Provider Spotlight: Dawn DeBusi, Registered Behavior Technician

At Kelly Pediatric Therapy, we proudly spotlight the dedicated providers who bring expertise, compassion, and creativity to children across our schools.

For nearly 30 years as a teacher, Dawn DeBusi has dedicated her career to helping children learn, grow, and succeed. From preschool and elementary education to special education classrooms and autism support services, she has always been drawn to working with children with special needs. 

As a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) with Kelly Pediatric Therapy, she combines her passion for individualized support with a strong network of encouragement and resources. 

What inspired you to work with children and students with special needs?

When I was young, I had a neighbor with a daughter who had special needs and struggled with communication. I loved spending time with her and seeing how happy she became through our interactions. Watching her smile and seeing the positive impact those connections had on her and her family was special to me.

I also come from a big family and helped care for my younger siblings. Those experiences reinforced how much I enjoy working with and supporting children.

How did you become an RBT?

My career path took me through several different roles. I started working one-on-one with autistic children and gained experience in homes, preschools, and family-based programs. During that time, I went back to school to earn my special education certification.

After that, I spent many years working as a special education teacher. I loved teaching, but over time I found myself missing the individualized support I could provide when working one-on-one with students.

What was the transition to Kelly Pediatric Therapy like?

The transition was extremely smooth. The onboarding process was simple, organized, and easy to navigate. Everything I needed was clearly communicated, and there were always people available to help if I had questions.

I felt like if I had any concerns, I knew exactly who to reach out to and that I would get the right answer. Once I submitted what was needed from my side, I felt confident that Kelly Pediatric Therapy would manage the rest and coordinate with the school district to ensure a smooth transition.

That level of communication made me feel supported from the very beginning.

How has Kelly Pediatric Therapy helped build your confidence as an RBT?

Kelly Pediatric Therapy is a positive place to work because they genuinely support their employees.

When I first started, my clinical director was amazing. I began my assignment after the school year had already started, and she regularly checked in through emails and phone calls to make sure everything was going well and to ask if I needed anything.

Whenever I encounter a challenging situation or work with a new student, I know I can reach out to behavioral specialists and clinical leaders for guidance. Having experienced professionals available to answer questions, offer advice, and help problem-solve gives me confidence that I'm never facing challenges alone. The clinical team regularly checks in and makes sure I have the resources and support I need.

The company is also flexible and works to make sure you're in a position where you can be successful and satisfied. I feel like they truly want employees to thrive and have the tools they need to do their best work.

What keeps you excited about coming to work every day?

I genuinely enjoy what I do.

When I walk into the building each morning, I'm excited to see my students and find new ways to support them academically, socially, and behaviorally.

I've learned that every child is different. You have to get to know their personality, what makes them happy, and what motivates them. Once you understand that, you can use those interests to help them come out of their shell, build skills, and become more comfortable communicating and interacting with others.

Grow your career with Kelly Pediatric Therapy.

At Kelly Pediatric Therapy, our mission is to support dedicated therapists like you, so you can make a difference for children and families in our schools, clinics, and communities. We offer resources, mentorship, and real opportunities for career growth—plus a true work-life balance. Learn more about all the ways we support our therapists.

Connect with our recruiters today to learn how you can advance your career—and make every hour you spend at work more meaningful.

Explore our PT, OT, SLP, and behavioral health opportunities in schools across the country.

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