Debra Leach

Dr. Debra A. Leach, Ed.D., BCBA, is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and special educator whose work focuses on supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other disabilities through inclusive, evidence-based practices. She has served as a special education professor at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, South Carolina, where she taught in the Department of Special Education and directed the Winthrop Think College program, a fully inclusive postsecondary program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Earlier in her career, she worked as a public school teacher, early intervention provider, and Associate Director of the Florida Atlantic University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities.

Dr. Leach holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Exceptional Student Education (Emotional Disturbance and Intellectual Disabilities) from the University of Florida and an Ed.D. in Exceptional Student Education (Inclusion, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Early Intervention) from Florida Atlantic University. Her professional expertise includes autism spectrum disorders, applied behavior analysis, positive behavior supports, multi-tiered systems of support, inclusive education, and early intervention. She is the author of multiple works on applied behavior analysis and inclusion, including Behavior Support for Students with ASD: Practical Help for 10 Common Challenges and earlier titles such as *Br