People in Our Community

ABCs Autism Development Group, LLC would like to recognize people in the local Autism community. Many of these individuals have made great sacrifaces and dedicated their life to promote Autism awareness and help those affected by Autism. We would like to recognize these people and the many that often go unrecognized for their tremendous efforts.

Zahra Pashazadeh

Zahra has an older brother with Autism. She made a great personal sacrifice when she left her graduate studies at East Tennessee State University where she was studying speech pathology to help her brother transition into adult facilities. Zahra has also dedicated her life to helping others affected by Autism. She has been a therapist in the local community for many years and everyone loves working with her. We would like to acknowledge Zahra for her sacrifices and her dedication to working with others affected by Autism.

Luciana Tani

Fabiana Zelaya is a mother to a child with Autism. She would like to recognize Luciana Tani for her outstanding achievements and dedication to children with Autism.

“Luciana Tani has changed my life in many ways. When my son was first diagnosed with Autism, heartbreak and pain overcame me. It’s a type of heartache that you never forget. I met Luciana by chance at a social gathering. We exchanged phone numbers and from there a bond began. She helped me get organized, find my way and start my home programs. At the time, I had only 2 other people assisting me. She trained us and worked hard to organize my basement to do therapy there. She has cared for my son Nico as if he was her own and helped me get stronger to help my son. She stays positive on even the worst moments and supports our son in ways that are unimaginable. My son did not speak much until 4. With Luciana as our guide, we did a long process to get him to comply and speak.  I am thankful everyday that she is in my life and my son loves her.

Justine Chang

Justine Chang started her career as an ABA therapist at the Fairfax County Public Schools ABA Pilot Program. She has 8 years of experience working with children in the autism spectrum as a therapist at the Pilot program, in several private in-home programs, and as a consultant for in-home ABA/VB programs. Justine has also presented a workshop with POAC last year on Manding. She has attended several workshops and presentations conducted by many famous people in the Behavior Analysis field such as Jack Michaels, Dr. Vincent Carbone, Dr. Sunberg etc and has received training for home programs from some of the best consultants in the country. Justine has a Bachelors Degree in Sociology and she is working on becoming a Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst.

Jake Sizemore

Jake Sizemore is a 10 year old boy with Autism. Jake has overcome the affects of Autism to participate in many activities including an upcoming dance production of Cinderella with his peers. Jake will be a cobbler in the production at the Center for Ballet Arts dance studio in Fairfax, VA. Although he may not know it, Jake has become an inspiration to many.

Nominate Someone You Know

If you would like to nominate a person to be highlighted please send an email with the person's name, a brief description of why they should be highlighted, and a picture if possible to us at info@ABCsAutismGroup.com.