Amberly Caballero earned her MSEd in applied behavior analysis from Temple University’s College of Education, now the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), in 2009. I recently had the privilege of sitting down with her for an inspirational conversation, where she shared her deep passion and commitment to her work and her appreciation for the CEHD in shaping her life.
What drew you to Temple’s College of Education and Human Development for your graduate studies?
Temple’s program was the only one that really sparked my heart. I’ve worked in Autism care for 22 years, beginning in 2003, just as the field was entering a time of evolution. I had just graduated from Rowan University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and I knew I wanted to work with children, but I hadn’t yet found my path.
A transformative moment came during an interview for the Philadelphia-based HEART program, working as a behavior therapist with preschool-aged children diagnosed with Autism. As part of the interview, I observed a therapist working with a young boy in his home. I remember this day so vividly – when the door was opened, the sun came shining in so brightly from the window, and I saw this little boy bouncing a balloon in the air. I immediately gravitated to him and started bouncing the balloon with him. When I learned he had a diagnosis of Autism, something clicked, and I knew in that moment I was exactly where I was meant to be. That interaction shaped my career. The logo for my company, Elevated Kids, even includes a balloon, as a reminder of where my journey began.
Two colleagues, Melanie Pellecchia and Megan Riley, exhibited an inspiring approach to their work in the field. I needed to know where they were learning, because that’s where I wanted to be. That’s when I discovered Temple’s applied behavior analysis program and its renowned faculty.
Who were your most influential mentors at Temple’s CEHD?
There were several incredible mentors that left a lasting impact. Three that stand out are Dr. Saul Axelrod, Dr. Jim Connell and Dr. Philip Hineline.
Dr. Axelrod started as my professor, then became a mentor, and then became my friend who continues to celebrate my accomplishments! He empowered me to think outside the box and to carve new paths in our field, fueling my passion for learning and innovation. His belief in me sparked the confidence I needed to pursue excellence, and his impact and support over the years has meant the world to me.
Dr. Connell started as my mentor and also became a wonderful friend. He ignited my love of research and role as an implementation scientist. He inspired me to seek diverse connections in the field, connecting me to a multifaceted, multidisciplinary practicum experience in my final year at Temple that shaped my collaborative approach to care. Even today, he is one of my biggest supporters, always cheering me on, and I am forever grateful.
Dr. Hineline taught a functional analysis seminar that was known to be the “scary” class in the program. Eager to learn under Dr. Hineline’s teaching, I took this class in my very first semester and can attest that the class was scary and hard. It was also amazing and thought-provoking. Dr. Hineline had a brilliant way of connecting to my developing behavior analyst mind that was so engaging. His guidance energized my critical thinking and analytical, data-based mindset.
These mentors, along with others in the CEHD, instilled in me the importance of impacting care with compassion, big picture vision and evolving innovation.
Tell us about your company, Elevated Kids, and its mission.
At Elevated Kids, everything we do is centered around supporting children and families in meaningful ways. We work with children up to eight years old, and their families, partnering to empower parents with the tools they need for success.
A big focus for us has been providing waitlist-free early diagnoses and immediate access to our one-of-a-kind approach to care. Families in Philadelphia often wait 18 months for a diagnosis, delaying critical early interventions. We wanted to change that. Our approach combines developmental science and behavioral science to create a naturalistic, play-based model. It’s about meeting children where they are, connecting to their unique strengths, and following their lead in play and natural routines to create many opportunities for learning.
We started in Philadelphia and have expanded to New Jersey, New York and Texas. We’ve also launched neurodiversity-affirming approach to social skills groups and are now developing a preschool program to support children who need a different approach to learning and an inclusive, regulating environment in which to grow. We believe in celebrating the joy of childhood, using play as a stage for learning and connecting to all the wonderful uniqueness that makes each child who they are.
What makes Temple alumni stand out in the field?
Temple graduates bring passion, critical thinking and a strong sense of integrity to their work. The program’s rigorous curriculum and brilliant faculty prepare students to be competent and confident clinicians.
Beyond technical skills, the CEHD fosters a commitment to personal integrity, compassion and social responsibility. Many graduates remain in Philadelphia, dedicated to giving back to underserved communities.
What advice would you give to Temple CEHD students entering the workforce?
Trust yourself. The foundation you’ve built at Temple has prepared you for success. Lean into your unique passion that brought you here and let it guide you as you grow.
What makes you proud to be Temple Made?
Being Temple Made means belonging to a community that values ever-learning, growth and commitment to service. It’s a source of pride and a reminder to incessantly pursue my passion for innovative approaches to care, leadership and making a difference.
Tell us about your transformative story and how Temple’s College of Education and Human Development has impacted your journey. Contact ednews@temple.edu.