About
OUR STORY
Rooted in Play is a unique organization stemming from a passion to address the complex needs of children with a spectrum of behavioral developmental needs while offering guidance and encouragement for the social support systems of these children. Jenifer and Marya have spent years traveling the world. Through this continued exposure to various international communities, they have developed a methodology that addresses issues in developmental processes (including social and cultural differences), which they adamantly believe are influenced both by biology and the nature of one’s upbringing.
As Behavioral Analysts, Jenifer and Marya regularly consult with colleagues from various backgrounds and experiences to help deepen their understanding of what directly influences development and behaviors. By cultivating this superior level of individualized therapy within this distinct community, they continue to professionally and compassionately address the physical, emotional and behavioral health of each client.
Having worked with such an extensive number of families from all over the globe, they have the knowledge and experience to properly and effectively implement curriculum changes (ranging from the home environment to the school environment) in order to foster personal, educational, and social excellence for all clients.
“ We feel fortunate to have built strong therapeutic relationships with all of our clients and with all of their families, knowing that this journey begins with a simple smile yet has the potential to radiate around the globe.”
Marya and Jenifer
Co-founders
TEAM
Jenifer Eaton MA, BCBA
Co-Founder/Owner & Behavior Analyst NYS
Licensed Behavior Analyst
200 hr Registered Yoga Teacher
Jenifer Eaton is a Master level BCBA committed to providing the highest quality of behavioral health care to children and families dealing with developmental delays and disorders.
She completed her Master-level training in Developmental Psychology at Columbia University in 2014 and pursued her Undergraduate education in California. She has lived in Spain from 2009-2011 to teach English and was Certified 200 hour Yoga Alliance Teacher in 2011. Jenifer’s rich experiences has allowed her to embed her practice with mindfulness and offer a compassionate approach that has allowed her to nurture the growth of her clients.
She held a private practice in New York for four years prior to relocating back to California to be close to her family. Her intention is to foster growth and excellence across the globe with all families, supervisees, clients, and colleagues that she continues on this journey with.
Marya Haff, MS Ed., BCBA
Co-Founder/Owner & Behavior Analyst
Marya received her Applied Behavior Analysis certification from Penn State in 2009. She holds a Masters in Early Childhood Education from Touro University with a NYS teacher license in general education for students with disabilities. She worked in Brooklyn as a lead teacher at a preschool for students diagnosed with behavioral disorders.
She moved to California to work as a clinical program supervisor/manager for multiple non public agencies and has been practicing here since.
Her passion for play started with her early childhood background in music & theater. With over a decade long career and experience in ABA working in various corporate and education sectors, she believes that “the business of ABA is meant to be a small, intimate enterprise where passionate and progressive individuals can collaborate with each other to make meaningful decisions that will truly improve the lives of the individuals they serve.” She partnered with her dear friend and colleague, Jenifer, who agrees with the vision that all children are capable of being happy, inquisitive learners while rooted in play.