Sonja earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Inspired to deepen her expertise in special education, she went on to complete her Master’s in Special Education with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at San Diego State University in 2012. While pursuing a graduate degree, Sonja began providing in-home ABA therapy in the San Diego area. With determination she became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2014.

Over the next decade, Sonja worked with a diverse range of clients throughout the greater San Diego area, designing, implementing, and supervising behavior support programs across home, community, and school settings. Her work consistently focused on creating meaningful change for individuals with special needs and their families.

After the birth of her daughter Zeta in August 2019, Sonja and her family relocated to California’s Central Coast to embrace a slower pace of life. Since then, she has dedicated herself to supporting local school districts across San Luis Obispo County.

Through Coastal Behavior Solutions, Sonja brings her passion and expertise to schools—addressing challenging behaviors, promoting positive behavior change, and building staff capacity. In collaboration with educators and school teams, she uses data-driven strategies rooted in ABA to develop individualized behavior intervention plans, support IEP implementation, and create inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive. Her approach is grounded in trauma-informed care, ensuring that every intervention is compassionate, respectful, and sensitive to each student’s unique experiences.