Meet our Leadership
Our executive team brings over 60 years of experience working with people with autism, developmental disabilities, and mental health disorders.
Dennis Zellers, M.Ed. BCBA, NADD-CC
Agency Director
Dennis Zellers has more than 12 years of experience working with people with autism, developmental disabilities, and mental health disorders. Dennis has dedicated his career to advancing quality care, developing innovative clinical programs, and supporting individuals and families through compassionate, evidence-based practices.
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Before joining WJS, Dennis founded a clinical program for adults in the Pittsburgh area designed to meet the needs of individuals with significant behavioral challenges. He is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), Licensed Behavior Specialist (LBS), and a NADD Certified Clinician, specializing in the intersection of autism, intellectual disabilities, and co-occurring mental health conditions.
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Dennis’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that communication extends far beyond spoken words. He approaches each person as a whole individual — considering their history, life circumstances, and unique ways of expressing themselves — to truly understand their wants and needs. This holistic, person-centered perspective continues to guide his leadership, advocacy, and direct work in the field.
Lisa Thorpe MA. MEd. LBS
Associate Director
With over 26 years of experience in the behavioral health field, Lisa Thorpe is a Licensed Behavioral Consultant and Associate Director at WJS Psychological Services. She holds dual master’s degrees in Social Science and Education, and has also completed two years of coursework and supervision toward BCBA certification.
Throughout her career, she has served in multiple capacities, including Therapeutic Staff Support (TSS), Mobile Therapist (MT), and Behavioral Specialist Consultant (BSC). In addition, she spent two years as Mental Health Director at another agency, where she provided leadership, clinical oversight, and program development to improve service quality and client outcomes.
Lisa is passionate about helping children reach their fullest potential, she specializes in supporting children with autism spectrum disorder. She finds deep fulfillment in witnessing the progress her clients make and the joy that growth brings to both the children and their families. Her compassionate approach, combined with her extensive clinical background, reflects her lifelong dedication to fostering positive behavioral change and empowering families through evidence-based interventions.
Christa Ricciuti M.Ed. LBS
Associate Director
With over 25 years of dedicated service to WJS Psychological Associates, Christa Ricciuti brings a wealth of experience and compassion to her work with children and adolescents on the Autism Spectrum. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to creating structured, supportive, and engaging environments that foster growth, independence, and confidence in every child she serves.
As a supervisor at WJS for more than two decades, Christa has played a key role in guiding staff and ensuring high-quality behavioral and therapeutic support for clients and families. She holds a master’s degree in Counselor Education, completed Behavior Analyst coursework through the University of Florida Tech, and maintains licensure through the State Board of Medicine.
Christa’s professional experience extends across Washington, Westmoreland, and Fayette Counties, where she has provided direct support and consultation to children, families, and interdisciplinary teams. Her practice is grounded in evidence-based strategies, patience, and empathy—helping individuals build critical communication, social, and emotional skills that enhance overall quality of life.
Driven by a deep passion for her field, Christa is equally devoted to empowering and educating families, ensuring they feel supported and equipped to advocate for their child’s ongoing development and success.
