Roots Team
Mallory DeMarco
Special Education Teacher, BCBA, LBA
I have been working alongside neurodivergent individuals and their families since 2007, when a summer job substituting in a preschool classroom for children on the autism spectrum unexpectedly changed the course of my life. Although I had always planned to pursue elementary education, that experience sparked a deep passion that has guided my career ever since. From there, I worked as a respite provider in Rhode Island while completing my undergraduate degree in psychology, gaining firsthand experience supporting children and families in their natural environments.
After graduating, I continued my work in both ABA and DIR-based classrooms as a paraprofessional and substitute teacher while earning my Master’s degree in Elementary and Special Education. I spent over five years as a high school special education teacher, supporting students through critical transitional years, before beginning my journey toward becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I earned my BCBA credential in 2020 and went on to complete Level One DIR® training through Profectum, as well as a Certificate in Developmental Models of Autism Intervention from Montclair State University.
My approach is shaped not only by my education, but by nearly two decades of hands-on experience working directly with neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan. I believe deeply in a holistic, child-first model that honors each individual’s unique strengths, needs, and developmental path. True, lasting progress happens when we collaborate with a child’s entire village—families, caregivers, educators, and community supports. My long-term vision is to expand opportunities for adults over 21, empowering them to actively engage in their communities, build meaningful independence, and live full, connected lives.
Aubrey Byrne Mangel
BCBA, LBA
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, certified in 2016, and licensed in Connecticut and New Jersey. At Roots, I support children in building communication, confidence, and independence through neuroaffirming, child-led, play-based intervention. My primary focus is early language and foundational skills for young learners ages 0 to 6, and I also work with preteens through young adults around self-regulation, social navigation, and self-advocacy.
What originally drew me to this work was language. Helping a child communicate more easily often changes everything about how they experience the world. Over time, my work has expanded beyond skill-building to include supporting the adults around the child, helping caregivers experience the joy of being part of their child’s growth and progress.
Families often describe me as collaborative, practical, and genuinely joyful. Sessions are intentionally playful and grounded in connection. Laughter is not accidental in my work, both in sessions and in how I train staff. My clinical style blends naturalistic teaching with just enough structure to help children feel safe. I often describe this as setting guardrails first, then allowing freedom. Children and their caregivers are encouraged to try, wobble, and succeed without pressure. One area I especially enjoy is toilet training, where I have guided many families using calm, stepwise plans that prioritize trust and consistency.
I work closely with parents and teachers and anchor my recommendations in family values. If something is working well for a child or family, I am not there to change it. My role is to offer options, share perspective, and advocate for what helps children feel more regulated, more joyful, and more independent.
My background includes work as an in-home therapist, roles within private ABA schools and insurance-based center models, and leadership positions as both a BCBA and Clinical Director. I hold a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University and have presented original research at ABAI and NJABA.
Outside of work, I am a toddler mom, a cat mom, and a cellist. I am also a 500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher. Across all of my cases, I aim to blend personal and professional experience to offer support that is grounded in research and shaped by care, attunement, and real life.
Isabella Vassallo
BCBA, LBA
Hi! My name is Isabella. I’ve been a BCBA for about two and a half years, and I really enjoy the work I do. I earned my master’s degree at the University of Arizona, which was such a great experience and helped shape the career I’m in today. When I’m not working, I love spending time with my family and friends—they’re such an important part of my life. I also really enjoy cooking and baking, whether it’s trying out new recipes or making favorites to share with the people I care about. Finding a balance between work, family, and hobbies has been really meaningful to me, and I’m always excited to keep growing both personally and professionally!
Kelley Slyne
BCBA, LBA
I have been a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) since 2023. I earned my bachelor's degree in Allied Health Science from the University of Connecticut and my master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Bay Path University. I have always been passionate about helping others, which led me to pursue a career in the field of ABA.
Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with children and adolescents ranging in age from 18 months to 18 years old across public school, center-based, and in-home settings. These experiences have allowed me to support individuals with a wide variety of strengths, needs, and goals.
I have a special interest in fostering social connections with peers and siblings, as well as developing play and independence skills that promote meaningful participation in daily life. My approach is client-centered and focused on creating positive, lasting change for the children and families I serve. I believe in building strong relationships, celebrating each child's unique strengths, and collaborating closely with families to support meaningful growth and success.
Mackenzie Hascup
BCBA, LBA
Bio coming soon...