UNIFI Autism Care, a renowned provider of applied behavior analysis (ABA) services, is undergoing significant leadership changes as it reshuffles two C-suite roles while its CEO, Mark Reddinger, seeks new opportunities. This restructuring signals a shift in focus toward a more clinically-led approach, reinforcing the company’s commitment to its core mission of providing exceptional care for children with autism and their families. While UNIFI has not yet announced a new CEO, the company has named Breanne Hartley, its Chief Clinical Officer (CCO), as President. Additionally, Dr. Steven Merahn, a former strategic advisor to the company, has been appointed as the new Chief Medical Officer (CMO).
Breanne Hartley, a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA), has played a crucial role in UNIFI’s success since its inception. Her new position as President, alongside her ongoing duties as CCO, underscores her leadership within the company and her deep expertise in behavioral health. Hartley expressed in a statement to Autism Business News that this leadership shift aligns perfectly with UNIFI’s strategic focus on clinically-driven care, a model that places a premium on the expertise of clinicians in shaping treatment programs for children with autism. This ABA therapy leadership change positions UNIFI to continue advancing its mission of high-quality autism care with a strong clinical foundation. Hartley, who is also a co-founder of the company, emphasized that the company’s leadership team, consisting of herself, Dr. Merahn, and co-founders Dorron Ferris and Erica Outlaw, is united by their shared passion for improving the lives of those impacted by autism.
CEO Transition and ABA Therapy Leadership Change
The decision to restructure the leadership team comes on the heels of Mark Reddinger’s departure from his role as CEO. Having served as CEO since November 2023, Reddinger took to LinkedIn to announce that he is now seeking a new role. In his post, Reddinger stated that he is looking for opportunities in positions such as CEO, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Chief Growth Officer, or Chief Strategy Officer. His short tenure at the helm of UNIFI marks a period of transition, and the company is now in the process of identifying a new leader to guide it into its next phase of growth. This shift in leadership is indicative of the ongoing ABA therapy leadership change at the organization.
Despite this leadership change, UNIFI Autism Care remains firmly committed to its mission of providing high-quality, comprehensive services for children with autism and their families. The company is poised for significant expansion, with plans to open three new locations in Indiana in early 2025. Additionally, the company will continue its expansion into Iowa, where it will offer its unique blend of ABA therapy, diagnostic testing, and family interaction training. UNIFI has also revealed plans to formalize collaborations with healthcare systems in 2025, further cementing its role as a vital player in the pediatric behavioral health space. This ongoing ABA therapy leadership change ensures the company is prepared to meet the growing demand for its services across multiple states.
The Integrated Model of Care and ABA Therapy Leadership Change
UNIFI’s interdisciplinary approach is at the heart of its mission. The company works in close partnership with a range of healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, neurologists, psychiatrists, and psychologists. This integrated model ensures that children with autism receive comprehensive, holistic care that addresses not only their behavioral needs but also their overall developmental and health needs. By continuing to expand its services and collaborate with other healthcare providers, UNIFI is working to improve patient outcomes across the board. The ABA therapy leadership change within the company reflects its commitment to this integrated approach, which is essential for delivering the best care for children and families.
Breanne Hartley’s Role in ABA Therapy Leadership Change
Hartley’s leadership will be instrumental in advancing this model of care. In addition to her role as President, Hartley continues to serve as the President of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), where she has been an influential figure in the behavior analytic community. Before joining UNIFI, Hartley held the position of Chief Operations Officer at LittleStar ABA Therapy, which provided her with valuable experience in managing clinical operations. Her combined expertise in ABA therapy and leadership makes her well-positioned to guide the company toward its goals of elevating clinical excellence and ensuring meaningful patient outcomes. This ABA therapy leadership change is seen as a step toward strengthening UNIFI’s ability to provide top-tier services to children with autism.
Dr. Steven Merahn and the ABA Therapy Leadership Change
Joining Hartley on the leadership team is Dr. Steven Merahn, UNIFI’s new CMO. Dr. Merahn brings extensive experience in both clinical care and executive leadership. A trained pediatrician, Dr. Merahn founded LTC Provider Care, a primary care medical practice, and has held various executive roles in healthcare organizations, including Centria Autism, another ABA provider. His expertise in pediatric care and his background in healthcare management make him uniquely qualified to implement UNIFI’s clinical model and strengthen its relationships with pediatric and payer communities.
Dr. Merahn’s primary focus will be on ensuring that UNIFI’s clinical care remains consistent with the company’s ambitious goals for quality and patient outcomes. As CMO, he will work closely with the company’s behavior analysts to drive clinical policy and program development, ensuring that every aspect of care aligns with best practices in the field. He will also serve as a liaison to the broader pediatric healthcare community, fostering collaborations that enhance the company’s ability to provide the highest level of care. This is another key component of the ABA therapy leadership change at UNIFI, ensuring that all areas of care are aligned with the company’s high standards.
A Unified Leadership Team Driving ABA Therapy Leadership Change
Together, Hartley and Dr. Merahn form a leadership duo with complementary expertise in behavioral health and pediatric care. Their shared commitment to UNIFI’s mission and their experience within the autism and healthcare spaces will help the company continue to innovate and lead in the field of ABA therapy. As the company moves forward, this ABA therapy leadership change signals an exciting future for UNIFI and its ability to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children with autism and their families.
Looking Ahead: ABA Therapy Leadership Change and Company Growth
As UNIFI Autism Care looks to the future, the leadership changes signal a renewed focus on clinical excellence and patient-centered care. The company’s approach—built on the integration of ABA therapy with other healthcare services—sets it apart from other providers in the field. With an expanding footprint in Indiana and Iowa, a commitment to collaboration with healthcare systems, and a leadership team that embodies both clinical and medical expertise, UNIFI is well-positioned to continue making a lasting impact on the lives of children with autism and their families.
While the company searches for a new CEO, the leadership team of Breanne Hartley and Dr. Steven Merahn is poised to steer UNIFI through this transitional phase and onto even greater success in the years to come.
