About Us
At The Owen Academy, our mission is to recognize and celebrate the unique qualities that make your child special. We take the time to truly get to know them-not just their diagnosis. By learning about your child's likes, dislikes, strengths, interests, and the activities they enjoy, we form a comprehensive understanding of who they are as an individual. This foundational knowledge is essential for us to create a therapy environment that feels comfortable and engaging for your child, ensuring that they are treated with the respect and care they deserve. Upon assessment and enrollment, we go above and beyond by not only designing a detailed, personalized treatment plan tailored to your child's specific needs but also by pairing them with the ideal Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). Our experienced team carefully matches each child with an RBT who understands their personality, preferences, and unique learning style. This thoughtful pairing ensures that your child's therapy is not only effective but also enjoyable, promoting the best possible outcomes for their growth and development. We are committed to supporting your child every step of the way, and we believe that understanding and nurturing their individuality is the key to success.
Our Core Values
Opening an ABA clinic is a business, but our owner and staff have made it a priority to always put our clients and their parents first by connecting with heart and compassion
Compassion
At The Owen Academy, we pride ourselves in doing everything to the very best of our abilities and implementing excellence of CARE as our gold standard
Care
At The Owen Academy, being active in our community is of utmost importance to us. As we are actively involved in our local communities, we are also raising awareness about Autism, play-base ABA, and promoting acceptance of individuals living life on the autism spectrum.
Community
Our Team
Brina Dutton and her husband, Ronnie, are lifelong Texoma residents who married in 2005. The Duttons have two wonderful children, Carter (15) and Owen (9) and two pups, Hank & Bandit.
Brina’s career spans healthcare, entrepreneurship, ministry, and marketing.
She played a pivotal role in recruiting and managing Physician Investors to establish sleep labs and clinics across Texas and Oklahoma, requiring expertise in healthcare investment and patient care. She also managed the North Dallas Territory for respiratory patients, strengthening her business development skills and commitment to improving patient outcomes.
Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to own and operate an upscale children’s boutique for 10 years, where she successfully managed branding, inventory, and customer experience. Additionally, she dedicated 12 years to overseeing Children’s Church and Music Ministries, developing educational programs and fostering community outreach.
Brina is a 2005 graduate of Southeastern Oklahoma State University, earning a degree in Organizational & Strategic Communication and English (Writing Emphasis).
Brina’s corporate career began at The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma in 2001, where she worked in Human Resources before transitioning into Graphic Design, Marketing, and Advertising for Choctaw Casinos and Resorts. Her expertise in storytelling and branding continues to influence her work.
Brina is a passionate advocate for the autism community, inspired by her journey as a mother to Owen, her son who was diagnosed with non-verbal autism at age 3. Her personal experience drives her commitment to supporting families, raising awareness, and fostering inclusion.
When Owen received his diagnosis, Brina drove Owen every weekday for 3 years to ABA therapy, an hour each way. Eventually, this led Brina to open her own ABA clinic. ABA was life-changing for the Dutton family and Brina wanted all children with Autism to have access to ABA therapy. The Owen Academy was the first ABA clinic to open in Durant, Oklahoma, opening their doors for therapy on March 4, 2024; bringing ABA services back home, to an area that had never had access to those resources.
As the founder of The Owen Academy, Brina has built a nurturing space where children with autism receive child-led, play-based ABA therapy that makes learning natural and effective. She and her administrative staff have assembled a dedicated and nurturing team of BCBAs and RBTs that empower children through individualized support at The Owen Academy.
Brina also founded The Owen Foundation in 2021, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides resources and inclusive programs for families of children with autism and other special abilities. The foundation hosts an annual 5K, Soccer Camp, Basketball Camp, and Cheer Clinic, serving hundreds of children in the community and works to create an inclusive community for not only children with autism, but all extra needs.
Additionally, Brina co-hosts Mighty Moms Podcast, a global support platform for autism parents, which reached listeners in 18 countries in 2024. Through the podcast and her advocacy, she educates families on early intervention, IEPs, and emergency management training to promote safer, more inclusive communities.
Brina actively works with state leaders and organizations across Oklahoma & Texas to strengthen, increase and implement change for the Autism Community.
Her mission is clear: to empower children with autism, support families, and create a world where every child is recognized for their strengths—ensuring no family navigates the journey alone.
Brina Dutton
Owner & CEO
Jeanna Peters is our Director of Operations. She comes to us with an extensive work history in the medical field and for 28 years has been a proud Autism parent.
Jeanna loves to partner the client with the perfect technician/therapist, and seeing the results that ABA delivers. She loves the constant challenges, variety of tasks, and smiles from our staff and clients that this job entails.
Jeanna enjoys spending time with her husband, Kevin, and her adult children, being a recreational farmer, and rescuing dogs/animals when she can.
Jeanna
Executive
Director of Operations
Hi, my name is Jesse. I am a RBT at The Owen Academy in Durant, OK. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology and am currently working on a master’s in counseling. While I have not been at the academy for very long, I can definitely see the impact that ABA has on these kid’s lives. I have quickly fallen in love with this job and look forward to coming in every single day. I truly believe that TOA is doing amazing work with these kids and can’t wait to see where this journey takes me
Hi, my name is Soraya, I am a Registered Behavior Therapist at The Owen Academy in Durant, OK. I’m very passionate about working with kids and helping them grow. What I love most about working at TOA is seeing kids gain confidence and achieve their goals, no matter how big or small. Building connections with them is so rewarding, and it’s amazing to know I’m making a difference in their lives. I love teaching our clients important life skills and helping them overcome any challenges, and it is so rewarding to see a difference. Our clinic has such a welcoming atmosphere and everyone is so kind and happy. I love that everyone here is always up to lend a helping hand. I’m so lucky to be a part of this team and to see each kid grow every day!
Soraya
Kara
Biller
Hi, my name is Alianna. I am an RBT at The Owen Academy in Durant, Oklahoma. I would say my greatest achievement is making my clients feel understood and heard. Building such a great relationship with the kiddos that during morning pick ups, as soon as they see where they are, their face lights up with the biggest smile. I value what I do as an RBT, seeing them and their struggles, listening to their needs, treating them with passion, dignity and respect. I work as an RBT to anticipate your needs and exceed your expectations. I love what I do! Another thing I’d like to add, the atmosphere in our clinic is enriching, encouraging, exciting, welcoming, quite literally everything you’d want your therapy/workplace to be. Every day we all share a positive attitude and practice! We are a team, but most importantly, a family.
Alianna
Lead Registered
Behavioral Technician
My name is Makayla! I have been an RBT for a year now and have a bachelors degree in Psychology. I am continuing my career path by beginning school in the Spring to pursue my Masters in applied behavioral analytics and become a BCBA! What I love the most about working with TOA is the atmosphere! It falls nothing short of amazing. The staff is so kind and welcoming, and I love how everyone works as a team to help each other when needed. The reason I love being an RBT is the happiness I get from being able to help make a difference in these children’s life is like no other. Seeing them grow and hit big milestone is so rewarding! I hope I can continue to make a difference in all the little lives we help!
Makayla
Hi, my name is Karla and I am an RBT at The Owen Academy in Durant, Ok. What I enjoy the most about being an RBT is being able to see the kiddos grow and achieve new things. One of my goals is to form a strong bond, so they not only feel seen, but also know I’m here to help. I love working as an RBT, because of all the kiddos I get to meet and all of the sweet personalities I get to be around. I hope to make an impact in each one of their lives. Our clinic is a warm atmosphere. Everyone has a positive attitude, works hard and strives to be the best.
Karla
Hello, my name is Deanna. I am married, have 4 amazing boys, and 2 fur babies. I enjoy spending time with my little family, crafts, skating, a good movie or song, reading and naps. I have been an RBT at The Owen Academy since September 2024. Coming from a background in orthodontics, management, and a school Special Education department, this has been the most fulfilling career. It is beautiful. The proud moments, tears that can be brought to your eyes over the not so small milestones of our clients. It warms my heart to see the changes made in a child's life by this program. The amount of love, compassion, and understanding our team exudes is beyond any expectations I could have had.
Deanna
My name is Michele and I am a RBT at The Owen Academy in Durant, Oklahoma. What I love most about being a Registered Behavioral Technician is forming all these sweet bonds with the children while also watching them meet their varying behavioral goals. It’s the most rewarding feeling being able to see the looks in their faces when they are being cheered on for accomplishing a goal. What I love about working for TOA is how it feels like a family. If one kid is hitting a milestone, we’re all cheering and all so proud of them. Every one is so willing and ready to step up to help any of us in need. Our team truly has an unmatched atmosphere and it shows everyday when we have children so excited to be there and even sometimes not wanting to leave. I love the team I work with and am so proud to see the work they do everyday!
Michelle
Hello! My name is Emily, I have been an RBT for 2 years and have been blessed with the opportunity to change lives at The Owen Academy while also being in nursing school. I currently have an associates of applied sciences, and am working toward my bachelors of nursing. I entered the field of ABA in November of 2022 because of my passion for working with kids, and the need for wanting to help those around me. ABA has changed not only my life by helping me raise my own 2 boys, but has had an impact on every child I have seen enter the field around me. To be apart of this field is a privilege that I am thankful for everyday!
Emily
Hi, my name is Candic, and I’ve been RBT for a year. What I enjoy most about being an RBT is helping kids on their life journey and witnessing the incredible progress they make every day. I love working at TOA because of the amazing impact we have on the kids and their families. TOA is more than just a workplace—it’s a community that genuinely cares not only about its clients but also about its employees. The supportive environment and teamwork make it an incredible place to grow and thrive. I'm truly blessed to be apart of this amazing team.
Candic
My name is Catherine, I am a Behavior Technician at The Owen Academy. I am currently working toward becoming an RBT. What I enjoy most about working at The Owen Academy is the warm and welcoming atmosphere. Being here feels like having being a part of aloving and caring family. We all take so much pride in our work. I love being able to work hands-on with so many wonderful children. I hope to continue growing my career in ABA so I can make a meaningful difference in this community and in my own life.
Catherine
Hi my name is Darian and I am a Registered Behavior Technician at The Owen Academy! I enjoy being an RBT because it allows me to make a direct, positive impact on the lives of the kids and support them with reaching their behavioral goals. Working with each child getting to see each kids unique personality and how their fascinating minds learn is an amazing sight to witness. Working at TOA has been nothing but a positive and friendly atmosphere. All staff supports and helps one another grow and everyone strives to give each kid the best support into helping them thrive in life! TOA is a family who welcomes with open arms.
Darian
Hi! My name is Paden. I am a Registered Behavior Technician at The Owen Academy. I’m excited for what the future holds for me and my new career. I’m attending school at Southeastern Oklahoma State University for a degree in Psychology with a minor in child development. What I love most about working as an RBT is witnessing and being a part of the differences made in the lives of our clients! Watching them grow is a blessing like no other!
Paden
Registered Behavioral Technician
Registered Behavioral Technician
Registered Behavioral Technician
Registered Behavioral Technician
Registered Behavioral Technician
Registered Behavioral Technician
Registered Behavioral Technician
Hello, my name is Becky. My three greatest joys in life are my three amazing children, Addison Aryn, Lucas Shawn, and Landree Kate. I earned a Bachelor of Arts in communication with an emphasis in Organizational and Strategic Communication from Southeastern Oklahoma State University, graduating in 2008. As Client Relations Manager at The Owen Academy, I have experienced a highly rewarding opportunity. Cultivating and maintaining strong client relationships and consistently delivering exceptional customer service by proactively addressing needs and exceeding expectations, while challenging, has been incredibly fulfilling. The happy faces and joyful noises of our children every day are a blessing.
Becky
Client
Relations Manager
Jessie
Registered Behavioral Technician
Kirsten
BCBA
Alex
BCBA
Jelissa
BCBA
Lead Registered
Behavioral Technician
Lead Registered
Behavioral Technician
Lead Registered
Behavioral Technician
Hi, my name is Jelissa, and I am a dedicated Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with a passion for empowering individuals with autism and fostering inclusive communities. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of South Alabama and a Master’s in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis from Capella University. Currently, I am pursuing my Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology at Capella, aspiring to contribute as a professor and thought leader in the field.
I am committed to helping individuals thrive through Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). With a strong background in developmental and educational psychology, I take a research-driven and compassionate approach to behavior intervention. I work closely with clients, families, and interdisciplinary teams to develop individualized treatment plans that foster growth in communication, social skills, and independent living. My goal is to create meaningful learning experiences and implement reinforcement strategies tailored to each client’s unique needs.
Outside of my work, I am a devoted wife and mother of three: Leyah (8), Imani (3), and Jaxyn (newborn). I love spending time in my garden, participating in community events, and expanding my research in psychology. My mission is to support children and families while working to create a more inclusive world through education, research, and advocacy.
Alexandra is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with a background in special education, autism, and behavior analysis.
While her undergraduate degree is in human resource management, she later switched tracks and obtained her M.Ed in Special Education with dual concentrations in both ABA and Autism Studies fromm Ball State. She hopes to soon complete the second half of her coursework for her Ed. S. in Educational Leadership- Special Education Administration through Arkansas State University.
Alexandra has been working with the K-12 special education population for almost a decade and the K-12 moderate/severe behavioral concern population for about 8 years. In that time, she has worked with a variety of diagnosis, including autism, down syndrome, ADD, and ODD, among others. She has worked as both a special education teacher and BCBA consultant for public, private, and specialized behavior schools in the self-contained and inclusion settings. Alexandra has also worked as a clinical supervisor in both the clinic and home settings.
Alexandra is passionate about developing tailored, evidence-based interventions that create a meaningful impact for her client’s and their families. She especially enjoys empowering caregivers and staff members with ABA tools and strategies.
Originally from Seattle ,WA my career in ABA began in 2015. Kirsten has worked in center, home and community settings. She advocates Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) and is passionate about providing assent-based treatment, as well as prioritizing family-focused and collaborative approaches in our work.
With a Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis from Arizona State University, Kirsten brings expertise in ensuring treatment is both compassionate and clinically effective.
Her core values center around maintaining high clinical quality while emphasizing collaboration and family focus.
Outside of work, you'll find her spending time with her husband and four dogs, enjoying activities like indoor cycling and boxing, traveling, attending live music events, and exploring new foods!
CJ is a junior at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, pursuing a degree in Health and Human Performance with a goal of becoming a physical therapist. A dedicated Christian and a passionate advocate for helping others, CJ works as an RBT, where he finds purpose in supporting individuals to thrive. CJ cherishes spending time with family and watching sports. Committed to making positive impact, CJ believes in the calling to uplift and inspire others.
CJ
Registered Behavioral Technician
Hello, my name is Keegan. I am a Team Assistant and Runner at The Owen Academy. I enjoy being a part of The Owen Academy team. It is like having another family. Everyone works together to make sure all of our clients have the environment they need to succeed. I enjoy being a small part of the TOA family.
Keegan
Team Runner
& Assistant
