Why Avanza ABA Was Built
Avanza ABA was founded to provide care that is more intentional, more consistent, and more connected to real life, so families can see meaningful progress where it matters most.
Rooted in care.
Guided by clinical excellence.
Avanza ABA is a clinician-founded practice built to deliver care that is intentional, responsive, and grounded in real life.
"Avanza," meaning to move forward, reflects our commitment to helping children and families make meaningful progress, at home, in school, and in everyday routines.
Every program is guided by clinical expertise and designed around the individual, not just the diagnosis, so progress is not only measured, but experienced in everyday life.
What to expect from working with us
From your first call through ongoing care, here is what you can always count on from our team.
Clear guidance from day one
We walk you through every step, from intake to ongoing services, so you always know what comes next.
Care that adapts as your child grows
Programs are continuously adjusted based on progress, not followed as a fixed plan.
Support beyond sessions
We focus on helping skills carry into daily routines, not just structured therapy time.
Consistency across environments
We align care across home, school, and community so progress doesn't stay in one place.
Communication you can rely on
You'll always know how your child is progressing and what we're working on next.
A team that stays engaged
Your child's care is actively guided, not passed off or left stagnant.
Meet the team guiding your child's progress
Every member of our team is selected for clinical excellence, genuine care, and a commitment to meaningful outcomes.
Valerie Smith, M.Ed, BCBA, LBA
Founder & Clinical Director
Avanza ABA was founded by Valerie Smith, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with extensive experience leading and developing large-scale ABA programs. Valerie provides direct clinical oversight, ensuring every client receives individualized, high-quality care rooted in both clinical excellence and real-life application. She is passionate about supporting families through collaboration, developing strong clinicians, and creating meaningful progress that extends beyond therapy sessions.
Stacy Luster, RBT
Lead Behavior Technician
Stacy plays a key role in delivering consistent, high-quality care and supporting the implementation of individualized treatment plans. She works closely with both families and clinical leadership to ensure sessions are engaging, effective, and aligned with each individual's goals. Known for her warm, approachable style, she helps create a supportive environment where meaningful progress can happen.
Danah Vierra
Intake Coordinator
Danah is often the first point of contact for families beginning their journey with Avanza ABA. She brings compassion and clarity to the intake process, ensuring families feel heard and supported from the very first conversation. Danah works to understand each family's unique situation and helps guide them through benefits verification and next steps with care and confidence.
Evelyn Ruiz, BCBA
Lead BCBA
Evelyn brings extensive clinical expertise and a deep commitment to individualized care. As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, she develops and oversees treatment plans that are tailored to each client's unique strengths and goals. Evelyn partners closely with families and the clinical team to ensure programs are effective, responsive, and grounded in evidence-based practice.
Our approach to care
At Avanza ABA, our team is built on more than credentials, we prioritize clinical quality, collaboration, and consistency. Every team member receives ongoing training, supervision, and support to ensure care remains ethical, individualized, and effective.
We believe progress happens when strong clinical guidance meets real-life application, and that guides everything we do.
Join our growing team
We're always looking for passionate clinicians and behavior technicians committed to high-quality care and meaningful outcomes.
Ready to advance together?
Let's connect. We'll answer your questions, verify your benefits, and build a plan around your family's goals.