About the Founder

Meet Katya Lopez

A first generation

immigrant who wants to make a difference.

Katya Lopez,

M.A., BCBA, LBA

Founder & Clinical Director

As a first-generation immigrant, I often questioned whether I would ever have the same opportunities to grow and succeed as those around me. There were moments when life felt uncertain, overwhelming, and filled with barrier that seemed impossible to overcome. But through every challenge, I learned something deeply meaningful: flowers are capable of blooming even in the toughest conditions. That belief became the inspiration behind Blooming Minds ABA.

My journey into Applied Behavior Analysis began at Florida International University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree and was first introduced to the field of ABA. I spent six years working as a Registered Behavior technician (RBT), supporting children and families through some of their most vulnerable and transformative moments. During those years, I discovered that ABA was more than a profession to me — it was a calling rooted in compassion, connection, and the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive.

Driven by my love for the field, I continued my education and earned my master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Florida Institute of Technology. As a clinician, I strive to lead with compassion, mindfulness, patience, and genuine care. At Blooming Minds ABA, we believe children flourish best when they feel safe, accepted, understood, and deeply loved. Just as flowers bloom when nurtured with warmth and care, little minds deserve an environment where they are encouraged to grow at their own pace while being celebrated for exactly who they are.

Family has always been at the center of my life and values. Without the unconditional love and support of my parents and siblings, I would not be the person I am today.

As the child of immigrants, one quote that has always stayed close to my heart is:

“Immigrant parents, with their wings cut, still teach their children to fly.”

We may not have had much growing up, but we had each other. My family taught me resilience, kindness, empathy, and the courage to dream beyond limitations. Those values are woven into every part of Blooming Minds ABA. Blooming Minds is more than a therapy practice — it is a safe space where children and families are welcomed with compassion, dignity, and understanding. We know that growth is not always linear, and every child’s journey is beautifully unique. Together, we will celebrate every milestone, every breakthrough, and every small step forward.

Our mission is to walk alongside families with warmth, support, and hope while helping each child build confidence, independence, and meaningful connections. Here, families are never alone.

Welcome to the Blooming Minds family — where love is planted, growth is nurtured, and every child is given the opportunity to beautifully bloom.

IN LOVING MEMORY

Of Christian Lopez

Two children, a girl and a boy, standing indoors on a wooden floor. The girl has curly hair, is wearing a sleeveless crop top with colorful ice cream designs, a denim skirt, and sneakers. The boy has short hair, is wearing a gray T-shirt with a motorcycle graphic, denim shorts, and sneakers. They are posing together, with the girl holding a black bag.

In loving memory of my little brother, Christian, whose love, strength,

and unwavering belief in me continue to

inspire me every day. Our connection

is eternal, and his love continues to

help me flourish and will forever be

part of the heart behind Blooming Minds.