UK Young Autism Project

Svein Eikeseth PhD, Diane Hayward BSc, Catherine Merry BSc

Directors And Consultants

Professor Svein Eikeseth is the Clinical and Research Director of the UK Young Autism Project. Professor Eikeseth directs two replication studies in Europe. He gained his PhD in 1991, in developmental and child psychology, at the University of Kansas. Later experience was acquired as a post-doctoral fellow at the UCLA Young Autism Project, under the supervision of Dr Lovaas. On returning to Norway he received clinical training at the University of Oslo and is a certified clinical psychologist. He has published research on autism and applied behaviour analysis internationally, in peer reviewed journals. He also teaches at Akerhaus College.

The site director Diane Hayward is based in London. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, as well as being certified by the National Nursery Examination Board (NNEB) and holding the NNEB Diploma in Post Qualifying Studies (DPQS). Experience of using the techniques of Applied Behaviour Analysis includes a site director's internship at UCLA, under the supervision of Dr Lovaas, as well as directing the UK based replication site, together with Professor Eikeseth. Diane is currently completing a Master of Science Degree in Applied Behaviour Analysis, in order to become a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst.

Catherine Merry who operates our Birmingham office also directs the study. Her broad experience in ABA includes extensive programme consultant's training, research, teaching and management on the UCLA Multi-Site Young Autism Project, at the UK replication site. Catherine holds a Bachelor's Degree in Speech and Language Pathology and Therapeutics and is completing a Master of Science Degree in Applied Behaviour Analysis, working towards becoming a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst.

The project has ten additional programme consultants, based in three regions; London, Birmingham and Bristol.

London Programme Consultants

Esther Dontoh is a Board Certified Associate Behaviour Analyst. Esther has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Sociology and has gained extensive experience in ABA for children with autism at the UK replication site, as well as other experiences with children, including those with special needs. Esther's well-rounded background also includes work related to fostering, adoption and victim support.

Rachel Griffiths holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. Prior to employment at UK Young Autism Project, leading her to work at consultancy level, Rachel had gained experience in various models of ABA. She also undertook voluntary work for children and young people, including work in a Romanian orphanage and on a help line for those who are vulnerable.

Daisy Murkin holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. Daisy has vast experience with UK Young Autism Project. In addition she undertook a one-year internship at Children's Hospital Columbus, within a sister-site of the UCLA Multi-Site Young Autism Project, and visited the Lovaas Institute for Early Intervention in Los Angeles.

Michelle Morgan has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and is currently studying for a Master of Science Degree in Applied Behaviour Analysis. Michelle has gained comprehensive experience at UK Young Autism Project, following previous experience in the same field in Canada.

Leonie Brassey holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and has extensive and comprehensive experience using and supervising the techniques of Applied Behaviour Analysis at UK Young Autism Project. Leonie has also gained experience at a school for children with special educational needs and at a mainstream primary school.

Julie Morris holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with Health and Clinical Psychology, and is currently completing a Master of Science Degree in Applied Behaviour Analysis. In addition to her training with UK Young Autism Project, Julie has also worked in an ABA school and residential unit for children with developmental disabilities.

Birmingham Programme Consultants

Liz Shew has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, including research into the use of functional analysis and tantrum behaviour. Extensive experience and training in ABA includes development to consultant level at UK Young Autism Project. Additional posts include school-based work with children with special needs, student counselling and training in British Sign Language.

Regina Symons holds a Master's Degree in Crime, Law and Society and is qualified as a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst. In addition to her broad experience at UK Young Autism Project, Regina has a wide range of previous experience using ABA in schools and homes in the United States.

Bristol Programme Consultants

Dean Smith has extensive experience practicing the UCLA model, including advanced training and experience at the UK replication site, in order to become a consultant. Dean has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Critical Psychology. He is also presently studying for a Master of Science Degree in Applied Behaviour Analysis.

Sarah Fletcher is based in Bristol. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and is currently studying for a Master of Science Degree in Applied Behaviour Analysis. Sarah has extensive experience with UK Young Autism Project that has led to her developing to consultancy level.