Alexis Montoya is a Behavior Analyst at Stockton Unified School District.
What inspired you to pursue a career in behavioral health?
During my undergraduate studies, I was drawn to the field of human development. Initially, I aspired to pursue a medical degree in pediatrics. However, organic chemistry proved to be a stumbling block, forcing me to reevaluate my path. I enrolled in a couple of psychology courses, which ignited a newfound interest in human behavior and development. I have always been captivated by the intriguing question of ‘Why?’ – why do people behave and express themselves in the ways they do? This curiosity led me to choose a career in behavioral health, driven by a desire to understand the needs and motivations that are important to students, parents, educators, administrators, and people in general. Given that behavior can be observed in multiple settings, such as ABA centers, schools, companies, online platforms, and communities, this field offered me the opportunity to experience, learn, and grow professionally while serving people.
How has being in NUHW helped you in your profession?
As a member of NUHW, I have gained a deeper understanding of the needs of my colleagues in the working environment. Whether Board-Certified Behavior Analysts, Occupational Therapists, Mental Health Clinicians, Physical Therapists, or Speech and Language Pathologists, we all share a common goal of helping students excel in educational settings. To continue striving towards this goal, we have united to form a stronger voice, advocating not only for the needs of our students but also for our needs as service providers to excel in our careers. NUHW has guided us through the challenges we face while working in school districts. Overall, my experience with NUHW has been transformative on both personal and professional levels. Having the opportunity to sit at the negotiation table with community leaders has provided me with invaluable knowledge on how to advocate for the needs of service providers and students effectively.
