MICHELLE WALKER, M.S., RBT
Therapist
Michelle has been with Happy Kids for 6 years. She believes being an RBT is a blessing, an incredibly rewarding experience and a way God uses her to make a difference in the lives of others. When she is not at work Michelle likes to relax, have fun and simply enjoy life. The best part about her job is helping people learn new skills, seeing the progress made when a person is supported in achieving their goals and building relationships which have a lasting impact.
Favorite Food: Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Fun Fact:Michelle sings and writes music
Ashley Pechal, RBT
Therapist
Ashley started working at Happy Kids in 2012. The best part about her job is watching all of her clients succeed and make progress. Ashley loves being able to work with her twin sister. When she is not at work Ashley is spending time with her two year old son, fiance and other family members.
Favorite Food: Chips and queso
Fun Fact: Ashley can't touch her toes. PATRICK STEWART, JR., M. ED., RBT
Therapist
Pat began his journey with Happy Kids in 2010 when he was first introduced to behavior analysis. Pat is from Houston, Tx and has always had a heart for children, whether it be through coaching, counseling or teaching Sunday school. Pat graduated from the University of Mary-Hardin Baylor with a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in 2012.Pat’s love for children with autism continues to grow and he considers himself lucky to be able to aid in impacting the lives of the children he works with and their families. Working with a diverse range of people and seeing improvement is Pat's favorite part of his position. When not in clinic Pat enjoys spending time with his wife, two children and one dog. Pat is an avid disc golfer, loves the outdoors and is an active member of his church.
Favorite Food: Tacos (and it doesn't even have to be a Tuesday)
Fun Fact: Pat played college basketball
victoria hartwell, RBT
Therapist
Victoria re-joined the Happy Kids team in the Summer of 2023. Victoria started her career in Special Education working in the public school system and made the decision to move into the private sector in 2010 when she started providing ABA services. Victoria grew up in West Virginia and is the youngest of five children. She loves watching her clients grow, succeed and work with families to meet common goals. In her spare time you can find Victoria riding her motorcycle, painting and spending time with her three daughters and three grandchildren. Victoria will be an integrate part of our Stepping Stones program starting in September of 2023.
Favorite Food: Veggies from the garden
Fun Fact: In high-school Victoria raced crew
JOCELYN MUNIZ
Therapist
Jocelyn joined the Happy Kids team in the Summer of 2023. Jocelyn is originally from South Dakota but has lived in Kentucky, Arizona and now Texas. She has a background in the public school system working in Special Education classrooms. Jocelyn loves working with children and watching them progress towards all goals, big or small. When she is not in clinic she loves to read, is somewhat of a WWII buff, enjoys hiking, cooking and catching up with her favorite TV series and movies. Jocelyn is married, has five children and two bulldogs. Jocelyn is excited to be part of our Stepping Stones program geared towards children ages 4-6.
Favorite Food: Sushi, Baked Lays, chocolate and anything sweet.
Fun Fact: Jocelyn marched in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade with her high-school marching band.
PHILLIP 'pHIL' SPARKS, M.A., RBT
Therapist
Phil started his career with Happy Kids in 2019. One of the things Phil enjoys most about his job is seeing his clients make progress and succeed. Phil works with a wide-variety of learners and their families. When not in clinic you can find Phil outdoors playing disc golf, kayaking around the lake or hiking.
Favorite Food: Italian
Fun Fact: Phil took Japanese as a second language in college
RENATE HIGGINS, RBT
Therapist
Renate is the newest member of the team and joined Happy Kids in the Summer of 2022. After 38 years in the veterinary field, Renate decided to make a change and begin a new career in the ABA field. Renate loves to help her clients grow and acquire new skills. When she is not working Renate volunteers with the Go Team, loves to horseback ride, race her Corgis and work on craft activities. Renate also enjoys spending time with her three sons as much as possible.
Favorite Food: Steak and pizza
Fun Fact: Renate loves old model cars
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