Our Team

Sarah Gearhart, M.Ed, CTP, LBA, BCBA

Founder/Practitioner - Whatcom Co. Provider

Originally from Tennessee, I moved to Washington state in 2016. I began working with children, adolescents and adults of varied abilities through local therapeutic recreation programs when I was a teen and into college. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology (minor in Education & Health), a Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis through the University of Cincinnati, a post-graduate certificate for Women in Leadership through Cornell University I’ve loved working with clients and families through ABA practice for over a decade and love helping others learn the ins/out of the industry through focused mentorship and supervision. Outside of ABA I enjoy spending time with my family, playing ukulele, and practicing yoga.

Professional Associations: Washington Association of Behavior Analyst (WABA), BACB ACE Continuing Education Provider

Susan Sywulka, MS.Ed. , LBA, BCBA

Behavior Analyst- Whatcom Co. Provider

Having regularly visited Bellingham since childhood, I am happy to call it home since 2024. In the various jobs I have had around the country and around the world I have met many individuals with varied backgrounds. A desire to help individuals experiencing impacts and impairments thrive led me to study Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis. I obtained my Masters degree from Cairn University in 2019 and my BCBA certification in 2020. Following my training I worked with an NGO in New Delhi, India, supporting both children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities. In my role as a BCBA, my aim is to aid people in their development and learning so that they can be full participants and contributors in their communities. Other roles I enjoy are being a bird-watcher, baker, and an avid reader.

Professional Associations: International SRV Association (ISRVA), Washington Association of Behavior Analysts (WABA)

Abby VanderKooi, BS, CBT, RBT

Behavior Technician- Whatcom Co. Provider

I am originally from the Midwest, but I moved to Washington in 2018 to pursue my Bachelors degree in Psychology. My career in ABA started in 2021 where I worked as a Behavior Technician in the Seattle area. In this role I provided behavioral and educational support to neurodiverse clients ages 4-14 in home and school settings. Having recently moved to Bellingham, I am excited to continue providing services in this new community as an RBT here at Balanced Behavior ABA. I am also looking forward to continuing my education to pursue a Masters degree in the field of ABA. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time outside on the water paddle boarding or going on hikes with my dog Frankie! I am also an avid thrifter, and enjoy searching the racks for unique, vintage items.