Melanie Freeman
Clinical Director
Beacon Autistic Spectrum Independence Center
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
First I worked with children in an after school program.
Then I obtained a BS in Child Development.
Followed by a MA in Child Development.
Then I got a job working for an ABA agency.
I got promoted to Director within three years.
After promotion I enrolled in a post graduate certification in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Then I continued to manage the agency and educate more families and employees.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Bachelor
California State University-Fullerton
California State University-Fullerton
Graduate
California State University-Fullerton
California State University-Fullerton
Career
Clinical Director
I oversee behavioral therapy programs for children with developmental disabilites.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Education
Non-Profit Organizations
Helping People
Day to Day
I get into work around 9am. I respond to emails and phone calls. I then attend meetings with upper management. I meet with a team of therapists. I review reports, and then I conduct behavioral assessments or meet with clients.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for college students
Gain experience in the field while in college. I constantly look for employees who have both the education and relevant work experience. Don't just pick one over the other, try to do both!
Recommended Education
My career is not related to what I studied. I'd recommend this path instead:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Family:
"I honestly never encountered any noise. I was always told I should never ever give up and strive to be the best I can be. I was always encouraged to pursue an education and to stop at nothing to be successful."
