About Peace of Mind ABA
Meet the Team Behind the Mission
Compassionate clinical leadership, family partnership, and evidence-based care are at the heart of everything we do.
Founder & Clinical Director
Melina Thomas, M.A., LBA, BCBA
Peace of Mind ABA was founded by Melina Thomas, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst whose connection to the field began more than 30 years ago. After raising four children, Melina returned to clinical work and progressed from direct-care roles to becoming a BCBA, bringing both professional expertise and a parent’s perspective to the families she serves.
Melina is especially passionate about communication, caregiver education, and helping children build greater independence in everyday life. As Clinical Director, she also mentors developing clinicians and is committed to creating a practice where families feel heard, supported, and actively involved in their child’s progress.
01
30+ Years Ago
Supported Employment
Began her career helping individuals with disabilities develop job skills and independence in their communities.
02
Returned to Workforce
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)
After raising four children, she returned to direct work with children and developed a deep passion for communication and life skills.
03
Advanced Credential
QASP-S Certification
Earned the Qualified Autism Services Practitioner–Supervisor credential while continuing to gain hands-on clinical experience.
04
September 2023
BCBA Certification
Earned Board Certified Behavior Analyst certification through the University of West Florida, marking the culmination of years of dedication.
Family Services
Ashley Kennedy
Director of Operations & Family Services
Ashley is an experienced paralegal and business manager with many years of experience supporting clients through complex legal and business matters. Clients describe her as friendly, responsive, and supportive, with a talent for making complicated matters easy to understand.
At Peace of Mind, Ashley supports families from their first interaction with our team. She helps with scheduling, communication, administrative needs, and navigating the process of beginning services. Her warmth, attention to detail, and willingness to help keep communication clear and families supported every step of the way.
Our Clinical Team
The People Behind Your Child’s Progress
Our team combines deep clinical expertise with genuine care for every child and family we serve.
Dana Nedelcu, M.A., BCBA
Board Certified Behavior Analyst · Psychotherapist · UKSBA Member
Dana is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and trained psychotherapist with a background in behavioral science and cognitive behavioral therapy. She uses individualized, evidence-based approaches to support communication, independence, emotional regulation, and meaningful behavior change.
Credentials & Memberships
- BCBA — Board Certified Behavior Analyst
- Master’s Degree in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Psychotherapist
- UK Society for Behaviour Analysis (UKSBA)
- UK Professional Standards Authority (PSA)
Nicolette Navarro, M.A., LBA, BCBA
Board Certified Behavior Analyst · Director of Parent Training & Family Support
Nicolette is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with nearly 20 years of experience supporting children and families across clinic, school, and home-based settings. She is especially passionate about communication, language development, parent education, and caregiver training.
Credentials & Education
- BCBA — Board Certified Behavior Analyst
- Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis
- LBA — Licensed Behavior Analyst
- Master’s Preparatory Program in Communicative Disorders
Why Choose Us
Why Families Trust Peace of Mind ABA
Choosing the right provider is an important decision. Here is what sets our approach apart.
Individualized to Your Child
Services focus on meaningful goals that promote communication, independence, social skills, and daily living abilities.
True Family Partnership
Parents and caregivers are taught the same strategies our therapists use so progress can continue beyond sessions.
Evidence-Based & Ethical
We practice Applied Behavior Analysis responsibly, ethically, and in alignment with professional standards.
Home-Based Convenience
Home-based services support learning in a natural environment and help skills generalize into everyday life.
Clear Communication
Regular updates, parent training, and transparent progress reporting keep families informed and involved.
Long-Term Progress
Our goal is to build skills while giving families the confidence, knowledge, and peace of mind to keep moving forward.
Ready to Begin?
Let’s Talk About Your Child
We’re here to answer your questions and guide you through every step. There’s no obligation — just a warm, honest conversation about how we can help.