About Nicole Rasavage, Ed.D., BCBA-D, LDT-C
My educational training emphasizes special education.
In 2010, I founded Success Across the Spectrum. I am a committed educator who has just as much a passion for learning as I do for teaching. As an undergraduate at The College of New Jersey, I double-majored in psychology and elementary education and later received my Master’s in Special Education from Rider University.
My growing interest and confidence in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis led me to pursue BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) coursework through Rutgers University. I then earned my Ed.D. after completing Nova Southeastern University’s doctoral program in special education and completing a behavior analytic dissertation on training paraprofessionals.
Most recently, I completed Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant coursework through Rutgers University which enabled me to earn my LDT-C certification.
Teaching provided me hands-on experience with student learning.
My experience as a classroom teacher brings a unique perspective to Success Across the Spectrum.
I taught for 14 years in the public school system in self-contained ABA, E/BD, and co-teaching classrooms. As a result of this experience, I know the importance of having home-based and school-based programs work in conjunction, and I use my insight to ensure that my learners succeed across settings.
I feel gratified when I witness a learner using a skill in the natural environment previously taught in therapy. I love seeing how acquired skills can lead learners to access more inclusive environments and become more independent. If these skills can also positively impact the family’s life, that is icing on the cake!
When I’m not working…
I enjoy spending time with my husband and two young children. I am in constant pursuit of personal growth and enjoy reading in all areas. I also enjoy home decorating and watching HGTV for inspiration.
About Justine Brancato, MAT, BCBA
My passion is to see children succeed.
I desire to create socially significant changes in learners that extend beyond their immediate learning environments and take place in the community.
My proudest moments are when learners access and enjoy a social environment or activity that they previously could not do, like a birthday party or the playground.
I love seeing families witness their children participating in age-appropriate activities. My goal is always to help learners be as independent as possible, and I find fulfillment in acknowledging each step along the way!
My educational background…
I joined Success Across the Spectrum (SATS) in 2018 as a BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst). In January 2021, I assumed the roles of co-owner and co-director.
My knowledge and experience as an educator began during my undergraduate years at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ). As an undergraduate, I double-majored in psychology and elementary education, eventually earning my Masters of Art in Teaching (MAT) Special Education at TCNJ.
The field of ABA piqued my interest when I worked alongside a BCBA in my teaching practicum. Upon receiving my MAT, I immediately began my BCBA coursework.
My teaching experience includes many different settings.
While pursuing my certification, I worked as an ABA therapist in the home, clinic, and school settings. Upon receiving Board Certification, I expanded my services within the home and clinical settings by developing treatment plans and overseeing their implementations by the ABA therapists and RBTs. I have provided extensive, comprehensive consultative support to NJ public elementary schools.
I have consulted for a variety of classrooms and am abundantly aware of the importance of individualizing my recommendations to meet the specific needs of the students and teachers. I have played integral roles in school collaboration teams and am conscious of establishing consistent protocols and expectations for learners across settings.
My commitment is to be an everlasting ally for learners and their families in the home, community, and school.
When I’m not working…
I love to spend time exploring new markets and restaurants with my husband and spending time with our two cats at home. I am also a house plant collector and garden enthusiast, so there is almost always something plant related on my to-do list!