At Daruma Dreams, we believe in bold dreams, limitless potential, and real support for individuals and families on the autism spectrum — from first steps to adult milestones and beyond.

Two people in traditional Japanese clothing sitting on a wooden stage in front of a traditional building with shoji doors, smiling and waving at an audience whose heads are blurred in the foreground.

Meet Karlie – Founder & BCBA

Hi, I’m Karlie — a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, lifelong advocate for compassionate ABA, proud Mississippi native, and current North New Jersey resident (with a love for karaoke and good party vibes on the side).

I’ve been in the world of ABA since 2012, when I started as a Behavior Technician working with teens on the spectrum in sunny California. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals ages 2 to 23, helping them build independence, confidence, and connection in their everyday lives.

After moving back home to Mississippi, I became a certified RBT and later earned my Master’s in Education with a focus in ABA from the University of Cincinnati. In 2017, I officially became a BCBA. I didn’t just want to do ABA — I wanted to change it. I’ve spent years advocating to lawmakers and insurance companies to expand access to in-home and community-based services. I helped grow three clinics and expand our team. One of my proudest accomplishments? Mentoring several RBTs who became BCBAs themselves.

Now based in North New Jersey, I continue to bring my passion for empowering individuals and families through personalized ABA services, supporting not just children, but also teens and adults navigating real-life challenges.

After being diagnosed as neurodivergent 3 years ago, my viewpoints and ambitions for the field of ABA have grown. My deep commitment to creating meaningful, compassionate relationships with clients, families, and staff is at the heart of everything I do. I truly believe ABA can (and should) be kind, empowering, and life-changing. Early intervention and 1:1 direct ABA therapy have been highly advertised, but I wanted to do more. I wanted to help those who have struggled like I did for so many years. Daruma Dreams is for anyone (neurodivergent or not) seeking improvement, support, or calmness in their lives at any age. I understand the need, want, and resistance that comes with change and how to navigate through it.

When I’m not working, you can find me:

• Hanging out with my in-laws in Japan

• Going to concerts and planning themed parties

• Hiking, gaming, or dabbling in new languages

• And yes — belting it out at karaoke

A woman with long brown hair, wearing sunglasses, a white t-shirt, and jeans, is standing at a wooden stamp booth outdoors. She is stamping her passport or a booklet. There is a colorful poster of animated characters next to her and a lush, green forest in the background.

Mission

At Daruma Dreams ABA, we believe that thriving starts with whole-family support. Our mission is to empower individuals across the autism spectrum—and at every life stage—through evidence-based ABA therapy, family partnership, and skill-building focused on real-world success.

Vision

To be the leading provider of compassionate, individualized ABA services in New Jersey, fostering lifelong independence, dignity, and belonging for children, adolescents, and adults with autism.

Cherry blossom trees overhanging a canal with pink lanterns, with people walking along the sides

A man and woman dressed in traditional Japanese kimonos, sitting on a tatami mat, smiling at the camera. Behind them is a decorative backdrop with cherry blossoms and two large paper umbrellas, one purple and one red.

In May 2024, I traveled to Japan with my (now) husband, Kazuma. I met his wonderful family, wandered through ancient temples, and experienced a culture that touched my soul in ways I wasn’t expecting.

One day, while taking engagement photos at a quiet, beautiful spot, a group of children on the autism spectrum arrived with their aides. I could see the hesitation in the aides' faces, worried they were interrupting — but all I could do was smile. That moment wasn’t an interruption; it was a reminder of why I do what I do. It was a gift.

Later that day, I bought a daruma doll — a symbol of dreams and perseverance — and wrote "Japan Clinic 2040" on the bottom. I had first dreamed of opening a clinic in Japan more than eight years ago — but I had never acted on it. Standing there in that moment, everything inside me said it was time to stop waiting and start building.

Thanks to the love, encouragement, and unwavering support from my family, friends who truly understand my heart — and yes, even my haters (because sometimes, a little extra motivation is necessary) — Daruma Dreams became a reality much earlier than planned.

Daruma Dreams was born from a belief that hope can’t be put on hold. We proudly serve individuals on the autism spectrum from ages 2 to 30, as well as their families, caregivers, and communities — because creating change takes all of us, together.

Daruma Dreams is a promise to keep believing, keep building, and keep dreaming — because every person deserves the chance to thrive, at every age and every stage of life.

Why Daruma Dreams?

Interested in Joining the Team or Needing Supervision?

For students, behavior technicians, RBTs, and future BCBAs
- Candidate supervision hours
- RBT competency assessments & checkoffs
- Study support & BCBA exam prep coaching
Ideal for: someone interested in receiving support but not joining the team.
Price determined based on support needed
Daruma Dreams ABA values the RBT credential as a foundation for quality care and professional growth. That’s why we invest in our team.
After successful completion of your 60-day onboarding, we’ll cover the full cost of your RBT course and exam fees.
Join a team that supports your growth every step of the way.