Our Virginia Team
Laura Trest M.Ed, BCBA, LBA
Executive Director
Laura brings a wealth of experience in working with children, adolescents, and teenagers diagnosed with a wide range of disabilities, accumulating over 16 years in the field since 2007. Her extensive expertise spans the delivery of specialized interventions in various settings, including homes, schools, and communities.
​
Laura's academic qualifications are truly impressive, as she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree, a Master's of Special Education degree, and a graduate-level certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis, all attained from George Mason University. In February of 2015, she achieved certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, a testament to her exceptional skills and dedication.
​
As a professional, Laura has developed a particular interest in Verbal Behavior, language acquisition, and social skills training. Her unwavering commitment to advancing these domains showcases her deep-rooted passion for driving meaningful outcomes and fostering the comprehensive development of the individuals under her care. Laura's dedication and expertise make her an invaluable asset in the field, as she consistently strives to make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those she serves.
Melissa Jeziorski, R.B.T.
Lead RBT
TBP King George, VA
Melissa Jeziorski, a resident of King George, Virginia, is a proud mother of three wonderful children and has enjoyed a loving 25-year marriage. In 2015, she earned her Associate’s degree in Liberal Arts-Social and Behavioral Sciences from West Hills College in California, a pivotal moment that shaped her career trajectory. Following this achievement, she became a Certified Registered Behavior Technician in 2016, embarking on a decade-long journey of working with individuals of varying ages and abilities.
​
Melissa's experiences have taken her to diverse settings, including homes, schools, clinics, and the community, where she has had the privilege of making a positive impact on the lives of her clients and their families. Witnessing the emergence of new skills, the accomplishment of goals, and contributing to the growth and development of her clients fills her with immense joy. Her commitment to being a positive role model of acceptance, effective treatment, and meaningful interaction extends not only to her clients but also to their families and the wider community. With a firm belief in the transformative power of ABA therapy, Melissa is excited to be a part of The Behavior Place team, where she can continue to make a difference in the lives of those she serves.
Chelsey Blizzard, R.B.T.
TBP King George, VA​
Chelsey is a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) who is in the process of becoming a Qualified Autism Service Practitioner (QASP-S) as well as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). She received her undergraduate degree from VCU in Psychology in 2022 and plans to graduate with her Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis in the spring of 2025. Chelsey’s healthcare experience began in 2020, where she worked on a neuroscience unit, and she is currently employed part-time in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). It was in the PICU that she discovered her passion for helping individuals with developmental and physical disabilities, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). After researching the field, she found Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to be the perfect fit.
Although she has been in the field for less than two years, Chelsey has developed a deep love for helping clients achieve their skill acquisition and behavior goals. She takes pride in her patience and compassion, qualities she believes, combined with her knowledge of ABA, make her a more effective technician.
Chelsey spends most of her time working and studying, but in her free time, she enjoys caring for her pets, which include cats, rats, and mice.
Kari McLaughlin, R.B.T.
TBP King George, VA
Kari McLaughlin is a dedicated and passionate Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) who entered the field in 2022 and has since embraced every moment of her journey. Known for her kindness and patience, Kari is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of others, which has significantly influenced her approach to working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and abilities.
​
As a Certified RBT, Kari has acquired the essential qualifications to effectively support and assist individuals with special needs. Her role as a paraprofessional within the special education department of the public school system has provided her with invaluable hands-on experience and a profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by students with special needs.
​
Kari has worked with individuals across various age groups, ranging from young children to teenagers, and has adapted her strategies to cater to a wide range of skill levels. This exposure has equipped her with the ability to tailor her approaches to meet the specific needs and abilities of each individual.
​
.jpg)
Andi Hostetler, R.B.T.
TBP King George, VA
​
​
Andi is a dedicated Registered Behavior Technician at The Behavior Place, with over a year of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), focusing on supporting children with autism. Her journey in working with individuals on the autism spectrum began in high school, where she served as a Teacher's Assistant. This early experience, combined with a subsequent role as a Health Specialist at Damar Services, ignited her passion for the field of ABA and solidified her commitment to helping children develop essential life skills.
​
In her current role, Andi specializes in implementing individualized ABA programs designed by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Her work involves enhancing social skills, teaching task completion strategies, and fostering effective communication in children on the spectrum. She is particularly focused on helping children self-regulate their emotions through structured interventions. Working one-on-one with children and witnessing their progress is deeply fulfilling for Andi, as ABA is not just a profession but a true passion.
Sam Bernsteel, B.T.
TBP King George, VA
​
Bio Coming Soon
.jpg)
Chrissy Trest, M.S.Ed.
Administrative Assistant
TBP King George, VA
Chrissy is an accomplished educator with over 15 years of experience in the field. She earned her Bachelor's in Elementary Education with a focus on Mathematics from the University of Maryland in 2007 and later obtained a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction from McDaniel College in 2012. Chrissy's expertise in inclusive instruction was recognized when she was interviewed by the Maryland State Department of Education. She also holds an Administrator I Certificate and Gifted Specialist Certificate.
​
An active participant in professional development, Chrissy has presented at the NAGC Annual Convention and the MEGS Conference, where she also served as co-chair. Her contributions have earned her the Exemplary Employee Award from Charles County Public Schools and recognition as an Outstanding Educator in Gifted and Talented Education by the Maryland State Department of Education.
​
Chrissy is deeply committed to advocating for twice-exceptional (2E) students, who are both gifted and have special needs, which remains at the heart of her professional passion.
​
Bryson Mellon Valenzuela
Administrative Assistant
TBP King George, VA
Bryson is an exceptional college student who demonstrates unwavering dedication and a strong sense of responsibility in his role as an administrative assistant. His exemplary work ethic and reliability have made him an invaluable member of our team.
​
With a clear vision for his future, Bryson aspires to pursue a career in the medical field after completing his college education. His ambition, coupled with his diligence and commitment to learning, positions him well for success in his chosen path.
​
We are privileged to have Bryson as part of our team, and his contributions continue to inspire and motivate us. With his remarkable work ethic and his aspiration to make a difference in the medical field, we have no doubt that Bryson will achieve great things in his future endeavors.
