The People Behind NextStep
Our team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), special education teachers, are passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of children with a wide range of developmental and learning needs. We provide school-based, center-based, and home-based services, partnering closely with families and educational teams. Get to know the professionals who will be working with and supporting your child.
Alicia Varney
Owner & Founder, M.Ed., BCBA
Alicia Varney, M.Ed., BCBA is the Founder and Owner of NextStep Behavioral Services, created to support children and families with thoughtful, compassionate, and individualized care. With over 20 years of experience as a special education teacher and Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Alicia brings a deep understanding of both learning and behavior across home, school, center and community settings. She founded NextStep in September 2025 with the belief that every child deserves to be met where they are, supported by a team that truly listens, collaborates, and focuses on meaningful progress. Alicia is passionate about building strong relationships with families, empowering staff, and providing high-quality, evidence-based services that help children gain confidence, independence, and skills that carry into everyday life.
Kelly O'Neil
BCBA, CAGS, LABA
Kelly O'Neil, CAGS, BCBA, LABA, is a doctoral student in Counseling and School Psychology (Psy.D.) at Rivier University with over 17 years of experience supporting children and families. Her greatest accomplishment is raising four respectful, responsible, and kind young men, an experience that deeply shaped her professional path. When one of her children was diagnosed with autism, learning everything possible to support him became a passion that continues today, even as he has grown into a college-educated, independent adult. This journey expanded her work beyond autism to include mental health, cognitive functioning, and emotional well-being, with a focus on helping the whole person. She is currently pursuing advanced training in counseling and neuropsychological assessment to deepen this integrative approach. In her spare time, Kelly enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her dog, as well as drawing and traveling.
Kayla Curt
Special Education Teacher, M.A. in ABA
Hi! I'm Kayla, a full-time special education teacher and future BCBA with three years of teaching experience and over five years working in Human Services. I recently earned my master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, which is my greatest professional achievement. Prior to teaching, I worked with adults and young adults with developmental disabilities, autism, and substance use disorders. I am passionate about meeting students where they are, celebrating small wins that lead to meaningful growth, and empowering learners to feel capable and confident in their education. In my free time, I love reading all types of novels, especially classic literature like Jane Austen. I also enjoy traveling, with cruises to warm destinations like the Caribbean being a personal favorite.
Chrissy Eichhorn
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)
My name is Chrissy Eichhorn, and I am a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) with seven years of experience in the field. I am currently working toward my master's degree in Behavior Analysis. I found my way into this field unexpectedly, but quickly fell in love with the work after seeing the incredible progress one of my first clients made. Moments like that continue to inspire my passion for helping clients grow and succeed. Outside of work, I enjoy creating art and hold an associate's degree in Fine Arts. I love spending time with my friends and family and traveling internationally to explore new cultures and experiences.
Christina Philbrick
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)
Christina Philbrick is a registered behavior technician from Kittery, Maine. She studied Special Education and Theatre at the University of New Hampshire, and has worked with children of all abilities for over 15 years. Christina has also worked professionally as a musical theatre performer and Irish step dancer. She is passionate about arts integration, promoting inclusion, and providing neurodiversity affirming care to her clients!