About Us
The Learning Perch was founded as a labor of love by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) who saw a need to improve the care for students with autism. We set out to provide students with the quality care they truly deserve, without compromise.
By maintaining small, manageable caseloads, our therapists can dedicate ample time and attention to each child’s unique needs. With a strong emphasis on family collaboration, we ensure that families leave each session equipped with tools and insights to support their child well into the future. We look forward to joining you on this journey!
What makes us Different
BCBA Owned & Operated
Our company is founded and operated by Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) ensuring that clinical decisions are guided by expertise and a deep understanding of best practices. This approach allows us to focus on long-term student success rather than external business interests.
Naturalistic, Evidence-Based Therapy
Our therapy is rooted in evidence-based techniques delivered in natural environments (i.e, the student’s home), ensuring that learning is both effective and transferable to everyday situations.
Family Focused
We believe in working closely with families to create a collaborative and supportive environment, empowering caregivers with the tools and knowledge needed to promote success at home.
Small BCBA-to-Student Ratios
We prioritize low BCBA-to-student ratios to provide individualized attention and maximize the effectiveness of each therapy session, helping our students make meaningful progress.
Our mission is to provide
compassionate, quality care;
without compromise.
Meet the Team
-
Shanna McConnell, M.S., BCBA, LBA
Founder & Owner
Shanna has been dedicated to the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) since 2015, providing services to children across home, clinic, and community settings. She earned her Master of Science in Research Psychology with an emphasis in ABA which led to becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Shanna co-founded Learning Perch ABA in 2024 to provide individualized services that emphasize family collaboration and meaningful learning experiences. Outside of work, Shanna enjoys exploring Austin’s arts and food scene, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.
-
Kelsey Scotka, B.A.
Registered Behavior Technician
Kelsey began her career in ABA in 2024 after several years working as a nanny. She has experience as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) providing one-on-one therapy to children and adults and joined the Learning Perch family in 2025. Kelsey studied Kinesiology at St. Edward's University and is passionate about providing neuroaffirming, compassionate care that celebrates every child's progress. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, watching scary movies, and spending time in nature.
-
Ashley Herrera, B.A.
Registered Behavior Technician
Ashley began working in the field of ABA in 2024 and is a RBT with experience providing early intervention services in both clinic and home settings. She earned her bachelor's degree from Baylor University and is currently pursuing a master's degree in ABA with the goal of becoming BCBA. Ashley is passionate about helping young children and their families build meaningful skills through evidence-based therapy. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with friends and family and playing with and training her puppy.
-
Aidan McCaffrey, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Aidan joined the field of ABA in 2024 before becoming a BCBA in 2026. Aidan earned his Master’s Degree in Education with a focus in Early Intervention from the University of Texas at Austin. His interest in ABA began at a young age following his younger brother’s autism diagnosis, which led him to serve as a peer model, camp counselor, and research assistant studying early social development and intervention. In his free time, Aidan enjoys listening to music, attending concerts, spending time with friends, and staying active.
-
Courtney Willcut, B.F.A.
Registered Behavior Technician & Operations Coordinator
Courtney began her career in ABA in 2024 after working as a nanny, camp counselor, and substitute teacher. She is a RBT and the Operations Coordinator with experience providing early intervention services and earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance from Freed-Hardeman University. Courtney enjoys creating engaging, supportive learning environments where children feel confident, understood, and empowered. In her free time, she enjoys theatre and film, traveling, reading, spending time with family and friends, and being involved in her church community.
-
Alyssa Bugg, A.A.
Registered Behavior Technician
Alyssa began her career in ABA in 2022 after spending time working as a nanny. She is a RBT and is passionate about bringing patience, warmth, and consistency to every child and adult she works with. Alyssa has worked with both children and adults in home, clinic, school, and community settings. Outside of work, Alyssa loves spending time with her friends and family, and enjoys movies and time in nature.
-
Cameron Leikin, M.A.
Registered Behavior Technician
Cameron began working in ABA in 2012 after graduating from undergrad in Special Education from New England College in New Hampshire. He currently has an RBT certification and is studying for his BCaBA, where he obtained his masters degree from Arizona State University. Cameron is dedicated to helping young learners learn and develop skills necessary to succeed within their environment. Outside of work, Cameron enjoys creating music, attending sporting events, collecting sneakers, and exploring new places.
-
Paul Conway M.A., M.Phil., BCBA, LBA
Founder & Owner
Paul has been working in the field of ABA since 2018 and has supported children and adults with behavioral needs since 2015. He earned a Master of Philosophy from Trinity College Dublin, a Master of Special Education from Arizona State University, and later became a BCBA. As a Founder of Learning Perch ABA, Paul is committed to providing compassionate, learner-centered care. Outside of work, Paul enjoys running, hiking with his wife, and spending time with musical instruments.