Meet Jenni Abdullah, M.Ed., BCBA
Hi there, I'm Jenni Abdullah, the proud founder of Cielo Behavior! As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with over a decade of experience working in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis, I've been fortunate enough to witness the incredible impact that this wonderful science can have on individuals' lives.
I’ve worked with a vast multitude of clients from toddler to adult. I’ve worn many hats in my career and have seen the field from many different angles. I’ve worked at ABA companies both large and small, overseen clinics across Texas, and have seen countless families through the entire therapy process – from diagnosis to discharge.
However, one problem I often couldn’t solve was the limited access to care for certain families: those without an autism diagnosis, individuals deemed “too old” for ABA by their provider or insurance, or even those on a months-long waitlist just to get an evaluation.
This is exactly why I founded Cielo Behavior. The tools of ABA are simply too valuable not to share with the greater community.
My educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of California, Santa Barbara and a Master's in Education from Arizona State University. I will always consider myself a student of behavior analysis, striving constantly to learn and grow as our field evolves.
When I'm not working, you can usually find me spending quality time with my daughter, husband, and two dogs. I am a singer, aspiring guitar player, and avid explorer of Austin’s restaurant scene. I can’t wait to meet you!
Meet Our BCBAs
Melody McDurham, M.Ed. BCBA
Hi there, I'm Melody McDurham. I studied applied behavior analysis in the special education department at Texas State University and I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). I have a commitment to individualized support that fosters independence, interconnectedness, and self-advocacy in neurodivergent individuals through collaboration among our team and clients' families. For me it is important to use compassionate care best practices to create learning opportunities through meaningful engagement in social activities, play, and daily routines. My dedication to this field is rooted in a desire to see neurodiverse folks thrive and witness the joy of progress toward happier lives for clients and their families. In my spare time I'm at home with my little dog and growing tortoise, reading in a new coffeeshop, going to the movies with my husband, or playing board games with friends.
Thalia Rios Wood, M.Ed. BCBA
Hi! I’m a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with over six years of experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). I have worked with children and adolescents ages 2 to 18 across a variety of settings, including schools, homes, community programs, and clinical centers.
I am passionate about creating meaningful progress through individualized, evidence-based interventions. I place a strong emphasis on parent collaboration, believing that active family involvement is essential for long-term success and lasting behavior change.
I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Florida International University and my Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of Dayton.
With a compassionate approach and a commitment to empowering families, I strive to help every client reach their fullest potential in all areas of life.
When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two little ones, going on walks, and watching movies together.
