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
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.