Naima Bhana Lopez, PhD, BCBA-D
Promoting Equity and Diversity in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis
About Me
Areas of Specialization
- Early Intervention
- Implementation Science
- Cultural, Ethnic, and Linguistic Diversity
- Language and Literacy Interventions
- Autism Spectrum Disorders and Related Developmental Disabilities
Dr. Naima Bhana Lopez (she/her/ella) is an assistant professor of special education and board certified behavior analyst doctoral (BCBA-D) at Niagara University in Lewiston, NY. Her scholarship is focused on developing methods to increase the social-communication opportunities provided to young children with developmental disabilities by training natural communication partners such as family members, teachers, and paraprofessionals. Her research also seeks to improve the quality of life outcomes of ethnically, and racially diverse students, teachers, and families as well as expanding services for children with disabilities in Spanish speaking countries.
Naima received her doctorate in special education from Penn State University and her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Florida State University. She has published and presented at national and international conferences in English and Spanish on the topics of Autism Spectrum Disorders, Diversity and Equity in Special Education, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
Speaking Engagements, Community Outreach, and Consulting
I am available for private parent coaching sessions (via Telehealth or in person) and for speaking engagements on any of the following topics:
Autism Spectrum Disorders (e.g., communication, inclusion, behavior management, social skills development)
Academic programs for students with complex needs
Early Intervention for learning, communication, and literacy for children with and without disabilities.
Assistive Technology and Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Applied Behavior Analysis
Caregiver Implemented Interventions for children with developmental disabilities.