Founder and Clinical Director
Marci Acevedo Manzo MS, BCBA, LBA
My journey with ABA therapy began more than two decades ago, ignited by an experience as a one-on-one aide in special education. I was dedicated to a bright 4-year-old girl with autism, and together, we embarked on a learning adventure. One of our goals was to recognize the color red—a task that proved challenging. Despite our best efforts, success seemed out of reach, and I found myself grappling with feelings of defeat.
Then, serendipity struck. An ABA therapist, working with another child in the room, noticed our struggle. She offered her assistance, and I eagerly accepted, hopeful for a new perspective. Remarkably, after just a few sessions, that little girl achieved a breakthrough: she correctly identified the color red. This moment wasn't just a victory for her; it was a pivotal turning point for me, solidifying my passion for ABA therapy and the incredible impact it can have on a child's learning journey.
Following my bachelor's degree in psychology, I was eager to delve deeper into the field, leading me to obtain a master's degree in counseling, with a special focus on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). My career took a significant turn when I joined an ABA agency as a Supervisor and was later promoted to Director. This agency, founded by a mother driven by the need for more accessible ABA services due to long waiting lists, was a great source of inspiration. It allowed me to witness firsthand the transformative effect of ABA therapy—not just on the children we worked with but on their entire families. A crucial element of our success was the active involvement and support of these families.
Moreover, my experience there taught me the intricacies of running an ABA-focused organization with a family-first approach. My responsibilities spanned working in various settings such as homes, schools, and communities, ensuring that ABA programs remained consistent and effective across all areas of a child's life. I had the opportunity to work with children ranging from 18 months to 13 years of age.
Later in my career, I transitioned to a role as Supervisor of Autism Services for a large school district in Southern California. This district was pioneering in its approach, being the first in the area to offer in-house ABA services. In this capacity, I oversaw ABA programs across several elementary, middle, and high schools. My duties included assessing children for eligibility for school-based ABA therapy, supervising a team of behavior therapists, collaborating with and training school staff, participating in IEP meetings, and monitoring the progress of the children under my care. This broad range of experiences has not only enriched my professional journey but has also reinforced my commitment to enhancing the lives of children and families through ABA therapy.
Fifteen years ago, my husband and I embarked on a transformative journey to Colorado, where we founded our ABA therapy agency, The Behavioral Growing Tree. Drawing on our extensive experience and deep understanding of Applied Behavior Analysis, we established a nurturing environment dedicated to supporting children with special needs.
As a small, family-owned business, we pride ourselves on maintaining a personal approach by focusing on just a few clients at a time. This strategy ensures that each child receives the tailored, attentive care they deserve, helping them to thrive and achieve their fullest potential. At The Behavioral Growing Tree, we're committed to delivering high-quality ABA therapy, fostering significant developmental strides in communication, social skills, and behavior in a supportive, family-friendly atmosphere.