Engage Kidz

Patty Maxwell - Founder - M.Ed., M.S., BSL

Patty's commitment to becoming a Licensed Behavioral Specialist and Parenting Coach stemmed from her own journey coping with her daughter's learning and behavioral challenges. She found it extremely difficult and frustrating to find support & services that really helped families go from struggling to thriving while still making time for the rest of her family and herself.

Patty received her 1st master’s degree in Special Education from The University of Pittsburgh and 2nd master’s in Infant Mental Health from Chatham University. Patty is a Licensed Behavior Specialist and has been a developmental and behavioral consultant for Early Intervention Services for 14 years prior to starting Engage Kidz. She has also worked in many positions in the mental health field including Behavioral Therapist, Intensive Case Management and Family Based Therapist.

Patty’s various educational background and experiences have allowed her to work with a wide range of ages (birth through adulthood) and supporting an array of learning abilities including individuals with autism, learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, intellectual disabilities and emotional disorders.

Her passion is to support children and their families so that they can find peace and happiness.

Jodi Dugan-Director - M.Ed., BCBA, BSL

Jodi is a former Special Education Supervisor and certified Elementary Education teacher who discovered her passion for working with children when she volunteered as a summer camp teacher. During that experience, she observed a child with autism receiving support services and was deeply inspired. Motivated to make a difference, she applied for a Therapeutic Support Specialist (TSS) position and quickly realized she had found her life’s calling.

Jodi spent over 15 years with the same agency, advancing through several roles while continuing her education. Her positions included Therapeutic Support Specialist (TSS), Behavioral Support Consultant (BSC), and Behavioral Health Rehabilitative Services (BHRS) provider. She also served as a Special Education Supervisor and Behavioral Analyst at the agency’s private school. Additionally, Jodi supervised Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) fieldwork students for the University of Pittsburgh.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and Elementary Education certification from Washington & Jefferson College, followed by a Master’s degree in Education with a specialization in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of Pittsburgh. Jodi has been a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) since January 2011 and a Licensed Behavior Specialist since June 2013.

Today, Jodi works as a BCBA supporting children ages 2 to 14 with autism. She is known for her fierce commitment and dedication to the families, teachers, and students she serves.

In addition to her clinical work, Jodi provides BCBA/RBT fieldwork supervision, reflective supervision, and training/coaching on autism and behavior management. She is a certified Safety-Care Crisis Prevention trainer through QBS and conducts Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) for schools and early childhood centers. She enjoys using reverse brainstorming techniques to coach and support adults working in challenging classroom environments.

Jodi’s passion is helping children with autism grow as individuals and thrive in their homes, schools, and communities.

Jordan Dornin-Bs.eD.

Jordan’s passion for special education was sparked in high school, where she worked at a summer camp for children with special needs. Her dedication and natural leadership led her to become the camp director, a role that deepened her commitment to supporting children with diverse abilities. Inspired by the meaningful connections she built and the difference she could make, Jordan pursued a career in education. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Special Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, graduating with a solid foundation for her future work.

Over the past decade and a half, Jordan has had the privilege of working with students of all ages and abilities, including those with autism, emotional disorders, physical limitations, intellectual disabilities, and behavioral challenges. She has taught in emotional support, learning support, and autistic support settings, where she has developed personalized strategies to help each student thrive both academically and personally.

After leaving the classroom, Jordan transitioned to the field of early intervention, continuing to work with young children and their families. She gained valuable experience supporting children with developmental delays, equipping them with the tools for early growth and success. Jordan also worked closely alongside a psychologist specializing in adolescent disorders, gaining a deeper understanding of selective mutism. In addition, she holds training in infant mental health, which has further equipped her to support children and families from the earliest developmental stages.

Jordan is especially passionate about working closely with parents and caregivers. She is known for building deep, trusting relationships with the families she serves and takes a collaborative, team-based approach to ensure each child receives the most effective and compassionate support possible.

Today, Jordan is proud to be part of the Engage Kidz team, where she offers educational and behavioral services to children, families, and educators.

Meggan Fleming - M.Ed.

With over fifteen years of experience in special education, Meggan is a passionate and dedicated educator committed to supporting families, teachers, and caregivers. Her career began after earning a degree in Elementary and Special Education from Slippery Rock University. She started in an Easter Seals classroom, where her leadership and compassion quickly led to a promotion as an Integration Specialist. In that role, she guided families through the transition from Easter Seals programs into public school systems, ensuring continuity of care and support.

Meggan holds a Master’s Degree in Early Intervention with a specialization in Autism from the University of Pittsburgh. Her expertise lies in helping those she works with navigate challenging behaviors, creating more positive educational, social, and interpersonal experiences for children and those who care for them.

Meggan’s approach is collaborative, empathetic, and rooted in evidence-based practices—empowering families and educators to build brighter futures together.

Janelle Waag- M.Ed.

Janelle Waag is a developmental/behavioral therapist who believes that early intervention into a child’s development is key to helping them grow to their full potential. She coaches parents, educators, and children through challenging times. Janelle works alongside parents and educators, developing tools that help children enjoy individual success.

Janelle is a graduate of Indiana University of PA with a degree focused on child development and family relations. She has a Master’s degree in early childhood education from Carlow University. She has worked as a Therapeutic Support Staff, in a school setting as a preschool teacher in a special education school, and as a developmental and behavioral therapist in Early Intervention.

When Janelle is not working with children, families, and teachers, you’ll find her enjoying the most recent beach read and hanging out with her 2 children.

Nancy lehman - B.A. Psychology

Nancy is a seasoned early childhood professional with over 20 years of experience supporting children, families, and educators. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a graduate certificate in Infant Mental Health, along with certification in drug and alcohol counseling. Her career began working with juveniles in placement and in school-based prevention programs, but her path shifted after her own child received early intervention services. That personal experience ignited a passion for helping families navigate developmental concerns with empathy and confidence.

Since 2006, Nancy has worked extensively with children facing developmental delays, communication challenges, social-emotional struggles, and behavioral concerns. She partners closely with parents, caregivers, and teachers to build supportive environments and create individualized strategies rooted in strengths-based, trauma-informed practices.

Nancy’s approach emphasizes the power of relationships to drive positive change. She is trained in DIR®/Floortime and has significant experience supporting children with autism spectrum disorders and complex developmental needs. Her collaborative style empowers caregivers to feel confident and connected in their role, while always centering the needs of the child.

Grounded in curiosity and empathy, Nancy believes that “wondering” is the first step toward understanding—and that understanding leads to meaningful growth for both children and the adults who support them.

HUNTER HUDSON - M.Ed.,LBS

Hunter spent 4 years working as a direct support professional, working with adults with special needs while attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania for her bachelors in Disability Services. Upon graduating, Hunter then became a behavior specialist and quickly learned her passion for all things behavior! Hunter then decided to further her education and went on to receive her Master’s of Education and Applied Behavior Analysis from California University of Pennsylvania. While completing her masters program, Hunter began working as a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT), working with children with developmental disabilities, trauma backgrounds, and their families in their homes, school, and community settings. Upon completing the master’s program in May of 2022, Hunter transitioned to the role of a behavioral consultant. Hunter enjoys working with children with trauma backgrounds and helping parents navigate the waves of behavior!

When Hunter is not working, you’ll find her enjoying hikes in nature, playing with her dog, Monte, and doing CrossFit to prioritize her health!

RACHAEL Lukon - MS, BCBA, LBS

With 20 years of experience in the BHRS/IBHS field, Rachael has worked with individuals ranging from 2 to 21 years of age, providing high-quality care and support. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who has served as a Behavior Specialist since 2008 and a Licensed Behavior Specialist since 2012. Over the years, Rachael has held a variety of roles, including outpatient therapist, mobile therapist, strength-based therapist, Licensed Behavior Specialist, and Assistant Clinical Director, each role reinforcing her commitment to helping individuals with behavioral challenges.

Rachael earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and Sociology in 2004 from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and began her career as a TSS working with individuals with autism, learning, and behavioral disorders. She later earned her Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Clarion University in 2008 and completed the ABA/CLM (Competent Learner Model) Advanced Competency Certificate Program in 2022, which helped her achieve her BCBA certification.

Currently, Rachael offers high-quality BCBA supervision to aspiring behavior analysts, focusing on ethical practice, clinical excellence, and individualized growth. She is passionate about mentoring the next generation of behavior analysts and guiding them toward success in the field.

In addition to her supervision work, Rachael collaborates with camp staff and counselors at the Pittsburgh Zoo's Engage Kidz program, where she supports children with diverse behavioral needs in recreational settings. She also works within local school districts, utilizing data-driven behavioral assessments and interventions to promote student success. Rachael specializes in conducting Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) to identify the underlying functions of challenging behaviors and develop personalized support strategies.

Throughout her career, Rachael has remained dedicated to advocating for and supporting families, teachers, and caregivers in managing challenging behaviors with compassion and respect. Her goal is to create hope and provide practical guidance for parents and children alike.

Outside of her professional work, Rachael enjoys spending time with her family, attending her son’s baseball games and her daughter’s gymnastics and cheer competitions. She values work-life balance and cherishes time spent with her loved ones.

JAN HOCULOCK

Jan Hoculock is a Behavioral and Educational Therapist with over 12 years of experience supporting young children and their families. She specializes in early childhood development, working with children from birth through elementary school to foster emotional well-being, learning readiness, and strong relationships.

Jan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development and Family Relations from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and an Early Childhood Family Associate Endorsement through the Pennsylvania Association for Infant Mental Health (PA-AIMH). Her approach is rooted in relationship-centered learning, informed by specialized training in Conscious Discipline and trauma-informed classroom practices.

A participant in Educators’ Neighborhood through the Fred Rogers Institute, Jan integrates Mr. Rogers’ enduring philosophy of respect, empathy, and connection into her work. Her professional experience includes leadership and teaching roles in Head Start, nonprofit preschools, and child care centers, where she has consistently created environments where children feel safe, valued, and empowered to grow.

Jan is deeply committed to supporting families and educators in nurturing each child’s emotional and developmental needs, laying the foundation for lifelong success.