
Amanda Bagby, MA, BCBA, LBA
Clinic Director – Merrionette Park
Job title & educational background:
I’m the Clinic Director and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (MA, BCBA, LBA) at Merrionette Park. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2021 and my Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis with a Certificate in Autism from Ball State University in 2023.
Location: Merrionette Park
Professional Experience:
I’ve been in the field for 5.5 years and have 3.5 years of RBT experience prior to becoming a BCBA. I’ll be celebrating my two-year anniversary this June! I started with a.c.e. this past March and look forward to continuing to grow with our Merrionette Park team.
What drives you to come to work every day?
What drives me to come to work every day as a BCBA is knowing that the work we do truly changes lives. Seeing a child communicate a new word, gain more independence, or a family feel more empowered—those moments mean everything. I’m motivated by the progress, both big and small, and the chance to collaborate with others who care deeply about helping people reach their potential. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of someone’s journey toward a better quality of life.
Why a.c.e. therapies?
I joined a.c.e. therapies because of the close professional relationship that our CEO, Cindy Mrotek, offers her team. She is actively involved in client care and works day in and day out to empower her team and improve client care—something not often seen at many therapeutic companies! Our Merrionette Park clinic is currently restructuring our program to enhance overall client group and social skills, generalization, and team consistency. We look forward to creating structured group times for clients to explore new topics and activities, offering more group outings, and building smaller teams to promote consistency in care.
Fun Fact About Me:
I love walking around Chicago and taking pictures of the city—especially its architecture, street art, and hidden gems. It’s my favorite way to unwind and stay curious, even outside of work.
Anything Else I’d Like to Share:
I’ve spent my fieldwork researching Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and tailoring it for use in ABA services. Much of my research helped me create a six-week program I now use with the children I work with. I love incorporating ACT tools because they help kids handle big feelings, focus on what matters to them, and build confidence in who they are. It’s not just about changing behavior—it’s about helping them grow into resilient, flexible thinkers who can face challenges with courage and kindness.

Donna Martinez, MA, BCBA, LBA
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Job title & educational background:
I’m a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and hold a Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Location: Merrionette Park
Professional Experience:
I’ve been in the field for five years. I worked as an RBT for three years and began treating as a BCBA two years ago, in September. I started with a.c.e. therapies in April 2025.
What drives you to come to work every day?
I enjoy seeing children learn new skills and watching their growth from the first day they start services to the day they graduate. When I’m working with a client, it doesn’t feel like “work”—we’re learning, playing, and having fun together.
Why a.c.e. therapies?
I love the client-to-staff ratio and the small-team approach, which allows me to really understand each client’s programs, skills, and growth areas. I’m excited to continue promoting generalization of skills and working alongside Behavior Technicians to help them expand their knowledge and skill sets.
Fun Fact About Me:
I’m both a boy mom and a dog mom! I love trying new restaurants in Chicago and traveling with my family.








