Guiding Neurodivergent Individuals Through Personalized Support and Inclusive Care

Hi! I’m Sarah Powell.

Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

I earned my master’s degree in Experiential Education from Minnesota State University and began my journey in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in 2010 as an instructional aide at an autism center with the Santa Cruz County Office of Education. During that time, I completed my certificate in ABA from the University of Cincinnati and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2014.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked as a Behavior Analyst in both home- and center-based programs, as well as within the field of special education. I’m passionate about training caregivers and educators, and I find immense joy in mentoring others to help them reach their full potential.

As a neurodivergent person myself, living with dyslexia, I bring a unique perspective to my work. I understand firsthand the challenges of navigating a world that isn’t always designed for those who learn and develop differently. This personal experience fuels my dedication to creating meaningful, inclusive, and effective support for individuals and their families.

I Help Caregivers and Educators Create Pathways to Empower Neurodivergent Growth and Success.

My purpose is to help neurodivergent communities and individuals thrive through personalized and respectful care that creates pathways to empowerment, independence and autonomy.

I work with you to create meaningful pathways toward empowerment, independence, and autonomy. At Neuropaths Behavioral Solutions (NPBS), my approach isn’t just about providing behavioral analytic services—it’s about partnering with you to develop personalized strategies that truly support neurodivergent individuals.

Through training, coaching, and mentoring, I collaborate with caregivers, paraprofessionals, and teachers to build the skills and confidence needed to foster growth and self-sufficiency. By working together, we create individualized solutions that respect the unique needs of each person and ensure lasting success.

As awareness of neurodivergence grows, so does the need for services that go beyond traditional therapy models. I am here to guide and support you with evidence-based strategies that empower both individuals and their support networks. Let’s work together to build a future focused on strengths, possibilities, and meaningful progress.

How I Work with You – Individualized Services

Through our partnership, we’ll create practical, meaningful solutions that empower you and those you support to thrive. By focusing on individualized strategies, we work toward a future where independence, confidence, and growth are achievable for everyone.

A Personalized Approach for Every Individual

I work with you to develop a personalized approach that respects the unique strengths and challenges of each neurodivergent individual. At Neuropaths Behavioral Solutions (NPBS), I understand that no two journeys are the same. This is why my consulting approach is flexible, inclusive, and tailored to your specific needs.

Building Trust Through Open Communication

Open and honest communication is at the heart of my work. I actively listen to your experiences, insights, and goals to create a supportive environment built on trust and collaboration. By working together, we develop strategies that truly align with your needs—whether that means creating structured routines, implementing sensory accommodations, or refining daily interactions to foster independence, we will do this together.

Embracing Neurodiversity with Respect and Empathy

I recognize the diverse ways neurodivergent individuals experience the world, and I embrace these differences with respect and empathy. My goal is to ensure that you feel heard, valued, and supported as we navigate this journey together. Through our partnership, we’ll create practical, meaningful solutions that empower you and those you support to thrive.

FAQs General

  • Neurodivergent is a term used to describe people whose brains process information in a way that is different from what is considered typical.

  • Neurotypical refers to individuals whose brain functions, cognitive processing, and behaviors align with what is considered the standard or typical neurological development in society.

    Key Points About Neurotypicality:

    • Often used to describe people who do not have neurological differences such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or other forms of neurodivergence.

    • It does not necessarily mean a person has no mental health challenges; rather, it means their brain functions in a way that aligns with societal expectations.

    • The term is commonly used in contrast to neurodivergent to highlight differences in thinking, learning, and processing the world.

    Example:

    • A neurotypical person may find it easy to maintain eye contact during conversations, while a neurodivergent person might find it uncomfortable or overwhelming.

  • The terms neurodivergent and neurodivergence are related but have distinct meanings.

    Neurodivergent (Adjective)

    • Describes an individual whose brain functions differently from what is considered "typical" (or neurotypical).

    • It is often used to refer to people with conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette's syndrome, and other cognitive variations.

    • Example: She is neurodivergent because she has ADHD and experiences the world differently than neurotypical people.

    Neurodivergence (Noun)

    • Refers to the state or condition of having a brain that functions in a way that diverges from the typical or expected norm.

    • It is a broader concept that encompasses the diversity of different cognitive styles and ways of thinking.

    • Example: Neurodivergence includes a wide range of cognitive differences, such as autism and dyslexia.

    Key Difference

    • Neurodivergent describes a person.

    • Neurodivergence refers to the overall concept of having a different cognitive functioning style.

  • Neurodivergence is a way to describe people using words other than "normal" and "abnormal." It's not a medical diagnosis, but rather a care philosophy that aims to increase acceptance and inclusion of people with neurological differences.

  • Conditions that can be classified as neurodivergent include:

    • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

    • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

    • Learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, and dyspraxia

    • Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders

    • Sensory processing issues

    • Mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and anxiety disorders

  • People who are neurodivergent may have different strengths, such as:

    • Better memory

    • Ability to mentally picture three-dimensional (3D) objects easily

    • Ability to solve complex mathematical calculations in their head

    • Greater attention to detail

    • Creativity

    • Out-of-the-box thinking

    • Ability to focus intensely

    • Highly observant

    • Pattern recognition

    • Enthusiasm

    • We do not work with insurance

    • Private payment will be based on agreed upon hourly rate or individualized treatment package plan

Understanding Behavior Analysis

  • What is behavior analysis? 

    It’s the scientific study of behavior, focusing on understanding why people act the way they do, how behavior can be changed, and how to prevent certain behaviors by utilizing principles of learning theory to improve an individual's quality of life.

    How can it help neurodivergent individuals? 

    It enhances skills like communication, social interaction, and daily living while fostering independence.  

    Who provides these services? 

    Qualified professionals, called Behavior Analysts (or BCBA), deliver these services.  

    Who Benefits from Behavior Analytic Services?  

    These services help anyone facing challenges with:  

    • Communication  

    • Social interactions  

    • Daily life skills  

    • Challenging behaviors  

    They are especially helpful for neurodivergent individuals, like those with autism or ADHD, and people of all ages seeking developmental or behavioral support.

    What is a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)?

    It is a process used to figure out why a behavior happens. Behavior Analysts gather information through interviews, observations, and data analysis to find the cause or purpose of the behavior. This knowledge helps create effective strategies to address and improve behavior.

    Are these services only for kids?

    No, they’re for all ages and help address challenges throughout life.  

    How do they improve behavior? 

    Behavior Analysts replace challenging behaviors with positive skills and create structure through routines.

Behavior Analysts in Schools (IEPs/BIPs)

  • What do Behavior Analysts do in schools? 

    They help create and monitor education plans (IEPs/BIPs) for students with special needs.  

    How can caregivers help with school plans?

    Caregivers can share insights, follow strategies at home, and attend meetings.  

    What if a school plan isn’t working?

    Ask for a plan review to make adjustments based on the child’s needs.

How NPBS Is Supporting Caregivers & Educators

  • How are caregivers supported?

    Caregivers get support through:  

    • Training: Learning strategies to manage behaviors and build skills.  

    • Collaboration: Working with Caregivers to ensure consistent approaches.  

    • Tools: Using resources like visual schedules and behavior plans.  

    • Feedback: Regular updates and adjustments based on progress.  

    This helps caregivers feel confident and prepared to assist effectively.


    How Are Educators Supported?

    Educators are supported through:

    • Training: Learning strategies to manage classroom behaviors and support student learning.

    • Collaboration: Working with Educators to develop consistent behavior plans and interventions.

    • Tools: Access to resources like visual schedules, token systems, and skill-building strategies for the classroom.

    • Feedback: Regular guidance and adjustments to strategies based on student progress.

    This equips educators with skills and resources to create a positive learning environment.

Let’s Get Started Today!

Contact me for a free 30-minute information call. 

What to expect:

  • Listening to your needs and challenges

  • Discuss my approach and how it may fit your needs

  • Schedule first session to start on plan

In this free 30-minute consultation, we’ll explore your unique needs and goals to determine how I can best support you. Whether you’re a caregiver, paraprofessional, or teacher, we’ll discuss the challenges you face and the outcomes you hope to achieve. I’ll provide an overview of my approach to behavioral analytic services and share how personalized training, coaching, and mentoring can empower you to create meaningful progress toward greater independence and autonomy for neurodivergent individuals. This is an opportunity to ask questions, gain clarity, and see if we’re a good fit to work together.