone she works with.
Outside of her professional life, Wendy is a proud daughter, partner, and devoted mother of two. Her dedication to family mirrors the loyalty and care she brings to her work every day.
Karen Mizzi
Karen Mizzi is the Staffing & Recruiting Coordinator for Kidz Choice Services, where she sources and conducts all of the initial interviews for various departments. With almost 25 years of experience in senior retail management for a Fortune 500 company as well as a Forbes’ Top Ranked Private Company and America’s leading educational resource company, Karen brings a unique perspective to talent acquisition, always looking for those that can bring experience and educational credibility but also those willing to craft new ideas for their students, support families to the utmost and inspire the team to always move forward. Karen is inspired daily by the enthusiasm she sees in new recruits and in the absolute dedication seen in the executive team members.
Thomas Spartinos, RBT
Thomas Spartinos has been working at Kidz Choice since 2018. His primary roles consist of curriculum development, providing transportation for clients, keeping track of inventory, and assisting with compliance duties. Prior to this experience, Thomas worked at a busy retail chain. His management experience has led him to become a valuable asset to Kidz Choice. Thomas is planning on resuming his studies to obtain a degree in Psychology in the next year. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, and working out.
Youssef Adham
Mr. Youssef