Mission & Philosophy
At SEAS, our mission is to provide compassionate, high-quality ABA services that empower children to grow with confidence and independence.
We believe every child is unique, and every family brings its own strengths and challenges. That’s why we take a personalized approach to care, creating individualized treatment plans that are not only effective but practical for families to implement at home.
We recognize that progress happens through teamwork. Our commitment to collaboration includes regular communication and coordination with parents, teachers, and other professionals involved in your child’s care. We offer training and support to ensure parents feel confident and equipped as active members of their child’s team.
At SEAS, we know that meaningful progress is built on strong partnerships and consistent, evidence-based care. Together, we help your child thrive and become their best self.
Locations
The Cove
Located at 2765 Richmond Hwy, Suite 105, Stafford VA 22554, The Cove provides compassionate, play-based early intervention services designed to help young children build strong communication, social, and foundational learning skills. Our team uses individualized ABA therapy in a nurturing, child-centered environment that encourages curiosity, confidence, and connection through play. Families are supported every step of the way as we work together to promote growth across home, school, and community settings.
The Reef
Located at 2761 Richmond Hwy, Suite 105, Stafford, VA 22554, The Reef provides individualized ABA therapy for children of all ages, providing the same compassionate, play-based approach for our early learners as at The Cove, but also emphasizing independence through real-world learning, such as self-care routines, meal preparation, safety awareness, and community participation for our older learners. The Reef supports children in gaining confidence, building friendships, and developing the practical life skills they need to thrive at home, school, and beyond.
Meet the Crew Behind the Waves
Krystal Edmonds, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA Founder & Visionary Director
Krystal Edmonds, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA Founder & Visionary Director
Krystal Edmonds, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA Founder & Visionary Director
Krystal began her journey in the field of behavior analysis after earning her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2011. She discovered her passion for ABA while working at a small school in Richmond, VA, which inspired her to pursue formal training through the Florida Institute of Technology.
After g
Krystal began her journey in the field of behavior analysis after earning her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2011. She discovered her passion for ABA while working at a small school in Richmond, VA, which inspired her to pursue formal training through the Florida Institute of Technology.
After gaining experience as a BCaBA, Krystal advanced her education at Arizona State University, where she earned a Master’s degree in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis. She became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2016 and is licensed by the Virginia Board of Medicine.
In 2018, Krystal founded SEAS with a clear vision: to provide high-quality, ethical ABA services to families while cultivating a supportive and welcoming environment for team members. Her approach is rooted in compassion, clinical excellence, and collaboration—ensuring that both clients and staff feel valued, empowered, and respected.
Jessie Welch, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA Executive Director
Krystal Edmonds, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA Founder & Visionary Director
Krystal Edmonds, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA Founder & Visionary Director
Jessie attended JMU and received a bachelors degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in 2016, then her M.A.T. in Inclusive Early Childhood Education in 2017. During her time in graduate school, she realized her passion was geared towards working 1:1 with children instead of the classroom. Jessie learned about a Behavior Specialist program th
Jessie attended JMU and received a bachelors degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in 2016, then her M.A.T. in Inclusive Early Childhood Education in 2017. During her time in graduate school, she realized her passion was geared towards working 1:1 with children instead of the classroom. Jessie learned about a Behavior Specialist program that JMU offered, which she pursued and received her M.Ed. in Special Education with an ABA concentration in 2018. She became certified as a BCBA in August 2019.
Caitlin Ratliff, M.A., BCBA, LBA. Reef Clinical Director
Krystal Edmonds, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA Founder & Visionary Director
Kenna Nelson, M.A., BCBA, LBA Cove Clinical Director
Caitlin received an undergraduate degree in Child Development from Liberty University in 2016. She has always had a passion for working with children and finding the "uniqueness" in each child. It was not until starting a career in ABA that she found her calling. After earning her RBT certification in 2016, she went on to pursue an M.A in
Caitlin received an undergraduate degree in Child Development from Liberty University in 2016. She has always had a passion for working with children and finding the "uniqueness" in each child. It was not until starting a career in ABA that she found her calling. After earning her RBT certification in 2016, she went on to pursue an M.A in Applied Behavioral analysis from Ball State University in 2018. Following her degree completion, she became certified as a BCBA in 2019.
Kenna Nelson, M.A., BCBA, LBA Cove Clinical Director
Kenna Nelson, M.A., BCBA, LBA Cove Clinical Director
Kenna Nelson, M.A., BCBA, LBA Cove Clinical Director
Kenna received her undergraduate degree from California State University, Sacramento and her graduate degree from National University. Kenna has been certified as a BCBA since 2008. She has been working with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder since 2003. Kenna has practiced behavior analysis in multiple states and overseas i
Kenna received her undergraduate degree from California State University, Sacramento and her graduate degree from National University. Kenna has been certified as a BCBA since 2008. She has been working with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder since 2003. Kenna has practiced behavior analysis in multiple states and overseas in Japan, becoming the first TriCare approved BCBA on the island of Okinawa. She plans to continue doing ABA for as long as possible.
Kayleigh Rasnick, M.A., BCBA, LBA Director of Services and Training
Kenna Nelson, M.A., BCBA, LBA Cove Clinical Director
Kayleigh Rasnick, M.A., BCBA, LBA Director of Services and Training
Kayleigh completed her Bachelor's at UMW in 2016. She began her career focusing on community outreach, parent training and small group therapy sessions. This is where she found her interest in ABA! During her five years of providing in home ABA, she completed her coursework to be a BCaBA and received her certificate in 2020. She decided t
Kayleigh completed her Bachelor's at UMW in 2016. She began her career focusing on community outreach, parent training and small group therapy sessions. This is where she found her interest in ABA! During her five years of providing in home ABA, she completed her coursework to be a BCaBA and received her certificate in 2020. She decided to go back to school to get her masters and BCBA certificate in 2021 with Florida Institute of Technology.
Richard Abel, M.A., BCBA, LBA Clinical Supervisor
Kenna Nelson, M.A., BCBA, LBA Cove Clinical Director
Kayleigh Rasnick, M.A., BCBA, LBA Director of Services and Training
Richard has been working in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis since 2021, supporting clients from ages 2 to 22. He holds a Master's degree in ABA and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.
Richard is committed to providing individualized, evidence-based services that promote meaningful skill development, independence, and long-term su
Richard has been working in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis since 2021, supporting clients from ages 2 to 22. He holds a Master's degree in ABA and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.
Richard is committed to providing individualized, evidence-based services that promote meaningful skill development, independence, and long-term success for the individuals and families he serves. In his free time, he enjoys playing guitar, singing, spending time with his wife, and playing with their dogs.
La Deesha Hill, M.S., BCBA, LBA Clinical Supervisor
La Deesha Hill, M.S., BCBA, LBA Clinical Supervisor
La Deesha Hill, M.S., BCBA, LBA Clinical Supervisor
La Deesha “Dee Dee” discovered her passion for working with children with disabilities quite unexpectedly. While completing her undergraduate practicum in 2004, she believed she was reporting to a traditional daycare center in New Jersey. Upon arrival, she learned the program served children with a variety of disabilities, a population s
La Deesha “Dee Dee” discovered her passion for working with children with disabilities quite unexpectedly. While completing her undergraduate practicum in 2004, she believed she was reporting to a traditional daycare center in New Jersey. Upon arrival, she learned the program served children with a variety of disabilities, a population she had never worked with before. Initially unsure if it was the right fit, Dee Dee planned to leave after a week. That week turned into two weeks, then a month, and ultimately a rewarding career spanning more than 20 years.
Throughout her career, Dee Dee has been inspired by the incredible potential of individuals with disabilities to lead meaningful, socially fulfilling lives. Her dedication to helping children and families achieve their goals has remained the driving force behind her professional journey.
Dee Dee earned her Master of Science in Special Education from National University in 2012 and completed her Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification in 2025 after several years of focused study and clinical experience. She also completed her BCBA verified course sequence through the Florida Institute of Technology.
Her experience includes working in both public and non-public school settings across New Jersey, Virginia, and California. She began her career as a classroom aide in a specialized school for children with special needs and later transitioned into Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services in 2015, providing support in home and clinic settings. After serving as a BCBA with another organization, Dee Dee joined SEAS in May 2026.
Beyond her professional experience, Dee Dee brings a unique personal perspective to her work as the mother of three sons. Her middle son is on the autism spectrum, allowing her to connect deeply with the families she serves. She values the partnership between professionals and caregivers and understands firsthand the impact that compassionate, evidence-based support can have on a child's development and a family's quality of life.
Dee Dee's professional interests include behavior pharmacology and feeding challenges, and she is passionate about helping children build skills that increase independence, confidence, and overall quality of life.
Kaitlyn Cloherty, M.S., BCBA, LBA Clinical Supervisor
La Deesha Hill, M.S., BCBA, LBA Clinical Supervisor
La Deesha Hill, M.S., BCBA, LBA Clinical Supervisor
Lauren Hairston, M.A. Cove Services Coordinator
La Deesha Hill, M.S., BCBA, LBA Clinical Supervisor
Lauren Hairston, M.A. Cove Services Coordinator
Lauren earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from GMU in 2017. While completing her undergraduate studies, she worked with a family whose son had Autism, sparking her interest in ABA. In 2019, Lauren joined SEAS and became an RBT. Her experiences in the field, along with her ongoing work with the same family, further deepened her pas
Lauren earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from GMU in 2017. While completing her undergraduate studies, she worked with a family whose son had Autism, sparking her interest in ABA. In 2019, Lauren joined SEAS and became an RBT. Her experiences in the field, along with her ongoing work with the same family, further deepened her passion for supporting children with diverse needs. Motivated to expand her knowledge and impact, Lauren pursued her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from BSU graduating in 2024. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, ethical, and individualized services that promote meaningful growth and positive outcomes for every child and family she works with.
Devin Dunbar Trainer
Shelby Hinson Reef Services Coordinator
Lauren Hairston, M.A. Cove Services Coordinator
Devin has been a dedicated member of the SEAS team for several years, providing exceptional training and support to staff while helping uphold the high standards of care our families know and trust. She has always loved working with children, and when she was introduced to the field of Applied Behavior Analysis, she fell in love not only
Devin has been a dedicated member of the SEAS team for several years, providing exceptional training and support to staff while helping uphold the high standards of care our families know and trust. She has always loved working with children, and when she was introduced to the field of Applied Behavior Analysis, she fell in love not only with the science but also with the children it serves. Devin continues to show a true passion for learning, growing, and deepening her expertise in ABA, making her an invaluable part of the SEAS family.
Robert Kingsley, B.S. Trainer
Shelby Hinson Reef Services Coordinator
Shelby Hinson Reef Services Coordinator
Robert completed his Bachelor’s at University of Mary Washington in 2015 and has provided behavioral and educational supports to children and young adults since 2017. In his free time, he enjoys writing and reading with his dogs as pillows.
Shelby Hinson Reef Services Coordinator
Shelby Hinson Reef Services Coordinator
Shelby Hinson Reef Services Coordinator
Shelby is dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities across a variety of settings. Most of her experience has been as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), where she has worked closely with children and families to promote meaningful skill development and positive outcomes. She has also provided direct support services to adu
Shelby is dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities across a variety of settings. Most of her experience has been as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), where she has worked closely with children and families to promote meaningful skill development and positive outcomes. She has also provided direct support services to adults with disabilities, helping individuals build independence, develop daily living skills, and actively participate in their communities.
As the Services Coordinator at SEAS, Shelby plays an important role in supporting both clients and team members. She facilitates monthly ethics reviews for staff, promotes best practices, and helps foster a culture of ongoing learning and professional growth throughout the organization.
Committed to lifelong learning, Shelby earned her Associate of Arts in Psychology from Germanna Community College in Spring 2025. She is currently pursuing both her bachelor's and master's degrees through an accelerated online program at Mary Baldwin University, focusing on Applied Behavior Analysis, Autism Studies, and Psychology.
Shelby is passionate about supporting individuals with diverse needs and advancing the field of behavior analysis. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, ethical, and evidence-based services while helping create positive outcomes for the children, families, and professionals she serves.
Maliyah Watie, B.A. Client Care & Office Manager
Anita Magee Scheduling & Administrative Coordinator
Anita Magee Scheduling & Administrative Coordinator
Maliyah received her BA degree in Psychology from ASU in 2023. With her mom being a teacher, she has been around children of all ages for most of her life. She previously worked as an instructional assistant at an elementary school for two years helping teachers and staff with administrative tasks as well as supervising kids. She now has
Maliyah received her BA degree in Psychology from ASU in 2023. With her mom being a teacher, she has been around children of all ages for most of her life. She previously worked as an instructional assistant at an elementary school for two years helping teachers and staff with administrative tasks as well as supervising kids. She now has plans to attend graduate school to earn her Master's degree with hopes of becoming a licensed professional counselor in the future.
Anita Magee Scheduling & Administrative Coordinator
Anita Magee Scheduling & Administrative Coordinator
Anita Magee Scheduling & Administrative Coordinator
Anita is an experienced administrative professional dedicated to supporting SEAS through exceptional organization, communication, and operational excellence. With a strong background in office administration, client support, scheduling, and practice coordination, she plays a vital role in ensuring smooth daily operations for clients, fami
Anita is an experienced administrative professional dedicated to supporting SEAS through exceptional organization, communication, and operational excellence. With a strong background in office administration, client support, scheduling, and practice coordination, she plays a vital role in ensuring smooth daily operations for clients, families, and clinical staff.
Known for attention to detail and a compassionate, service-oriented approach, Anita helps create a welcoming and efficient experience for everyone interacting with the organization. Anita is committed to supporting the mission of improving the lives of individuals and families through accessible, client-centered ABA services.
Outside of work, Anita enjoys spending time with family, friends, and visiting our local museums and national parks.
Jourdyn Anderson, B.S. Administrative Assistant
Anita Magee Scheduling & Administrative Coordinator
Ariela Walker, Resource and Media Coordinator
Jourdyn earned her Bachelor's degree in Human Services with a concentration in Child and Family Services in January of 2026. Jourdyn has years of experience working with kids, formerly working as a medical assistant of more than seven years and an administrative assistant for two years. She plans to attend SNHU to get her Master's in Psyc
Jourdyn earned her Bachelor's degree in Human Services with a concentration in Child and Family Services in January of 2026. Jourdyn has years of experience working with kids, formerly working as a medical assistant of more than seven years and an administrative assistant for two years. She plans to attend SNHU to get her Master's in Psychology with a concentration in Child and Developmental Psychology.
Ariela Walker, Resource and Media Coordinator
Anna Kelly, M.S. Social Skills Assistant
Ariela Walker, Resource and Media Coordinator
Ariela is a Level IV RBT and the Resource & Media Coordinator at Stafford Early Autism Services. Passionate about ABA, teamwork and positivity, she also shines as the Sunshine Coordinator spreading cheer, organizing surprises, and keeping the workplace bright and motivating for everyone.
Morgan Lucas, Social Skills Assistant
Anna Kelly, M.S. Social Skills Assistant
Anna Kelly, M.S. Social Skills Assistant
Morgan has been a vital part of SEAS for 2 years. As a social skills assistant she has been dedicated to helping children develop communication, cooperation, and emotional regulation skills. She is passionate about creating supportive, engaging activities that promote healthy social development.
Anna Kelly, M.S. Social Skills Assistant
Anna Kelly, M.S. Social Skills Assistant
Anna Kelly, M.S. Social Skills Assistant
Anna received her Master’s in Human Factors from GMU and is currently enrolled in an ABA master’s program at FIT in pursuit of becoming a BCBA. She has been working in ABA since graduating with her Bachelor’s in 2022 and has loved being a part of the learning journey the clients are making towards their goals and supporting them along the way!
Liberty the Therapy Dog
Liberty the Therapy Dog
Liberty the Therapy Dog
Liberty is SEAS' therapy dog! As the only four legged employee, she joins the team at the office a few days a week and enjoys helping the kids build their social skills, work on taking turns, asking to pet/play, accepting “no” and more! Her friendly Golden Retriever personality makes the clinic an even more lively place, and brings endles
Liberty is SEAS' therapy dog! As the only four legged employee, she joins the team at the office a few days a week and enjoys helping the kids build their social skills, work on taking turns, asking to pet/play, accepting “no” and more! Her friendly Golden Retriever personality makes the clinic an even more lively place, and brings endless joy to the kids. On her work from home days and weekends, she loves to take naps by the window, get belly rubs, and go hiking.