Meet Our Team

Christina Crocco

Founder & Director

Dr. Crocco is the founder and director of Prism Early Advancement Center. She has her doctorate in special education from FIU. She has published multiple research studies in peer-reviewed journals. Her research focuses on the behavior and social skills of children with autism in classroom settings. She has worked extensively with children with autism and their families in Florida, Pennsylvania, and California. As a former ABA therapist, behavioral consultant, and parent/teacher trainer, Dr. Crocco has used her educational training to improve the lives of individuals with autism through evidence-based interventions. Dr. Crocco most recently worked at the University of Miami as a federal grant manager, where she supported teachers and students across Miami-Dade County Public Schools. In addition to her doctorate, she has a master’s degree in special education from California Polytechnic State University and an undergraduate degree in elementary education from the University of Miami.

Chris Malek

Founder & CEO

A lifelong resident of Miami and graduate of the University of Miami School of Law, Chris is part of the rich diversity of the South Florida community. As CEO, he is committed to ensuring that Prism’s inclusive educational model and service meets the needs of every child who attends Prism. Chris is proud of the unique and personalized educational services provided by Prism, and the important work being done by the Prism team to help the local autism community.

Leo Garcia

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Leo is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who has been working in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis for over 8 years, working as an RBT, BCaBA and a BCBA. He has had the pleasure to work with a variety of treatment teams and with clients across multiple age ranges and diagnoses. Leo obtained his Bachelor’s degree from Florida International University and his Master’s degree from Florida Institute of Technology. He prides himself on providing the highest quality of care for his clients and disseminating best-practices among his treatment team.

Emma Baskind

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

After graduating with her B.A. in Psychology from the University of Miami, Emma began her journey with Prism as an RBT before returning to UM to complete her Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis. She has always had a passion for working with children and believe in meeting each child where they are and helping them grow toward their full potential at their own pace. She is especially excited to collaborate with families and support their children in building independence and confidence that will benefit them for years to come. She looks forward to continuing this meaningful work with the amazing kids and families here at Prism.

Emily Perez

Office and Human Resources Manager

Emily joined Prism Early Advancement Center as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) in August 2022. In 2023, she was promoted to Lead RBT, and later that year, she advanced to the position of Office Manager. Before Prism, Emily amassed over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, where she developed strong managerial skills. In 2018, she earned a B.S. in Communication Sciences & Disorders from the University of Central Florida, with the intention of becoming a Speech-Language Pathologist. However, in 2019, Emily discovered her passion for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and decided to pursue a Master’s degree at Ball State University. She has since completed her degree and is currently accumulating fieldwork hours toward the BCBA exam, with a focus on Organizational Behavior Management.

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