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Ad Astra Autism Centers is one of the premier providers of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy in the St. Louis area. Rooted in our name, “Ad Astra,” meaning “to the stars,” our mission is to help children with autism grow, learn, and shine.
ABA therapy is a proven, evidence-based approach that helps children with autism develop essential skills like communication and behavior management. Through positive reinforcement and structured learning, ABA empowers children to thrive in their daily lives.
Our early intervention approach is designed to meet young children where they are through play. By making learning fun, we create an engaging environment where children naturally build important skills and grow at their own pace.
No two children are the same, which is why every treatment plan at Ad Astra is tailored to fit your child’s unique needs. Our individualized approach ensures the best possible outcomes by focusing on each child’s strengths and areas for growth.
When you choose Ad Astra, you’re not just getting therapy — you’re partnering with a team who truly cares. Our experienced therapists are dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families. We pride ourselves on providing a nurturing, supportive, and results-driven environment that empowers children to grow and thrive.
At Ad Astra Autism Centers, our team of dedicated Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) is at the heart of our mission. Each member brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and a commitment to helping children thrive. Get to know some of the professionals who are guiding your child’s journey to success.
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Melissa Atis is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst who has 15 years of experience providing services to children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. During this time, Melissa has provided direct therapy, consultation, parent and staff training and supervision in a variety of settings, including homes, supported living settings, school districts, and community settings. She has also provided training and mentorship to new professionals in the field.
Melissa graduated Summa Cum Laude from Lindenwood University in St. Charles, MO with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. She then went on to attend Saint Louis University to obtain a Master’s degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis; and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in 2013. Melissa truly enjoys working with children and their families; and she is passionate about helping families navigate early intervention services. Her primary goal is to empower families by implementing quality evidence-based interventions to help every child reach their fullest potential.
Natalie Corzine is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with over 20 years of experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. Natalie specializes in providing ABA services to both children and adults with autism and developmental delays. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia, where she began providing ABA services as a therapist to children with developmental disabilities through First Steps. She later obtained a Master of Science degree in Counseling with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis from Nova Southeastern University in Florida. Natalie became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in May 2013.
Natalie’s career includes over 12 years in the ABA department at Special School District, delivering direct services to students with educational disabilities, training paraeducators, and consulting with educators, service providers, and parents. Beyond that, she has continued providing ABA services in home, community, and clinic settings to clients with autism and developmental disabilities for the past 7 years. Additionally, she has mentored and supervised aspiring behavior analysts, fostering the next generation of professionals in the field.
Natalie is inspired to work closely with families of children with autism by building a connection and becoming an advocate for the services and needs of their child. This includes offering therapeutic support, education, assistance navigating the IEP process, and parent coaching to various families. Natalie is dedicated to providing high-quality services that focus on teaching functional communication, replacement behaviors, leisure skills, and adaptive and safety skills. She aims to help individuals on the autism spectrum reach their full potential and lead successful, fulfilling lives.
Mya Watson-Blake is a dedicated and recently certified Board Certified Behavior Analyst, bringing three years of invaluable experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. Prior to her certification, she served as a Registered Behavior Technician, where she provided essential services to children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Throughout her career, Mya has delivered direct therapy both in home environments and clinical settings, showcasing her versatility and commitment to her clients.
Mya earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from McKendree University in Lebanon, IL, before pursuing a Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, MO. Her educational background has equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist children in overcoming challenges and achieving their full potential.
Erika-Renee brings a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and dedication to the Ad Astra team. As a Student Behavior Analyst, she is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of children with autism and developmental disabilities. Erika-Renee holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Missouri – St. Louis and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis at the same institution. She is on track to complete her degree in August 2025, after which she will begin training to transition into a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) role.
Erika-Renee’s passion lies in early intervention, recognizing the critical importance of building foundational skills during a child’s early years. Aligned with Ad Astra’s mission—“to the stars”—she works to help children grow, learn, and shine by fostering essential skills and empowering families to support progress beyond therapy sessions.
Her work focuses on creating meaningful change not only for the children she serves but also for their families, including parents and siblings, by enhancing communication, fostering independence, and strengthening relationships. Erika-Renee is proud to be part of the Ad Astra team, working toward the shared goal of helping every child achieve their fullest potential.
