Spectra Gymnastics

Author: Ron Ludwig

  • Devyn Plisik, BCBA

    Devyn Plisik, BCBA

    Devyn loves this work for so many reasons, but one of things that fills her with joy the most is seeing the joy on a person’s face and body when they do something they have never done before. Whether that is using the toilet, making a new friend, or finally communicating and having someone know exactly what they want, that moment is the best moment!

    Spectra is such a unique facility that creates a safe place for people to move and learn in the way that is best for them while being supported by the most caring staff.

    Devyn’s ABA specialty is social and emotional learning. She loves to incorporate acceptance and commitment therapy into aba to help individuals create psychological flexibility that enables them to navigate the inevitable challenges of life and have the tools to respond to their emotions in a healthy way.

    Outside of the aba world, Devyn loves to paint/color, hike with my partner, kayak with my dog, and binge watch sitcoms.

  • Lindsey Pinnick, Preschool Director

    Lindsey Pinnick, Preschool Director

    Lindsey has been teaching preschool classes since 2011. She emphasizes teaching to the whole child, giving students the opportunity to practice interacting with peers, engaging in independent decision-making, working to regulate emotions, being flexible thinkers, and becoming more resilient. She is a parent of multiple neurodivergent children and knows how life-changing it can be for children to be accepted, understood, and loved in a supportive environment. She is honored to be able to provide this for her students. Spectra has been an exceptional support for her son and she is very excited to be an integral part of the Preschool department and Spectra team.

  • Emily Hargis, BCBA, Executive Director

    Emily Hargis, BCBA, Executive Director

    Emily Hargis is the Executive Director of Spectra and also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

    Emily has been working in the field for over a decade. She has a Bachelors Degree in Science and a Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis. She loves working at Spectra because of our welcoming, inclusive culture and that we are all committed to fostering a community where neurodivergent children, and adults, can thrive.

    In her spare time, Emily is passionate about rescuing dogs and giving them a safe, loving environment to have a second chance at.

  • Karissa Johnson, Owner

    Karissa Johnson, Owner

    Karissa has been teaching in the gymnastics and education industry for more than 20+ years, holds a B.S. in Psychology, and has worked in the field of ABA Therapy since 2008. Karissa is dedicated to providing a variety of inclusive services to her community, which is why Spectra was created. She is also the creator of SpectraAbilities, an industry-leading licensing program for inclusion programs. She is known globally for her work with individuals living with developmental & intellectual disabilities, while remaining actively engaged in increasing awareness of her unique and highly successful practices. Through the journey of Spectra’s growth, Karissa is often called to public speaking engagements, training workshops, consulting, and mentoring other like-minded colleagues.

    “I am passionate about helping others across the globe to implement inclusion programs. I love public speaking, presenting for USA Gymnastics and sharing my knowledge & experience with others who share a similar vision and mission as I do”.