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MEET THE TEAM BEHIND YOUR CARE
Behind every session is a team — trained with care, supported with intention, and built to make a difference.
At xyzABA, our RBTs are in the chair, on the floor, and in the moment.
They’re the face of the work — showing up with consistency and connection every day.
But they’re never expected to carry that alone. Behind every strong RBT is a BCBA who’s poured into them,
stood beside them, and shaped the 'why' behind what we do.
Our BCBAs don’t just supervise — they mentor, collaborate, and lead with clarity and clinical integrity.
They stay close to the care, the client, and the people delivering it.
That clinical partnership is strengthened by an operations and leadership team
that brings the systems, resources, communication, and structure into alignment.
From daily clinic operations to financial health and long-term planning,
they connect the moving pieces and remove barriers,
so our clinical teams can remain focused on providing exceptional care.
Support extends through every layer of our work, providing meaningful guidance
and access to tools — because when our team is equipped, our clients thrive.
Meet the leaders behind the vision — upholding the standard that sets our care apart:
Founder & Practice Owner
Zahra Aly, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Zahra’s work in Applied Behavior Analysis began more than a decade ago, when she became an assistant teacher at a private school for children with autism. At the time, she was completing her undergraduate studies at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she earned her degree in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Media Studies. That early experience introduced her to work that would ultimately shape the course of her career.
After moving to Dallas, Zahra became a Registered Behavior Technician and continued growing within the field, taking on leadership and training roles with multiple ABA providers while earning her master’s degree in Special Education with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis from Texas Tech University. Becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst was never just a career goal — it was her path to doing this work with the level of care, thoughtfulness, and leadership she believed it deserved.
After years of supporting families, mentoring RBTs, and developing clinicians across the DFW metroplex, Zahra founded xyzABA with a clear intention: to prioritize meaningful, individualized care, invest in future clinicians, and build a place where families and staff feel supported, heard, and empowered.
As Founder and Practice Owner, Zahra remains closely connected to the clinical work and the team she leads. Having seen how difficult ABA services can be for families to navigate, she is committed to breaking down barriers through education, connection, and high-quality care. She works to create an environment where clinicians can grow and decisions remain centered on the needs of each client. Her work is driven by a deep belief that change is possible — not just for the child, but for the entire system surrounding them.
Executive Director of Clinical Operations
Mary-Casey 'MC' McGee, LMSW, BCBA, LBA
MC is a Licensed Master Social Worker and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with more than 17 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and families across behavioral health and developmental services. Her background spans direct clinical care, ABA, organizational leadership, insurance and payer relations, clinical quality, and operations.
MC earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Texas Christian University and her master’s degree in Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington before completing postgraduate training in Behavior Analysis through Florida Institute of Technology. Her leadership and consulting experience includes roles as a Clinical Director, Insurance Liaison, and Organizational Management Consultant.
At xyzABA, MC oversees clinical operations with a focus on ensuring that strong systems support strong clinical care. She works closely with clinical and operational teams to strengthen processes, develop staff, navigate complex payer and service-delivery requirements, and maintain high standards for quality and accountability. She brings a rare combination of deep clinical expertise and human-centered care to her work — balancing evidence-based practice with empathy, perspective, and heart.
MC approaches leadership with the belief that good clinical care and good operations should never compete with one another. Her focus is on building systems that make it easier for clinicians to do meaningful work while ensuring that the individual needs of clients and families remain central to decision-making. She brings clarity to complexity, advocates fiercely for neurodivergent individuals, and never loses sight of the human experience behind every treatment plan. MC leads with humility, intention, and a true commitment to doing what works — and doing it well.
Executive Director of Finance & Revenue Cycle
Hussain Jinnah, M.S
As Executive Director of Finance and Revenue Cycle, Hussain oversees the financial health and infrastructure that keep xyzABA moving. Before joining xyzABA, he studied neuroscience at Vanderbilt University, where he earned his master’s degree in pharmacology. The curiosity and persistence that shaped his academic path continue to influence how he approaches his work.
Hussain’s role at xyzABA has grown over time as he has taken responsibility for increasingly central areas of the organization. What began as day-to-day operational support gradually expanded to include many of the organization’s most essential financial and administrative functions. Today, his work spans billing, collections, appeals, accounts receivable, payer performance, payroll and benefits, financial reporting and budgeting, credentialing administration, purchasing, and facilities.
Working closely with clinical and operational leadership, Hussain helps the organization respond thoughtfully to its evolving needs. He is always looking for ways to make processes more efficient, address gaps, and create solutions that will continue to serve xyzABA as it grows.
Resourceful by nature, Hussain takes the time to understand unfamiliar problems and keeps working until he finds a practical way forward. He values learning, especially when he can put new knowledge to use. Hussain is most fulfilled by work that is useful, meaningful, and capable of making a lasting difference. That sense of purpose continues to guide his contributions to xyzABA and his investment in what the organization is building for its team, clients, and families.
Outside of work, Hussain enjoys spending time with his dachshunds and watching sports.
Our Operations Team
Caitlin Cacaras, COM
Clinical Operations Manager
DeMarcus Daniels, COA
Clinic Operations Administrator
Anita Bacon, CEA
Clinic Experience Administrator
Dani Rojas, CSA
Clinic Scheduling Administrator
Caitlin serves as a key pillar behind the day-to-day flow of services. She acts as the primary liaison between families and the clinical team, ensuring communication remains clear, timely, and supportive at every stage. In her role, Caitlin oversees scheduling, coordination of services, and operational logistics — working closely with BCBAs, RBTs, and families to problem-solve barriers, maintain consistency, and keep care moving forward smoothly. She brings structure to complexity and is often the go-to person when something needs to be resolved quickly but thoughtfully.
With a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and additional coursework in family and marriage counseling, Caitlin discovered her passion for the field of ABA through her desire to support families navigating complex systems. Having a brother with Autism has deeply shaped her understanding of the challenges families face and the importance of compassionate, responsive support. What sets Caitlin apart is her ability to balance efficiency with empathy. She understands that behind every schedule adjustment or operational decision is a real family, a real clinician, and a real need. She approaches her work with patience, accountability, and intention.
Outside of work, Caitlin enjoys spending time with her dog, collaborating with her team to make the clinic feel like a second home, and unwinding with a good book.
DeMarcus Daniels is a dedicated Clinical Operations Administrator whose work is grounded in communication, accountability, creativity, authenticity, and integrity. With experience spanning healthcare, behavioral services, clinical operations, team coordination, and Applied Behavior Analysis, he collaborates with clinical and administrative teams to keep the clinic organized, welcoming, and responsive to the people it serves.
One of the most meaningful parts of DeMarcus’s role is maintaining a genuine connection with clients. By remaining involved in their day-to-day experience, he gains a better understanding of their needs, goals, preferences, and strengths. This connection helps him ensure that clinic operations remain centered on providing thoughtful, quality care.
DeMarcus brings experience in staff support, scheduling, training, team communication, and daily clinic management. He takes pride in strengthening the systems and relationships that help a clinic operate successfully, with the goal of creating an environment where clients can thrive, staff can grow, and families can feel confident in the care their loved ones receive.
Anita serves as xyzABA’s Clinic Experience Administrator and is a welcoming first point of contact for families, visitors, providers, and staff. With a background in customer service, healthcare coordination, reception, and administrative support, she brings valuable experience in helping people feel acknowledged, informed, and cared for.
In her role, Anita supports the daily clinic experience by greeting guests, answering questions, coordinating clinic tours, and connecting visitors with the appropriate team members. She also helps maintain an organized and inviting reception area so that everyone who enters the clinic feels comfortable and knows where to turn for assistance. By remaining attentive to the needs of those around her, Anita helps ensure that visitors feel welcomed and supported from the moment they arrive.
Anita understands that a positive clinic experience begins at the front door. She values building friendly, professional relationships with families and creating an atmosphere where people feel comfortable asking questions or seeking assistance. Through her work, Anita helps provide the organization, hospitality, and day-to-day support that allow the clinical team to remain focused on delivering quality care.
Dani serves as xyzABA’s Clinical Scheduling Administrator, helping coordinate the moving pieces that keep services consistent and accessible for families. With experience in both direct clinical care and operations, she understands what clients, families, and clinical teams need in session and behind the scenes. In her role, she works closely with BCBAs, RBTs, and families to support scheduling, service coordination, and daily operational needs.
Dani holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and has worked in ABA since 2021. She began her career as a Registered Behavior Technician, supporting clients and families directly, before transitioning into operations in 2023. Since then, her experience has expanded to include scheduling, people management, insurance, and the systems that help make consistent care possible.
Dani values being able to witness meaningful growth while helping families feel supported, heard, and advocated for. Her background in direct care and operations has shown her how much each part of the process matters, and she finds it especially meaningful to know that the work happening behind the scenes can make a genuine difference in a family’s everyday life.
Outside of work, Dani enjoys spending time with her three cats, doing puzzles and crafts, going on walks, and trying new coffee shops.
Our Clinical Team
Clinical Operations / Behavior Analyst in Training
Haylie Valdez, M.S., RBT
Haylie Valdez serves in clinical operations as a Behavior Analyst in Training and RBT Manager. Her career in ABA began in 2020, and she joined xyzABA as an RBT in January 2024 while completing her graduate program and supervised fieldwork hours. Since joining xyzABA, Haylie has earned her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Capella University, with a focus in Organizational Behavior Management. She has grown into her current leadership role and is now preparing to sit for the BCBA exam.
In her role, Haylie supports both client progress and the professional development of the RBTs providing day-to-day care. She is passionate about helping RBTs understand the “why” behind ABA, strengthen their clinical skills, and recognize how the quality of their work directly contributes to client outcomes.
Haylie’s background in Organizational Behavior Management also shapes her approach to improving the systems that support employees and clients. She strives to help the organization operate effectively while ensuring that the processes behind treatment allow teams to provide consistent care and help clients build skills that support greater independence.
Outside of work, Haylie enjoys coaching softball and spending time with her family and friends.
Clinical Supervisor / BCBA
Astara Blain, M.S., BCBA, LBA
Astara has been practicing in the field of ABA since 2017 and brings a grounded, hands-on approach to her work as a BCBA -- shaped by years of direct experience, team leadership, and wholehearted commitment to her clients.
Astara is known for her relentless dedication to both her clients and her team. Whether she’s modeling strategies in-session, coaching RBTs through tough moments, or collaborating with families and schools to create consistent, effective support -- she shows up fully.
She has extensive experience supporting individuals ages 2–15 across home, clinic, and community settings, with a focus on positive, assent-based approaches to challenging behaviors including aggression, self-injury, elopement, and more. As a passionate trainer, Astara brings calm presence and structure to the teams she leads -- always reinforcing that excellence comes from showing up, learning together, and staying in it.
A proud Texan, she enjoys being outdoors and soaking up the sunshine when she’s not pouring into her clients and team.
Clinical Supervisor / BCBA
Kelly Walker, M.S., IBA, BCBA, LBA
Kelly Walker is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with deep expertise in behavior systems design, functional treatment, and clinical problem-solving. Known for her calm precision and systems-level thinking, Kelly approaches every case with curiosity, clarity, and a commitment to doing what actually works — not just what’s expected.
Her work is grounded in data, but guided by empathy. She specializes in the treatment of severe maladaptive behavior and uses behavior analysis not just to reduce barriers, but to create meaningful, sustainable change for clients and their families. Kelly’s ability to break down complex problems, question assumptions, and think critically about every layer of care makes her an invaluable part of the xyzABA team.
As a mentor and leader, Kelly brings a collaborative energy that helps others grow while staying grounded. She’s passionate about building a culture of honesty, reflection, and continual improvement — both in clinical work and across the systems that support it.
Outside of her work, Kelly enjoys gardening and spending time with her two children.
Clinical Supervisor / BCBA
Jasmine Sanchez, M.A., BCBA, LBA
Jasmine began her journey with xyzABA in May 2022 as a Behavior Technician and has grown alongside the organization ever since. Through dedication, curiosity, and a strong commitment to clinical excellence, she advanced into the RBT role before enrolling in a Master’s program at Arizona State University and joining xyzABA’s BCBA Supervision Program.
During her graduate training, Jasmine was promoted to Behavior Analyst in Training (BAT), working closely with senior clinicians to strengthen her skills in assessment, programming, and clinical decision-making. Her development during this time reflected not only strong technical competence, but also thoughtful clinical judgment, humility, and a genuine investment in both her clients and team.
After successfully passing her BCBA exam, Jasmine now serves as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst — bringing with her a deep understanding of xyzABA’s values, culture, and standards of care. Her work is grounded in compassion, consistency, and the intentional application of evidence-based practices.
Jasmine is especially passionate about teaching functional communication, building adaptive skills, and supporting individuals across a wide range of ages and developmental levels. Outside of work, she enjoys learning new crafts, reading, and spending time with her pets, friends, and family.
Clinical Supervisor / BCBA
Sara Smith Johnson, M.S., BCBA, LBA
As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Sara grounds her work in compassion and the belief that meaningful progress begins with understanding each client. Sara’s academic background spans Library and Information Science and Applied Behavior Analysis, with master’s degrees from Texas Woman’s University and the University of North Texas, respectively.
She began working in ABA in April 2023 and joined the XYZ team as an RBT in June 2025. After completing her ABA degree that December, Sara advanced into the role of Behavior Analyst in Training, building on her direct-care foundation as she developed her skills in assessment, program development, and clinical decision-making. After recently passing her certification exam, Sara continues her growth at XYZ in her new role as a BCBA.
Sara is especially passionate about helping clients strengthen communication and toileting skills and establish sleep routines—areas that can meaningfully improve their independence and quality of life. She focuses on creating practical, individualized support that helps each client navigate everyday life with greater confidence.
Outside of work, Sara enjoys scuba diving, writing, and all things musicals and theatre.
Clinical Supervisor / BCBA
Kate Solorzano, M.A., BCBA, LBA
Kate is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst whose approach is rooted in building genuine relationships and making therapy engaging, meaningful, and fun. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Sciences and a Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis. Kate began working in ABA as a Registered Behavior Technician in August 2022 and, after nearly a year of supporting clients and families directly, knew she wanted to continue growing in the field. She began pursuing BCBA certification in June 2023 and became certified in September 2025.
Kate believes that trust and connection are essential to creating a positive learning environment. When clients feel comfortable, understood, and excited to participate, everyday moments can become valuable opportunities for learning and growth. She is especially passionate about helping clients strengthen functional communication, develop adaptive skills, and gain greater independence while ensuring therapy remains enjoyable and meaningful to them.
Partnering with families is another important part of Kate’s work. She strives to help families feel confident supporting their child outside of therapy by meeting them where they are and identifying strategies that fit naturally into everyday life. Kate believes in celebrating each success along the way and helping clients build practical skills that make daily life a little easier.
Outside of work, Kate enjoys adding new tiny treasures to her collection of miniature items and relaxing with her cats.
Clinical Supervisor / BCBA
Annalynn Barkhimer, BCBA
Annalynn brings clinical, academic, and research experience to her role as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She earned her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and is pursuing her PhD in Behavior Analysis at Western New England University. Alongside her doctoral studies, Annalynn has taught undergraduate psychology and conducted research focused on helping autistic children identify and communicate emotions and other private experiences.
Annalynn began working in ABA as a Registered Behavior Technician in 2021 and later advanced into the role of Behavior Analyst in Training before becoming a BCBA in 2024.
In her work with clients and families, Annalynn values collaboration and individualized care. She works closely with each family to identify and prioritize goals that matter to both the child and the people supporting them. She is especially passionate about recognizing and celebrating the small gains that can be easy to overlook in the moment. She understands that what seems minor today may become the foundation for a life-changing skill over time. Helping clients build on those moments toward continued learning, greater independence, and more opportunities to thrive is one of the most meaningful parts of her work.
Outside of work, Annalynn enjoys distance running, spending time with her family and animals, hiking, rock climbing, and relaxing by the lake.