Owners, Directors, and Administrators
Allison co-founded ASPIRE in 2005 to meet the growing needs of individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities in the Austin area. She brings over 30 years of experience working with children and adults, beginning with 11 years in the public school system and expanding into private practice, where she has implemented Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) since 1999. Allison earned her Bachelor of Education from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and her Master of Education in Special Education from the University of Texas at Austin, with a dual emphasis on Autism/Developmental Disabilities and Early Childhood Education. She has been an active leader in the community, serving on multiple boards and advisory groups. Her roles have included contributing to the regional advisory task force for the Texas Council on Autism & Pervasive Developmental Disorders, serving as a founding board member of William’s School, and past President of the Autism Society of Central Texas. Outside of her professional work, Allison enjoys traveling, gardening, and spending time with animals.
Allison Gouris
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Co-Owner, Executive Director
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M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Kristi graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1999 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology before returning to UT to complete her Master of Education with an emphasis on Autism/Developmental Disabilities and Early Childhood Education. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with over 25 years experience implementing Applied Behavior Analysis and has contracted with school districts to provide in-home training and extended school year services to children with autism. Together with Allison, she founded ASPIRE in 2005 to serve the increasing needs of individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders in the Austin area. Kristi served on the board of Autism Society of Central Texas for nearly a decade, was a founding board member and secretary of William's School and was a past member of the regional advisory task force to the Texas Council on Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders. She remains an active advocate for the autism community. Kristi is a mother of two and enjoys reading, cooking, and exploring the outdoors.
Kristi Swice
Co-Owner, Executive Director
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M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Raschel joined ASPIRE in 2015, bringing more than 20 years of experience in management and business administration. Prior to ASPIRE, she spent over 16 years with AT&T, where she supported administrative and human resources operations, including oversight of Disability, FMLA, and leave of absence programs and processes. At ASPIRE, Raschel plays a key leadership role in ensuring the organization’s operational efficiency and sustainability. She oversees billing and scheduling systems and processes, helping to maintain accuracy, consistency, and responsiveness. She also leads efforts to develop, refine, and implement policies and procedures, driving continuous improvement and supporting high-quality service delivery across the organization. In addition to her professional work, Raschel has a strong history of community involvement and fundraising, volunteering with organizations such as the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Livestrong Foundation, and the Autism Society. Raschel is a dedicated mother of two and enjoys running, attending live music events, and spending time with family and friends.
Raschel Harbison
Director of Operations
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Laura has been working in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) since 2005 and has been passionate about supporting individuals with autism and developmental disabilities throughout her career. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Hope College in 2007. She then spent two years working with the Peace Corps before entering graduate school at the University of Texas. Laura completed her Master of Education degree (2011) and Doctor of Philosophy degree (2015) in the Autism and Developmental Disabilities program within the department of Special Education. She began working at ASPIRE in 2005 as a behavior technician, and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in 2012. She currently serves as Clinical Director, where she oversees clinical programming, supports staff development, and ensures the delivery of high-quality, individualized services. In addition to her leadership role at ASPIRE, Laura is an Assistant Professor of Practice at the University of Texas at Austin, where she teaches future professionals in the field of special education and ABA. Outside of work, Laura enjoys hiking and exploring outdoors with her husband, son, and step-daughter.
Laura Estep
Clinical Director
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Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA
Laura is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities and their families. She earned both her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and her Master of Education, with an emphasis in Autism and Developmental Disabilities, from the University of Texas at Austin. As ASPIRE’s Quality Assurance & Compliance Director, Laura leads initiatives that promote high-quality, ethical, and compliant service delivery across the organization. Her work also includes guiding families and practitioners in navigating funding sources and advocating for access to appropriate care. Prior to joining ASPIRE, Laura served as Chief Operating Officer and President of ABA Services for a large ABA organization in the Houston area, where she oversaw clinical and operational systems at scale. She remains actively involved in ABA public policy efforts, contributing to initiatives that advance access, quality, and accountability in behavioral health services. Outside of her professional work, Laura enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter and cheering on the Texas Longhorns and the Houston Astros.
Laura Tolliver
Quality Assurance & Compliance Director
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M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Kristina received an Associate's Degree in Business Administration from Austin Community College in 2016. She has worked in the medical industry for 10 years, the majority of which was spent as a Medical Assistant. As a Medical Assistant she loved working with the patients and helping with their needs. Seeking to gain knowledge and experience in other areas of the industry, Kristina became an Administrative Assistant for a healthcare quality improvement organization. Bringing her love of working with people and administrative experience, Kristina joined the team here at ASPIRE in 2019 as an Administrative Assistant. In her spare time, she enjoys watching movies, reading, listening to music, trying new cuisine around the Austin area, and traveling. Kristina also loves to spend time with family, friends, her husband and step-son.
Kristina Brooks
Administrative Assistant
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A.B.A.
Eden graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelors in Biology. She has worked in healthcare for over 12 years, previously as a Chiropractic Technician and later as a CNA. Her experience also includes 6 years as a Health Unit Coordinator before moving from Wisconsin to Texas and joining ASPIRE in 2022. As our Scheduling and Medical Records Coordinator, Eden organizes scheduling for both staff and clients, while also supporting our clinical and administrative teams with records and documentation. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring Austin, traveling, and trying new foods. Eden also loves spending time with her husband, step-son and her cat, Lucy (named after her favorite show “I Love Lucy”).
Eden Young-Moxon
Scheduling & Medical Records Coordinator
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B.A., B.S.
Alysha holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Business from Trinity University and brings experience in behavioral health, research, and client support in diverse populations. Alysha joined the ASPIRE team in 2024, helping keep the administrative team organized and running smoothly. She monitors time and metrics reporting, co-publishes our RBT newsletter, and supports the team with a variety of additional administrative tasks. Alysha is passionate about helping individuals and organizations function at their highest potential, combining strong attention to detail with a people-centered approach. In her free time, she enjoys photography through her small business, exploring nature, and spending time with her pug, Squish. She plans to continue her education by pursuing a Master’s in Psychology.
Alysha Puente
Administrative Assistant Support
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B.S.
Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA & BCBA-D)
After earning her Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and Psychology from Rutgers University, Suzanne began her career in New York teaching life skills to adults with developmental disabilities. Over seven years in direct service work, she developed a strong commitment to supporting independence and meaningful outcomes, which led her to pursue advanced training in special education. She relocated to Texas after receiving a fellowship to attend the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned her Master of Education in Special Education with a concentration in Autism and Developmental Disabilities. She later became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and joined ASPIRE, where she focuses on helping children build skills that support long-term safety, independence, and quality of life. Suzanne is currently a doctoral candidate in Special Education at University of Texas at San Antonio, specializing in Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching. She also served as founder and program director of William’s School. Outside of work, Suzanne enjoys spending time with her husband, three daughters, and their dogs, as well as reading, playing board games, hiking, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Lake Austin with friends.
Suzanne Byrne
Behavioral Consultant
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M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Cayenne earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Education from the University of California, Santa Barbara, followed by a Master’s degree in Special Education—with concentrations in Autism and Developmental Disabilities—and a Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin. Since 2009, Cayenne has worked with individuals with disabilities across the lifespan. As a doctoral-level Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), she has provided services in home, school, clinic, and community settings to clients ages 2–30. In addition to her work with ASPIRE, she serves as an Assistant Professor at St. Edward’s University, where she is also the Program Director for the online ABA program. Her clinical and research interests focus on supporting children and their families by developing functional communication, reducing severe challenging behavior, increasing tolerance to delayed reinforcement, and promoting social and emotional development. She is also committed to advancing assent-based practices in behavior analysis and fostering meaningful collaboration among healthcare providers. Outside of her professional work, Cayenne enjoys spending time with family and friends, hiking, and playing sports.
Cayenne Shpall
Behavioral Consultant
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PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Lauren earned her Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Sociology from State University of New York at Geneseo and her Master’s degree in Special Education with a concentration in Autism from Texas State University. After obtaining her Board Certification in Behavior Analysis, Lauren joined ASPIRE in 2012, where she has provided services across school, home, and community settings. Her work is grounded in helping clients build functional communication, strengthen social and adaptive skills, and navigate challenges in ways that align with their long-term goals. Lauren’s passion for supporting individuals with special needs and their families is rooted in her early experience working with adolescents through high school and into college, where she developed a strong appreciation for the importance of transition planning and lifelong success. Outside of her professional work, Lauren enjoys spending time with her husband and three sons. She is an avid outdoor enthusiast who loves trail running, hiking, camping, traveling, and exploring new places.
Lauren Dooley
Behavioral Consultant
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M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Louise was born in Malaysia and spent her childhood living in several parts of Asia, shaping her appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, with a minor in Education, from the University of Wisconsin–Madison before moving to Texas to pursue her Master’s degree in Special Education at the University of Texas at Austin. During her undergraduate years, Louise worked with children and adolescents in a variety of educational settings, where she discovered her passion for supporting individuals with special needs and collaborating with their families. She joined ASPIRE as a Registered Behavior Technician and, through continued dedication to the field, went on to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Louise is currently a doctoral candidate in Special Education at the University of Texas at Austin, further deepening her expertise in autism and developmental disabilities. She is fluent in English and Mandarin and also speaks conversational Cantonese. Outside of her academic and professional work, Louise enjoys cooking, spending time outdoors, and exploring new places.
Louise Ng
Behavioral Consultant
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M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Emily graduated from Texas Christian University in 2019 and spent three years working as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), gaining hands-on experience supporting individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. She went on to earn her Master’s degree in Education with a focus in Applied Behavior Analysis from Texas State University. Emily is currently a doctoral candidate in Special Education at the University of Texas at Austin, where she continues to expand her expertise in research and clinical practice. Her professional interests include advancing cultural competency within ABA and promoting accessible, inclusive services across diverse communities. Outside of her academic and professional work, Emily has a passion for international travel and values opportunities to experience and learn from different cultures.
Emily Fowler
Behavioral Consultant
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M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Emily earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology, with a minor in Human Development and Family Sciences, from Montana State University. She began her career as a direct service provider at Family Outreach, where she spent three and a half years supporting children and families and developing a strong foundation in applied, family-centered care. Emily later moved to Texas to continue her education at the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned her Master of Education in Special Education with a focus on Autism and Developmental Disabilities. She went on to obtain her Board Certification in Behavior Analysis (BCBA) and now provides evidence-based services across a variety of settings, supporting individuals in building meaningful skills and improving quality of life. Outside of her professional work, Emily enjoys hiking, skiing, attending live music events, and exploring all that the Austin area has to offer.
Emily Blust
Behavioral Consultant
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M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Nikki brings over a decade of experience in educational settings, with her work increasingly focused on the field of behavior analysis as she advanced her training and expertise. She earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of Texas at Austin and later completed her Master of Education at the University of Texas at Arlington. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) committed to providing thoughtful, individualized, and culturally responsive care. Nikki is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Equity and Diversity in Special Education at the University of Texas at Austin, where her work centers on improving access, representation, and outcomes for diverse learners and their families. Outside of her professional and academic life, Nikki is a proud parent to a teenage son who is an all-star athlete, and she can often be found cheering him on at games and practices. When they’re not on the field or court, they enjoy spending time with friends or relaxing at home with their four dogs, chickens, and fish.
Ashley (Nikki) Hempe
Behavioral Consultant
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M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Jasmine earned her Master of Science in Juvenile Forensic Psychology, where she developed a strong foundation in behavioral assessment, mental health, and the intersection of psychology and the legal system. She later obtained her Board Certification in Behavior Analysis (BCBA), expanding her ability to deliver evidence-based interventions across a range of settings and populations. She is currently completing a second Master’s degree in School Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, with plans to graduate in May. Following this, she will continue her doctoral training in school psychology at another institution, further advancing her expertise in supporting students’ academic, behavioral, and social-emotional development within school systems. Jasmine’s professional interests include integrating behavior analysis and school psychology to provide comprehensive, collaborative care for children and adolescents. Outside of her academic and professional work, Jasmine enjoys reading, writing, painting, and exploring music as creative outlets.
Jasmine Battie
Behavioral Consultant
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M.S., BCBA, LBA
Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT)
Our BTs and RBTs are the foundation of our services, providing direct therapy and support in home, school, and community settings. Many have been with ASPIRE for over 15 years and share a passion for compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming, and assent-based care.
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Many are current or former Master’s students pursuing BCBA certification. They bring diverse backgrounds and experiences, unified by their dedication to the autistic community.
Why our techs chose this field:
“I have a personal stake in this field because my brother has Autism. I wanted to help others access appropriate care.”
– P.R.
“Volunteering in my son’s kindergarten classroom introduced me to ABA, and I immediately fell in love with this work.”
– M.M.
“I grew up in a country without services for autistic individuals. Working in this field allows me to make a real difference.”
– G.G.
“I started volunteering in high school and loved helping families achieve quality of life.”
– A.W.
“I wanted to bridge the cultural gap for immigrant families and support children with disabilities.”
– P.H.
Our BTs and RBTs are dedicated, compassionate, and central to every client’s growth, delivering care where it’s needed most while supporting families and communities.