This field found her first.

Alana's interest in behavior analysis began at home — when her younger twin brothers were diagnosed with Autism, and she saw first-hand what a well-implemented ABA program could do.

She earned a double bachelor's degree in Psychology and Special Education from New York University, then spent years as a special education teacher in New York City and Miami. In 2015 she received her master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Nova Southeastern University; in 2017 she became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst — and in December 2021, she opened the doors of Maven in Behavior.

For the last 15 years, Alana has worked with children on the Autism spectrum. Her personal background and breadth of special-education experience shape how she tailors every program — and how she relates to the staff she leads and the families she serves.

15+ yrs

working with children on the spectrum

BCBA

founded, owned & clinically led

2021

Maven in Behavior opens in South Miami

The team

The people your child will love seeing.

Registered Behavior Technicians deliver every 1:1 session under BCBA supervision — and most of our team is actively advancing toward the next credential.

Christina Rodriguez, M.S., BCBA

Clinical Director

Christina has been a Board Certified Behavior Analyst since 2021 and has worked in the field since 2007. Before becoming a BCBA, she was a special education teacher for over ten years and an autism specialist at the University of Miami. Christina is also the owner and founder of OJM Behavioral Services; Maven in Behavior and OJM work collaboratively to provide behavioral services and educational supports including IEP support, classroom observations, and trainings.

Sury Maria Boutros Arias

RBT

Originally from Camagüey, Cuba, Sury has dedicated her career to supporting children with special needs. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Special Education from the University of Camagüey, graduating with honors, and led an autism-awareness initiative in 2014 during her studies. She relocated to the United States in 2017, earned her RBT certification in 2019, and joined Maven in Behavior in March 2022.

Gabriella Herrera

RBT

Gabriella has been a dedicated Registered Behavior Technician since 2020 and is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Behavior Analysis at Florida International University. She is passionate about using evidence-based practices to make a positive impact — celebrating each child’s unique strengths and finding daily inspiration in their resilience and progress.

Gabriela Villena

RBT

Gabriela graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and is currently in graduate school studying to become a BCBA. Before joining Maven in Behavior in December 2023, she worked as a preschool teacher and assistant. Building positive relationships with her clients brings her fulfillment and joy.

Lya Lauture

RBT

Lya is continuing her education to obtain her master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis and earn her BCBA certification. Her enthusiasm for watching children learn and thrive drives her commitment to compassionate, effective support in every session.

Paola Guareschi

RBT

Originally from Venezuela, Paola earned her master’s degree in ABA from the University of Miami and has worked in the field since 2021. Her work is driven by a passion for behavioral science and a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact in her community.

Not sure where to begin? Start with a conversation.

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