Director, ASDance for Autism
Originally from Armenia, I moved to the US in 2001 where I pursued my career as a professional Ballroom Dancer while continuing education at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), acquiring my BA in Psychology and later earning a Master's Degree. After receiving my MA, I worked in the ABA field first as a behavior interventionist and later as an Adaptive Skills Supervisor for over seven years at Foothill Child Development Services.
Currently I work with children and teens with Autism and other developmental disabilities (anxiety, dyspraxia, verbal and visual impairments, intellectual...) as well as their families through Ballroom Dancing, which in my opinion is the perfect balance between therapy, physical and psychological activity, leisure and socialization.
Recipient of the Community Service Award in 2016 by NDCA (National Dance Council of America), for contribution to the community (for her work with children with Autism) as an ambassador of dance.
Currently one of the Advisory Board Members for DanceSport Education (a not for profit organization based in AZ) supporting their mission in reaching out to All children, especially those with Special needs to experience the long term benefits of Ballroom dancing.
Achievements - World and Blackpool (British Open) Professional Smooth Finalist, US National Professional RS Smooth Silver Medalist, US National RS Ballroom Finalist
Certified dance teacher through USTA (United States Terpsichore Association) - Fellow in Ballroom, Member in Latin, Smooth and Rhythm.
US National Adjudicator License