Meet our Team

Melissa K. Burkhardt founded Early Start Autism in 2014 and brings over 25 years of hands-on experience working with young children with autism, behavioral challenges, and their families. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and an Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) certified therapist with a deep commitment to providing the highest quality of developmental, compassionate ABA therapy based on the most recent research.

As of March 2025, Melissa is one of only 10 ESDM therapists in Florida and one of 26 worldwide certified in Parent Coaching in ESDM (P-ESDM). She trained under Dr. Sally Rogers, co-founder of the ESDM, and her colleagues at the UC Davis MIND Institute, further strengthening her expertise in evidence-based interventions.

Melissa has an extensive background in special needs preschool education with a focus on inclusive learning environments. She is a certified reading specialist, an Exceptional Student Education (ESE) teacher, and Montessori-trained, bringing a well-rounded, developmental approach to her work.

Melissa is considered an expert in the field of early intervention and has been invited to share her knowledge through statewide trainings for the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD). She has also presented for Cigna Insurance’s Autism Expert Series, as well as other webinars and presentations nationwide, furthering education and advocacy for effective early intervention strategies.

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Em Lazott is a dedicated Clinical Support Specialist at Early Start, where she oversees the Thrive Program for children ages 6–12. Originally from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Em brings a diverse background in applied behavior analysis and education to her role.

Before relocating to Florida, Em served as a behavior specialist at a residential school for individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome. In 2010, she moved to Key West, Florida, and worked as a social worker for a children and family agency. Her career path led her to Jupiter in 2018, where she taught middle school Exceptional Student Education before becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

Em earned her undergraduate degree in History from Framingham State University and later graduated Magna Cum Laude with a M.S.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of Massachusetts.

Em’s favorite part of working at ESA is the incredible teamwork. In the field of ABA therapy, collaboration is essential—not only for supporting clients but also for helping each other grow as professionals. The continuous learning and knowledge-sharing within the team create an environment where everyone is empowered to do their best work and make a meaningful impact.

When she’s not at work, Em enjoys hiking, backpacking, and working out at Fittown. She also loves playing music and spending quality time with her husband and their pups.

Erin is a dedicated Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) at Early Start Autism, where she is committed to providing high-quality, individualized ABA services with a strong focus on early intervention. Her mission aligns with Early Start’s dedication to delivering compassionate, specialized care that empowers children and their families.

Erin began her career in 2021 as an RBT and Student Analyst, transitioning from teaching special education into full-time Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. With over seven years of teaching experience, she brings a deep understanding of child development and learning to her work. She holds a bachelor’s degree in special education from Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) and a master’s degree in education with a focus on ABA from the University of Cincinnati.

Passionate about creating lasting, positive behavior change, Erin is dedicated to providing individualized support that helps families lead high-quality, fulfilling lives. She believes in empowering families with the tools and strategies they need to support their child’s growth.

“I love working at Early Start Autism because of our commitment to truly individualized, high-quality ABA services for young learners. This company not only prioritizes early intervention and family collaboration but also invests in molding highly trained professionals, ensuring our team is equipped to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the families we serve.”

Georgette Hugger has been a dedicated educator since 1981, with a diverse career that spans roles such as Teacher Assistant, Teacher, Teacher Mentor, Director, Social Emotional Learning expert, Parent and Child Teacher/Trainer, Registered Behavior Technician, and currently, Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst. A lifelong learner, Georgette is deeply passionate about working with young children and continuously seeks opportunities to expand her knowledge and skills.

Georgette holds a B.S. in Elementary Education from St. Thomas Aquinas College, a Master of Science in Elementary Education with a Specialization in Early Childhood from Long Island University, and an additional 60 graduate credits in Literacy and Computer Technology from institutions such as Adelphi University, NY Institute of Technology, and Hunter College. She also earned a Certificate in ABA from the Florida Institute of Technology.

Over the years, Georgette has taught a range of grades, including PK3, PK4, Kindergarten, and 1st grade, and served as a Resource Room Teacher in private, public, charter, and parochial schools across New York and Palm Beach County, Florida. She also served as the Director of the Sylvan Learning Center in Jupiter for four years and was a Conscious Discipline Certified Instructor for 4.5 years.

Since joining Early Start Autism in February 2018, Georgette has found her work to be both the most challenging and the most rewarding of her career. She is committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of the children she serves. Guided by Early Start Therapy’s founder, Melissa Burkhardt, M.S.Ed., BCBA, Georgette proudly provides the latest research-based ABA therapy, ensuring the highest level of care for her clients.

She works alongside a team of compassionate, knowledgeable, and dedicated therapists who share her commitment to the well-being of the children. For Georgette, Early Start Autism is more than just a workplace—it’s a “second home.”

Georgette looks forward to continuing her service to the families of Early Start Autism for many years to come.

Carli graduated in 2025 from Florida Atlantic University with a master’s degree in Special Education, concentrating in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). She also holds an undergraduate degree in Public Health and Psychology from Salisbury University. Carli has been working with children since 2016, when she earned her 90-hour childcare certificate in Maryland and began teaching in preschools. She is currently preparing to sit for the BCBA exam.

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Carli has actively championed the needs of autistic learners. She has been a featured speaker at events hosted by FAU CARD and FABA, as well as the 31st Annual Statewide CARD Conference in 2024, where she continues to amplify the voices of those she serves.

As a Lead RBT, Carli takes pride in fostering meaningful, long-term connections with learners and their families. She firmly believes that these relationships are fundamental to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care that supports each individual’s unique growth and development.

Carli is proud to be part of the ESA team, where she contributes to making a lasting impact by delivering high-quality, ethical, and compassionate ABA therapy to learners and their families.

Tommi Roberts is a dedicated professional with a Bachelor’s degree in Health Education and Behavior and a Master’s degree in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology from the University of Florida, where she graduated Cum Laude. Currently serving as a Lead RBT and Student Analyst, Tommi is actively pursuing certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) through the Florida Institute of Technology (FIT).

With a strong passion for implementing evidence-based interventions, Tommi focuses on early intervention, parent training, and specialized support for individuals with autism. She is committed to utilizing effective strategies and personalized approaches in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to create meaningful, lasting change for the children and families she serves.

Tommi’s expertise in implementing interventions and guiding families makes her a valuable asset in the field. She is driven by a desire to empower individuals to reach their full potential and considers it a privilege to be part of their journey toward growth and success.

“I love being part of the Early Start team because our collaborative environment allows us to combine our expertise, support each other, and work together to create meaningful progress in each child’s development.”

Jeannineda Saint Hubert is passionate about advocating for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Integrated General Studies from the University of Central Florida, where she discovered her love for applied behavior analysis (ABA) during her senior year. This revelation led her to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) at Early Start Autism, where she has the privilege of making a direct impact on the lives of individuals with autism through ABA interventions. Jeannineda loves being part of the Early Start Autism team because of their commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care to their learners.

Jeannineda recently earned her master’s degree in Special Education with a concentration in applied behavior analysis from Florida Atlantic University. With her advanced education and hands-on experience, she is more committed than ever to becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Her journey is fueled by a deep dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with exceptional needs, and she is excited to continue creating positive, lasting impact through her work.