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Our Mission

We provide specialized training and mentorship to ABA providers dedicated to improving lives through evidence-based practices.

FOUNDED IN MIAMI

Bridging Theory and Practice

First Steps Research and Training was established with a clear vision: to empower the next generation of ABA professionals in Miami and beyond. What began as a local initiative has grown into a cornerstone for evidence-based mentorship and collaborative research. Our journey is rooted in the belief that by bridging academic university programs with real-world clinical application, we can significantly elevate the quality of life for the diverse populations we serve. Every step we’ve taken since our founding has been toward building a more inclusive, research-driven community of practitioners.

Education

We collaborate with university programs to provide a rigorous practical foundation, supporting RBT, BCaBA, and BCBA candidates in their journey toward professional excellence.

Our Evidence-Based Approach

Job Placement

We provide job placement assistance for those that complete our RBT and BCBA training sequences, providing a direct pipeline to meaningful and gainful employment upon completion.

Research

We cultivate an environment for applied research, contributing to the ABA literature by focusing on best-practice training outcomes with culturally diverse populations.

Our Impact in South Florida

100+

Providers Trained

4

University Partners

Our data-driven approach strengthens the South Florida ABA community by building sustainable mentorship pipelines and advancing clinical research that serves culturally diverse populations.

Meet The Team

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Dr. Paloma Rodriguez, BCBA-D

President and Founder

With over 20 years in behavior analysis, Paloma drives the mission of changing the face of ABA in South Florida, one provider at a time.

Jenilee Acevedo-Medina, BCBA

Director of Community Engagement

Jeniless connects our organization with local community advocates and university partners to expand our reach.

Dr. Tracy Capote-Sanchez, BCBA-D

Director of Research

Tracy leads our research initiatives and university partnerships, while mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in individual research projects.

Sarah Gonzalez, BCBA

Director of Training

Sarah specializes in supporting RBT and BCBA candidates through hands-on training and clinical supervision.

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