Hello
Meet Gabriela I. Sierra M., MA, BCBA

Gaby has worked in the Mental Health field specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis, Mental Illness and Performance Management since 2001. She started as a Direct Support Professional for adults in Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILAs) and children with Intellectual Disabilities while in college. These experiences defined her career and in 2006, she graduated from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a degree in Clinical Psychology, specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis. Gaby spent the first 10 years of her career working in community agencies under varied capacities and immersing herself in different aspects of organizational and individual service needs.Over the past 20+ years, Gaby has lead organizations in creating systems to successfully support services for individuals from the ground up, including programs to support individuals to learn skills as well as manage interfering behaviors. Most importantly she has spent all that time listening to individuals and working directly with them to figure out what works for them at home, work, and the community. Finally, her work focuses on the relationship between happiness, satisfaction (of individuals & support staff), and performance. Gaby has cofounded other successful businesses including BIOS which has served over 20 agencies and more than 200 individuals and families. BIOS is regarded as one of the best providers of Behavior Analytic services for dually diagnosed (IDD/MI) individuals in residential placements, and youth in foster care in the area. She is excited to continue her mission and support individuals through her work at Ampersand.
Shanarah Kamwaka, Community Partner

Hello! My name is Shanarah. I am a 2025 Neuroscience with a concentration in Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience graduate from DePaul University. I have a passion in understanding the complexities of the human mind and behavior. Outside of academics, I thrive on connecting with others and helping them grow personally. Since 2022, I have worked at Ampersand Community Services as a Direct Support Analyst, where I have honed my problem-solving skills and provided valuable support and frienship to the community members. Driven by compassion and my commitment to continuous learning, I aspire to make a meaningful impact both academically and professionally.
Monica Ortiz, Program Coordinator

