Sydnee Golas, RBT

Therapist

Sydnee moved to Texas in 2018 with her husband and three kids. She was a stay at home mom for 10 years before becoming an RBT in 2021.
Her favorite part of the job is being able to make a positive impact on the kids lives and being able to celebrate all, big and small, successes. Sydnee is currently in school pursuing a Bachelors of Science degree in Psychology in ABA. In her spare time she likes to bake, craft and spend time with her kids outdoors.

Favorite Food: Tacos or salad

Fun Fact: Sydnee once interned as a corporate chef



  

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



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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



  

Rebekah Hoops, RBT

Therapist

Rebekah joined the Happy Kids team in the fall of 2024. Rebekah loves working with children and watching them progress towards all goals, big or small.  When she is not in clinic she loves to volunteer, spend time with friends and family, baking, and playing sports. Rebekah is super excited to be working at Happy Kids and is super thankful to be apart of this wonderful work family.

Favorite Food: Pizza with ranch

Fun Fact: Rebekah can't roll her R's



  

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



  

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.
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​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 child​ren 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