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 commitment is to empower both children and families for lasting positive change
Meet the Team
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Shanna McConnell, M.S., BCBA, LBA
CO-FOUNDER & BCBA
Shanna has been dedicated to the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) since 2015, working with children across home, clinic, and community settings. Throughout her career, she has served as both a 1:1 behavior therapist and a program supervisor, gaining hands-on experience in individualized therapy and program development.
She earned her Master of Science in Research Psychology with an emphasis in ABA and later became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. With a deep passion for high-quality, client-centered care, she co-founded Learning Perch ABA to create a practice that prioritizes family collaboration, compassionate therapy, and individualized learning experiences.
Shanna specializes in early intervention and parent training, ensuring that parents and caregivers feel equipped to support their child’s progress beyond therapy sessions. She believes that ABA should be compassionate and neuroaffirming, creating meaningful learning experiences that empower both children and their families.
Outside of work, Shanna enjoys exploring Austin’s arts and food scene, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. She looks forward to connecting with families and helping children thrive through learner-first ABA therapy.
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Paul Conway M.A., M.Phil., BCBA, LBA
CO-FOUNDER & BCBA
Paul has been working in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis since 2018 and has supported children and adults with behavioral needs since 2015. He has worked with individuals ages 1 to 70 across home, clinic, and community settings, serving as both a 1:1 behavior therapist and a clinical supervisor before co-founding Learning Perch ABA.
He holds a Master of Philosophy from Trinity College Dublin and a Master of Special Education from Arizona State University. He later became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, driven by a passion for providing high-quality, learner-centered care. As co-founder, he is committed to building a team of dedicated professionals, fostering strong family collaboration, and ensuring that every learner receives individualized, compassionate support.
Paul specializes in behavioral interventions for children and adults, emphasizing evidence-based strategies that promote independence and meaningful progress. He believes that ABA should be thoughtful, ethical, and centered on the needs of each learner, creating an environment where individuals thrive.
Outside of work, Paul enjoys hiking, playing tuba, and spending time with friends and family. He looks forward to continuing to grow Learning Perch ABA as a space where passionate professionals and families work together to create lasting change.