Northwest Behavior Consultants

Ryan Wood has been a part of Ferraro Behavior Services, LLC as a Behavior Consultant since May of 2012. He received a Master of Arts degree in applied behavior analysis at Ball State University and went on to receive a certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis. He has worked within the Mental Health field for a number of years in many different capacities. He has experience as a direct care staff person, residential supervisor and QMRP within Waiver and group home settings. He chooses to be in this field because he thoroughly enjoys helping and serving others.

Ashley Lusco received a bachelor’s degree in social work at Indiana University South Bend. She also graduated with a master’s in social work from Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis. Ashley has been working in the field of Social Work since 2015. Ashley's experience working with a variety of individuals from different areas in the field during this time. Ashley strives to help individuals reach their goals while utilizing all available resources possible to complete those goals.

Austin Leisure has been a part of Ferraro Behavior Services, LCC as a Behavior Consultant since August 2018. He holds a Master of Science Degree in Special Education from the University of Saint Francis. He has worked within the Mental Health field since 2011 in many different capacities. He has experience in teaching, direct support staff, house manager, and QDDP within the Waiver home setting. Austin enjoys being in the field, improving the quality of life, and building relationships.

 Brenda graduated from Indiana University in 2010 with her bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. She then completed her Master's of Social Work at Walden University in 2020. She has worked with adults and juveniles in the criminal justice system and the child welfare system. Brenda has worked with individuals with disabilities for 10 years. She has provided direct care in a sheltered workshop and taught independent living skills at a day center. She has also provided care in waiver and supported living homes. She then provided Case Management services for the medicaid waiver. She is passionate about working with individuals, families, and team members to assist the individual on identifying and reaching personal goals. Brenda is passionate about supporting individuals in reaching their desired quality of life.

Brooke graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Grace College. She has been involved in the field of Developmental Disabilities for over 30 years, working in a variety of roles throughout her career. Her experience includes directly supporting people with developmental and behavioral needs, training direct support and management staff as well as ensuring quality of services. Brooke has worked as a Registered Behavior Consultant for over six years in addition to her other duties and has recently decided to focus on Behavior Consulting which has always been her primary passion.

Christina received her master's degree in Educational and Developmental Psychology from Andrews University in 2000. She worked as a Principal at South Bend Junior Academy, the Chairman of the School Board for said institution and has worked for the past five years as a behavior consultant in South Bend Indiana. In 2015, Christina was recognized for outstanding advocacy from Indiana Professional Management Group (IPMG). Christina's greatest strengths are her creativity, drive, leadership and insistence for consistency with all involved. She thrives on challenges, particularly those that expand the clients' ideals for themselves.

Danielle received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a dual major in Sociology from Grace College, and graduated with her Master's degree in Social Work from Indiana University with a concentration in Mental Health and Addictions. Danielle also completed her internship at Ferraro Behavior Services prior to graduating. Danielle has worked in the field for a number of years. She has been a direct support staff working in the homes with the clients at Cardinal Services in Warsaw. She also worked for the Bowen Center as a Rehabilitation Service Provider teaching social and independent living skills to clients with a wide range of abilities and needs. Danielle truly enjoys being in the field, assisting people to improve their quality of living, building lasting meaningful relationships, and improving personal growth.or to graduating. Danielle has worked in the field for a number of years. She has been a direct support staff working in the homes with the clients at Cardinal Services in Warsaw. She also worked for the Bowen Center as a Rehabilitation Service Provider teaching social and independent living skills to clients with a wide range of abilities and needs. Danielle truly enjoys being in the field, assisting people to improve their quality of living, building lasting meaningful relationships, and improving personal growth. 

Diana Hernandez received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Indiana University of South Bend. She began working with individuals with autism at an ABA center while attending IUSB. She went on to pursue her master’s degree in applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University and has a cumulative of ten years working with individuals with Developmental Disabilities. Diana enjoys being in the field because she loves building positive relationships with her clients and their families as they collaborate as a team to help improve the lives of those she serves, “being bilingual has helped me serve my hispanic community and it is something I do with great honor and dedication.”

Elicia attained her Master’s Degree from Indiana University South Bend in May 2018, specializing in Counseling & Human Services. She possesses a strong passion of collaborating with individuals across diverse age groups, addressing a wide spectrum of behavioral needs and varying levels of intellectual disabilities. This engagement spans educational institutions, households, and residential establishments. Elicia’s primary aspiration revolves around establishing meaningful connections with families and collaborative team members to ensure optimal care for the individuals she serves. She harbors a keen interest in nurturing social skills and effective communication strategies in her clients, enabling them to unlock their utmost potential.

In her spare time, Elicia enjoys activities such as reading, indulging in true crime documentaries, engaging in crafting endeavors, and cherishing quality moments with her children and grandchildren. Her professional skills will encompass Elkhart, St. joseph, Kosciusko, Marshall, and LaGrange counties.

It is noteworthy that Elicia is returning to FBS after a hiatus in 2019.

Jodi received a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Manchester College and a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Saint Francis. She is a licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Indiana. Prior to joining Ferraro Behavioral Services, she worked at Allen County Community Corrections as the facility's Clinical Division Section Chief. In addition, she has prior experience working with adolescences with behavioral, genetic, and neurological disorders. Jodi chose to begin a career as a behavior consultant because of the opportunity it provides her to make a difference by helping clients improve his or her daily functioning. 

Larissa earned her Bachelor's Degree in Educational Ministries from Huntington University and went on to earn her Master's Degree in School Counseling from Indiana University. Larissa has had a passion for working with individuals with disabilities since childhood as her brother was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. Larissa has over 10 years of professional experience working with individuals with disabilities including serving as a QMRP, working in the classroom setting and has experience with individuals of all ages including early intervention through senior services. Larissa has been working with Ferraro Behavior Services since April 2016. 

Lauren studied elementary and special education at Anderson University. During her undergrad she worked as a job skills coach helping high school students with special needs develop skills for the workforce. She also volunteered for the Special Olympics in Madison County. Lauren worked as a direct support professional for several years before going back to school. She received a Master’s in Psychology from Indiana Tech before starting with Ferraro. Besides her passion for working with the special needs population she also enjoys playing basketball, spending time with her family, and anything outdoors. 

Richard Gunn has been a part of Ferraro Behavior Services, LLC as a Behavior Consultant since September of 2017. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from Trine University, and graduated with his Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University. Richard has worked in the social work field since 2008. He has been a direct support staff working in group homes, and supporting living homes with AWS in Fort Wayne, and number of other companies. Richard has also worked at Lighthouse Autism Center doing heavy ABA work with teenagers and young kids ages 5-16. Richard truly enjoys working with this population and helping his clients improve their quality of life, and reach the goals that they desire to reach!

Roy Contreraz is a seasoned professional based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with a dedication to serving the community across northern Indiana. Armed with a mater’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University, Roy brings two decades of experience in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. His extensive background spans both the healthcare and behavioral sectors, reflecting his multifaceted expertise and commitment to enhancing lives. 

Driven by a passion for unlocking individual potential, Roy is deeply invested in empowering others to achieve their goals. Whether advocating for developmental support or fostering growth opportunities, he remains steadfast in his mission to facilitate positive change. Outside of his professional endeavors, Roy finds joy in his family time with his two children and indulges in hobbies ranging from weightlifting and car mechanics to the tranquility of kayaking.

Tim received a Bachelor’s degree in Social Psychology, completed coursework for Secondary Education, and a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Western Michigan University. Prior to joining Ferraro Behavioral Services, he worked with Behavior Services and Therapy as a Behavior Consultant. Tim has experience working with students both in high school and those working toward a college degree. Tim feels there must be a personal connection between the consultant and the client to see positive change.  The consultant feels natural friendships and community access can make a difference in a client’s quality of life in a positive way.