Meet Our Team
Our team at Nurturing Nests represents the gold standard in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. Each member brings unique expertise, extensive training, and a shared commitment to empowering individuals and families through personalized, ethical care. From Board-Certified Behavior Analysts to specialized support professionals, every team member is united in our mission to help clients achieve independence and meaningful growth.
Sareen Nersis, M.S., BCBA
Bio
Sareen Nersis is a dedicated Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with a deep-rooted passion for supporting individuals and families through compassionate, evidence-based care. She began her career in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) as a Behavior Technician in 2012, where she discovered the life-changing potential of individualized behavioral support.
 After obtaining her BCBA certification in 2017, Sareen stepped into a leadership role as a Program Supervisor, guiding clinical teams and helping families navigate complex challenges with empathy, integrity, and clinical excellence.
 In 2021, fueled by a desire to create a more supportive and heart-centered space for both families and clinicians, Sareen founded Nurturing Nests Therapy Center, Inc. Her vision was to build a values-driven agency grounded in individualized care, cultural sensitivity, and unwavering ethical standards—a place where children receive the highest quality support and providers feel truly seen, supported, and inspired in their work.
 Throughout her career, Sareen has worked with individuals across a wide range of diagnoses, developmental levels, and cultural backgrounds. She has provided ABA services in homes, schools, and community settings, always tailoring her approach to meet the unique needs of each child and family.
Education
- Florida Institute of Technology – Behavior Analyst Certification
- California Lutheran University – M.S. in Clinical Psychology
- University of California, Irvine – B.A. in Psychology
License
Board Certified Behavior Analyst: #1-17-26956
Languages Spoken
- English
- Armenian
Pierre Diaz, M.Ed., BCBA
Bio
Pierre Diaz is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with a strong passion for the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). He began his career in ABA in 2013 and became a BCBA in 2016. Pierre has progressed through various roles including Behavior Technician, Program Supervisor, and mentor, guiding the development of future Behavior Analysts.
Over the years, Pierre has delivered services across a wide range of settings—including preschools, elementary and high schools, in-home environments, and clinic-based programs. He is deeply committed to the belief that every client and family deserves access to the most effective treatment possible, and he approaches his work with a strong sense of responsibility to uphold that standard.
Education
- Arizona State University – M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction (Applied Behavior Analysis)
- California State University, Northridge – B.A. in Child and Adolescent Development
License
Board Certified Behavior Analyst:Â #1-16-23826
Languages Spoken
- English
- Spanish
Lora N. Touloumdjian, Esq.
Bio
Lora N. Touloumdjian joined Nurturing Nests Therapy Center in 2023 as Employee Relations Manager, bringing with her a strong legal background and passion for child and family advocacy. She began her legal career in 2015 after earning her Juris Doctorate from Whittier Law School and has practiced family law for over eight years.
During law school, Lora advocated for children with special needs through Whittier’s Special Education Children’s Clinic. Prior to that, she earned her B.A. in International Studies from UC Irvine and studied abroad at Copenhagen Business School. At Nurturing Nests, she now combines her legal expertise with a heart for community care, supporting positive relations between staff, clients, and families.
Education
- Whittier Law School – Juris Doctorate
- University of California, Irvine – B.A. in International Studies
- Copenhagen Business School – Study Abroad Program
Bar Admission & Memberships
- Admitted to practice law in California and the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California
- Member of the Beverly Hills Bar Association
- Member of the Armenian Bar Association
Languages Spoken
- English
- Armenian
Jasmin Ciceu, M.A.
Bio
Jasmin Ciceu is a dedicated and experienced professional with a Master of Arts in Special Education, specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). She began her career in 2016 as a Behavior Technician, providing individualized interventions for clients with diverse needs. Motivated by a passion for making a meaningful impact, she advanced her expertise by training under Board Certified Behavior Analysts to deepen her clinical knowledge.
Currently serving as a Client Service Administrator, Jasmin integrates her clinical background with administrative leadership to ensure seamless service coordination. She plays a vital role in fostering clear communication across teams, providing support for the delivery of high-quality care. Jasmin is deeply committed to enhancing client outcomes and creating a positive experience for both families and staff.
Education
- Arizona State University – M.A. in Special Education, emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis
- California State University, San Bernardino – B.A. in Sociology- Social Service
Languages Spoken
- English
- Spanish
Austin Chai, M.S., BCBA
Bio
Austin Chai began his career as a Behavior Technician in 2014, where his passion for supporting students inspired him to deepen his expertise. He earned his M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis and contributed to a research lab focused on supervision and training. Â
In 2020, Austin became a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). As a BCBA, Austin has developed individualized, evidence-based treatment programs across settings such as schools and homes. His expertise includes conducting behavioral assessments, designing intervention plans, and supervising both behavior technicians and future BCBAs. Austin is passionate about mentoring new professionals and advancing standards of care in the ABA field.
Education
- California State University – Northridge – M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
- California State University – Northridge – B.S. in Psychology
License
Board Certified Behavior Analyst:Â # 1-20-42082
Languages Spoken
- English
Dina Nichols, M.A.
Bio
Dina Nichols began her professional journey with Nurturing Nests Therapy Center as a behavior technician in 2022, after graduating from California State University Northridge. Her studies there, along with personal experience, led to a deep interest in applied behavior analysis and inspired her to earn her master’s degree in the field.
After completing her master’s degree, she transitioned to the role of Program Manager in 2025. In her role as Program Manager, Dina focuses on creating supportive, individualized plans that encourage lasting progress and meaningful development. She believes in the power of evidence-based practices and the importance of creating an environment where all individuals can thrive.
Education
- Arizona State University – M.A. in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis
- California State University, Northridge – B.A. in Psychology
Languages Spoken
- English
Sharmaine Francisco, M.S.
Bio
Sharmaine Francisco began her work in the field as a Behavior Technician in 2019, driven by a desire to support meaningful growth and positive change in the lives of others. She earned her B.A. in Psychology from California State University, Northridge in 2023 and went on to complete her Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis from the same university.
As a Program Manager, Sharmaine is committed to collaborating with families and clinical teams to ensure that progress is both meaningful and sustainable. She is passionate about promoting independence and teaching functional skills tailored to each person’s unique goals and developmental needs.
Education
- California State University, Northridge – M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
- California State University, Northridge – B.A. in Psychology
Languages Spoken
- English
Natalia Villatoro, M.A.
Bio
Natalia Villatoro began her professional journey with Nurturing Nests Therapy Center as a Behavior Technician in 2021, after graduating from California State University, Northridge with a degree in Child Development (Applied Developmental Science). Her academic background and hands-on experience working with children inspired her to deepen her training in ABA.
In 2025, after completing her Master’s degree in Special Education (Applied Behavior Analysis) from Arizona State University, Natalia transitioned into the role of Program Manager. In this role, she supports program implementation, staff training, and behavioral data monitoring—always centering the needs of both clients and their families.
Education
- Arizona State University – M.A. in Special Education (Applied Behavior Analysis), 2025
- California State University, Northridge – B.A. in Child Development (Applied Developmental Science), 2021
Languages Spoken
- English
About Nurturing Nests Therapy Center, Inc.
It all begins with a nurturing hand…Nurturing Nests Therapy Center was established to bring profound change to all of the communities and families that we have the pleasure of working with. With over 25 years of combined clinical experience, we have set out to provide the highest quality of services to our clients, by continuously working as a cohesive unit. Across our several years of experience, we have worked with individuals of various diagnoses, needs and backgrounds. We have also been fortunate to have the opportunity to work with and assist individuals with differing cognitive levels, maladaptive behaviors and skill deficits. We are eager to continue on this journey of providing an opportunity for growth and advancement to all whom we cross paths with here at Nurturing Nests Therapy Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ABA therapy and how does it help children with autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based approach that helps improve communication, learning, and social skills while reducing challenging behaviors. Our certified therapists use positive reinforcement strategies to teach new skills and help children across the autism spectrum reach their full potential.
How long does ABA therapy typically last?
Each child's program is uniquely designed based on their specific needs. Treatment duration varies depending on goals, progress, and individual circumstances. Our BCBAs continuously assess and adjust programming to ensure optimal outcomes for every child in our Los Angeles centers.
Do you work with all ages and levels on the autism spectrum?
Yes, our experienced team provides ABA therapy services for children across the autism spectrum at all developmental stages. Our personalized approach ensures that each child receives appropriate interventions tailored to their specific needs and abilities.
How do I know if my insurance covers ABA therapy?
We accept most major insurance plans in the Los Angeles area. Our intake specialists will verify your benefits and explain coverage details before beginning services. We're committed to making quality ABA therapy accessible to all families who need it.
