Hey there! My name is Kristen Whiteford. 

I have been working as a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) in CILA settings since 2014. I grew up in the Chicagoland area, spent my undergraduate days in Central Illinois, and moved to Carbondale in 2006; I am an Illinoisan through and through! While I love each part of the Prairie State, I have chosen to call Southern Illinois home for my family because of the laid back people, abundance of nature, and inspiring music scene.

My professional passions include Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and working with registered sexual offenders (RSOs). My favorite part about the work I do is finding common ground between myself, my clients, and their teams. I thrive off connection and collaboration. I’ve found that behavior analysis has provided me with an effective tool to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around me.

In 2020, Anna and I founded Fern Leaf ABA. We built a company to be proud of and I am elated each day to successfully and considerately live out
our mission statement:

Seeing Potential, Encouraging Growth
In our clients, their support networks, our employees, and our field.

Education & Credentials

Board Certified
Behavior Analyst
Certification Number:
1-14-16910
2014

M.S. Behavior Analysis
& Therapy
Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, IL
2014

B.A. Philosophy
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, IL
2006