About
Hi, I'm Mary—founder of Piano Therapy Plus!
I created Piano Therapy Plus to support individuals and families navigating behavioral challenges and developmental differences through an approach that is both clinically grounded and intentionally joyful. Blending piano instruction with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) creates unique opportunities for learning, connection, success, and genuine enrichment.
My journey began back in 2005, when I first started using the piano as a tool within behavioral therapy. I quickly discovered that incorporating piano could create something different—a natural, motivating environment where essential real-life skills such as focus, frustration tolerance, communication, cooperation, flexibility, and persistence could be taught and practiced as situations naturally occurred.
Embedding piano instruction into ABA therapy allows learning and behavioral goals to be addressed within a meaningful activity the learner can engage with and enjoy. My ultimate goal is for these skills to extend far beyond the therapy room, supporting learning and independence at home, at school, at work, and in the community.
Along the way, learners also have opportunities to build confidence, strengthen self-esteem, and discover a creative outlet that can become a meaningful part of their lives. Piano can provide a common ground for connecting with parents, family members, peers, and others—and can become something learners genuinely enjoy and feel proud of.
My Professional Background
My passion for this unique approach led me to earn a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Advanced Applied Behavior Analysis from Nova Southeastern University.
I completed clinical training at both The Mailman Segal Center for Human Development (formerly the Mailman Segal Institute) and the University of Miami Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD), providing me with a strong foundation in early intervention, parent training, and autism-focused services.
I have been a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) since 2011 and have spent well over a decade working directly with individuals and families through my private practice.
A Collaborative, Parent-to-Parent Approach
As a parent myself, I understand firsthand how important it is for families to feel heard, supported, and actively involved in the process. My goal is to work collaboratively with you and your learner, celebrate progress, and develop practical strategies that can make everyday behavioral and learning challenges more manageable.
Thank you for visiting Piano Therapy Plus. I look forward to meeting you, hearing your story, and learning more about your family's goals.
Have Questions About Piano Therapy Plus?
Reach out to learn more about the program or discuss whether Piano Therapy Plus may be a good fit for your learner.
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