Melissa K. Burkhardt, M.S. Ed., BCBA

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.

Her dedication has been recognized at the national level. In 2019, she was named Service Provider of the Year by the Community Inclusion Awards. She is also the national award-winning author of Exceptionally Good Friends: Building Relationships with Autism, a book that promotes understanding and inclusion.

Beyond her work at Early Start Autism, Melissa is deeply involved in advocacy and community outreach. She partners with the nonprofit My Allie’s Place to offer a Parent Coaching Scholarship, serves on the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) Little Owls Advisory Board, and dedicated 10 years as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children.

Melissa considers it a privilege for her and the Early Start team to support families of young children with autism and behavioral challenges. Melissa feels incredibly blessed to work alongside the dedicated, knowledgeable, and outstanding Early Start team, all of whom share her commitment to excellence and meaningful impact.

Melissa was named 2019 Community Inclusion Awards Service Provider of the Year.