Cardinal Pediatric Therapies

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Visual Supports and Autism

For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), communication, routines, and transitions can sometimes present unique challenges. While many therapeutic approaches exist to help children navigate daily life, visual supports stand out as a highly effective, research-backed strategy that aligns with the strengths of visual learners and those who thrive in

what-type-of-therapy-is-best-for-autism

What Type of Therapy Is Best for Autism?

Every child on the autism spectrum is unique, which means their path to growth, learning, and independence should be just as personalized. When it comes to helping children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), one of the most common questions parents ask is: What type of therapy is best for autism?

life-skills-for-autism

Life Skills for Autism

Helping children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) build essential life skills is a core part of promoting independence and long-term well-being. These skills enable individuals to take care of themselves, interact with others, and navigate the world with greater confidence. At Cardinal Pediatric Therapies, we believe that developing life skills

autism-friendly-vacations

Autism Friendly Vacations

Family vacations are an opportunity to create lifelong memories, explore new places, and enjoy quality time together. For families with children on the autism spectrum, however, travel can also bring added layers of planning, stress, and uncertainty. The good news is that with proper preparation and the right destination, autism-friendly

home-adaptations-for-autism

Home Adaptations for Autism

For children with autism, the home environment plays a critical role in their development, comfort, and ability to navigate everyday life. Home adaptations for autism are more than just convenience upgrades; they are thoughtful, evidence-based modifications that support a child’s sensory, communication, behavioral, and emotional needs. Whether your child receives

what-to-look-for-in-an-aba-therapist

What to Look for in an ABA Therapist

Finding the right ABA therapist can make a lasting difference in your child’s development. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is one of the most effective, evidence-based approaches to helping children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) improve communication, behavior, and daily living skills. But not all ABA therapists are the same.

sensory-activities-for-preschoolers-with-autism

Sensory Activities for Preschoolers with Autism

Preschoolers on the autism spectrum often experience the world through a unique sensory lens. Some individuals may be susceptible to certain sounds, textures, or lights. In contrast, others may actively seek sensory input through actions like jumping, spinning, or repeatedly touching objects. These sensory processing differences are common in autism.

therapeutic-activities-for-autism

Therapeutic Activities for Autism

Children on the autism spectrum experience the world in unique ways. For many families, finding meaningful ways to support communication, sensory regulation, behavior, and independence can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, therapeutic activities provide a structured, engaging, and developmentally appropriate way to help children with autism grow and thrive. At Cardinal Pediatric

how-to-explain-autism-to-siblings

How to Explain Autism to Siblings

When one child in a family is diagnosed with autism, it can affect the entire household, especially siblings. Brothers and sisters may have questions, frustrations, or even feelings of confusion about what autism means and how it impacts their daily lives. Parents often find themselves wondering how to explain autism

what-is-the-best-age-to-start-aba-therapy

What is the Best Age to Start ABA Therapy?

For parents of children showing signs of autism or developmental delays, early questions can feel overwhelming. One of the most common and important questions is this: What is the best age to start ABA therapy? Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is considered the gold standard for helping children on the

What Are the 5 Main Symptoms of Autism - Cardinal

What Are the 5 Main Symptoms of Autism?

Understanding autism spectrum disorder (ASD) starts with recognizing the signs. For parents and caregivers, knowing what to look for can be the first step toward early support, intervention, and hope.  At Cardinal Pediatric Therapies, we specialize in helping children develop communication, social, and daily living skills through customized ABA therapy

Best Autism Schools in Phoenix

Best Autism Schools in Phoenix

Finding the right learning environment for a child with autism can feel overwhelming, especially in a city as large and diverse as Phoenix. Parents searching for the best autism schools want more than academic achievement. They’re looking for a setting that nurtures growth, supports individual learning styles, and provides compassionate,

Does My Child Have Autism Cardinal Pediatric Therapies

Does My Child Have Autism?

It’s one of the most difficult and emotional questions a parent can ask: Does my child have autism?  You may have noticed that your child isn’t hitting developmental milestones at the same time as their peers. Perhaps they’re having trouble communicating, avoid eye contact, or prefer playing alone. While these

Autism Sleep Regression in Cardinal

Autism Sleep Regression

Sleep is a vital part of every child’s development, but for many families raising children with autism, restful nights can be hard to come by.  Even when sleep routines are well-established, there may be times when those routines suddenly stop working. If your child was once sleeping through the night

Best Sensory Toys for Autism

Best Sensory Toys for Autism

Selecting the right toys for children with autism can significantly enhance their developmental progress, engagement, and comfort.  Sensory toys specifically cater to the unique sensory needs common among autistic children, providing therapeutic benefits that support their growth and well-being. At Cardinal Pediatric Therapies, we understand the importance of selecting appropriate

How to Get an Autism Evaluation

How to Get an Autism Evaluation?

Suspecting your child might have autism can be overwhelming. Getting an autism evaluation is the crucial first step toward clarity and support.  Autism evaluations involve comprehensive assessments by professionals to identify developmental delays or signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Early identification is vital, as timely interventions can significantly improve

navigating autism as a parent

Navigating Autism as a Parent

Navigating autism as a parent can be one of the most emotionally complex and demanding journeys a family may face. From navigating a diagnosis to finding the right therapies and support systems, the process often feels overwhelming, but you are not alone.

Chaining used in ABA

What is Chaining in ABA?

In the realm of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), various techniques are employed to help individuals learn and develop new skills, behaviors, and routines.

Dr. Mike Henderson, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA

Regional Operations Director

North Carolina

Mike Henderson, PhD, LBA, BCBA-D, is the Regional Operations Director at Cardinal Pediatric Therapies. With over two decades of experience in behavior analysis and organizational leadership, he focuses on mentoring teams and fostering a culture of collaboration, growth, and excellence in client care. Mike believes strong leadership and supportive systems are essential for helping clients, families, and providers succeed together.

Felicia Freeman

Clinic Manager

I am Felicia Freeman, the Clinic Manager for Cardinal Pediatric Therapies. I have been in ABA for several years now and am passionate about the community that we serve. I started out as an RBT, decided to go the administrative route, and worked my way up to managing clinics. I choose this field every day because I enjoy making a meaningful impact in the lives of our clients and building strong teams that change lives.

Amanda Dean, MA, BCBA, LBA

Johnston County, NC

Amanda graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2018 with her Masters in Psychology. She proceeded to complete her graduate certificate in ABA and became a BCBA in November 2020. Amanda has a passion for behavior reduction, tolerance training and functional communication training. She enjoys spending as much time as she can with her 3 children and husband. When she’s not working, Amanda is very involved in her local Pop Warner Cheerleading program where she is the Assistant Cheer Director and a head coach.

Becky Fronheiser

Operations Director

Arizona

Becky has worked in behavioral health for 7 years. She joined Cardinal in the spring of 2024.  Becky is grateful for the opportunity to work with such a passionate group of people and looks forward to supporting families with their specific ABA needs.  In her personal time, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband, 6 kids and 4 grandkids and loves to travel and relax on the beach.

Matthew Wilkinson

Operations Director

Cary, NC

Matthew holds a bachelors degree from the University of Utah, Medical Degree from the Autonomous University of Guadalajara and an MBA from Western Governors University. He has worked in the pediatric field for the majority of his professional life and has a passion for helping bring the best care to children in need. He enjoys spending time with his wife and three children and day trips to the coast.

 

Trisha Iannotta Bieszczad, PsyD., BCBA

Triad, NC

Trisha is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with extensive expertise since 2016 in applying behavior analytic principles to improve the lives of children and adolescents. Her professional journey began with a doctoral degree in clinical psychology, emphasizing child and adolescent development. This foundation has equipped her with a deep understanding of psychological theories and practices, which she seamlessly integrates into her work as a BCBA. Outside of her professional endeavors, Trisha enjoys reading, spending time outdoors with her family & trying out new restaurants. Trisha’s dedication to both her career and personal interests reflects her commitment to continual growth and enrichment, both professionally and personally. Her multifaceted background allows her to approach each aspect of her life with a blend of expertise, enthusiasm, and a genuine appreciation for learning and exploration.

Tina Lee

Director of Finance

Tina Lee is the Finance Director for Cardinal with a variety of experience in the Healthcare Industry for over 13 years. She is compassionate and always eager to assist where she can. In the ever-changing Healthcare environment, Tina has played a vital role in putting processes in place to obtain high efficiency outcomes to help our clients get the care they need. Tina enjoys the outdoors and loves spending time with her family.

William Evans

Director of Outreach and Recruitment

William is a UNCW Graduate who started his professional career working in Marketing and Recruiting for a local technology company before looking for an opportunity to take those skills and help others. In his spare time he plays hockey, including annually for the North Carolina Autism Hockey Tournament, which is dedicated to the raising money and awareness for organizations helping local families with children diagnosed with autism.

Alice Okamoto, MA, BCBA, LBA

Chief of Staff

Alice has been with Cardinal for over 4 years and has worn many hats along the way!  Alice has a passion for working with clients and families as a unit, supervising behavior analyst trainees, and collaborating on strategic initiatives to ensure clinical efficiencies.  Alice‘s professional experience began with ABA in a school setting, and has worked in schools, homes, and clinics throughout the years while enjoying collaboration with related providers.  In her free time, Alice enjoys traveling, exploring parks with her dog, Oliver, and trying new restaurants. 

Darrin Miller

CEO

Darrin has dedicated his education and career to the field of behavioral health. As a licensed therapist and master’s in clinical counseling he works to create solutions that improve the lives of those impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder at a local, state, and national level. He strives to create a culture of caring and empathy while innovating solutions for improving families’ access to quality care as quickly as possible.