Our Team

The LifeSpeed team is composed of dedicated, caring professionals who strive to exceed
expectations on every level. LifeSpeed functions as a top-down system in that our BCBAs set the standards that our Therapists are then expected to meet.

Executive Leadership

Tony Russo MA, BCBA
Owner

Recognizing the lack of continuing support options available to adolescents, young adults, and adults living with developmental disabilities and/or cognitive disorders, Tony founded LifeSpeed to make Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services more accessible to this underserved population.

Prior to college, Tony honorably served 4 years in the United States Marine Corps; eventually attaining the rank of Sergeant in the elite 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion. Tony earned a Master of Arts degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

Tony oversees every aspect of the support LifeSpeed offers, ensuring that the highest degree of care is provided to each of our clients. In his free time, Tony is active in his commitment to encourage the ethical treatment of all animals, and is avid proponent of physical fitness.

Courtney Kuchan MS, BCBA
Director of Program Development
Courtney earned a Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2018. Courtney has extensive experience working with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in an in-home, school, and clinic setting. In her role as the Director of Program Development, Courtney currently oversees all operations of the LifeSpeed Early Learning Center.

Courtney approaches her work with an encouraging, tireless attitude. Despite being involved with all of the early learners LifeSpeed provides support to, Courtney remains an amazing advocate for clients of all ages and abilities. Courtney is a very dedicated practitioner, and she truly goes above and beyond to maximize positive outcomes for her clients and their families. In her spare time, Courtney enjoys working out, cooking for friends and family, and meditating.

Kim Phelps
Client Services Coordinator
Kim earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Saint Xavier University, and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work degree through the University of Michigan. In her role as the Client Services Coordinator, Kim oversees LifeSpeed’s Self-Direction Assistant program. Additionally, Kim spearheads initiatives associated LifeSpeed’s recently established 501(c)(3) non- profit branch, Beyond LifeSpeed; a venture centered on providing innovative shared living arrangements for young adults who need additional support. Always focused on advocacy, Kim has an extensive background in navigating State-funded services for people diagnosed with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.

When she isn’t working, Kim enjoys reading, going to concerts, and trying new craft beers after a hard workout.

Behavior Analysts

LifeSpeed recognizes the importance of our BCBAs having a trusting therapeutic relationship with all of the families they support, and we continue to actively seek out ways to better understand a trauma-informed care approach to ABA.
Director of Training & Compliance
Manager of Employee Well-being

Behavior Therapists

Brianna Minando

Lead Behavior Therapist

Grace Salerno

Lead Behavior Therapist

Elana Sickman

Lead Behavior Therapist

Jessica Meilahn

Brandon Wendt

Carolina Schlawiedt

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