Our Staff

Management Staff

As the Executive Director of ABC Diagnostic and Learning Center in Riyadh since 13 years. Natalie’s main mission was to increase inclusion of special needs students in regular school setting while focusing on their individualized needs. She has been heading a big multidisciplinary team of specialists focusing on providing the best services for our students through appropriate assessment, intervention, training and inclusion. She has insured that ABC Center provides evidence based practices with international standards. Natalie has published her own program “Asmaa Horoufy” on November 2018. This curriculum targets the phonological awareness, reading and writing for typical students and students with learning difficulties. Natalie has conducted several training programs for schools in Riyadh to spread awareness for special education early identification and intervention. In 2021, Natalie was key member for ABC Center CARF accreditation this is the highest accreditation that ABC Center is offering programs and services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality.Natalie got certified as a test User by the British Psychological Society on January 2013. She has graduated with a Masters in Special Education from the Lebanese American University. Natalie has a Bachelor degree in Math and science education and minor in psychology.

Office Manager and staff coordinator at ABC Learning and Diagnostic Center, Overseeing the work of all office employees to ensure they work productively and meet deadlines and company standards, interviewing and training new office employees and organizing their employment paperwork.

Holds a bachelor’s degree in General Business Administration.

Mariam holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Accounting Department, from Alexandria University. She has worked at ABC Center as an accountant for more than ten years.
She communicates with the student’s guardian to coordinate registration and agree on the costs of the programs offered, payment methods and writing the contract.
She also attended many workshops for training on dealing with students of all categories and age stages.

ِEarly Intervention Department Staff

Masters in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology Head of Speech and Language Therapy Department at ABC Diagnostic and learning Centre. Nazneen leads the team ensuring evidence-based practice is implemented during planning, intervention and measuring progress for clients. Creates professional practice guidelines and protocols. Nazneen conducts staff and parent trainings to ensure highest quality service is provided, constantly upgrading her knowledge and enhancing skills. Member Saudi society of speech Language pathology and audiology, Life member Indian speech and hearing association. PECS level 1 certification.

Saudi bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist who is passionate about supporting children and making a meaningful difference in their lives. I believe that every day is an opportunity to learn, grow, and inspire.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Language Pathology with a minor in Health Care Management from Towson University, Maryland, USA. Dedicated and compassionate, she aspires to build an exciting and challenging career as an expert clinician in the field of communication and communication disorders, applying evidence-based therapy and management skills to achieve the best outcomes for her clients.

Certifications and Professional Training:
    •    Certified Speech-Language Pathologist, Hanen Programs: More Than Words – June 2025
    •    Oral Placement Therapy (OPT): Assessment and Program Plan Development, Level 1 – January 2024
    •    Dysphagia Competency Program, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – May 2022

licensed Speech and Language Pathologist holding a Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing Disorders from King Saud University, graduating with first-class honors.
She is licensed by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties and works with a wide range of cases, from mild language delays to communication disorders associated with autism.
Fay focuses on promoting effective communication through evidence-based strategies. She believes that every child has the ability to communicate in their own way and strives to empower children and their families to develop communication skills naturally and supportively.

Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis with an Excellent Grade at the University of Nevada, Reno (2019-2021).

Bachelor of Education in the field of Special Education-Behavioral Disorders and Autism With the First-Class Honor from King Saud University.
License in Social Responsibility Specialist for Organizations.
Public Research Participation (Lennox-Gastaut syndrome associated with dysgenesis of corpus callosum).
Research Project: Toilet Training for Children with Developmental Disabilities: A Systematic Review
PEAK Certification Level 1 (Mar 2021).

Higher diploma’s degree after University in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), graduated with a 3.45 out of 4 GPA and with a Very Good Grade at University of Nevada Reno (USA) (September 2019- December 2021).

· Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Graduated with a 4.53 Out of 5 GPA with second-class honor. Excellent Grade at King Saud University (2010-2014).

· Trainee for ABA sessions, Riyadh at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre from (2020-2021).

· Working at SKY Clinic, as a child rehabilitation specialist, Autism and Down syndrome. From (2016 – 2018).

· RBT Course 40-hour Training (2019).

· PEAK certification Level 1 (May 2021).

Master’s Degrees in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and in Special Education from George Mason University, Virginia (Honors, 4.0 GPA) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education – Early Intervention from Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud University.

Experienced in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) across the United States and Saudi Arabia, working with children with autism and developmental delays. Skilled in developing and implementing individualized, evidence-based programs to enhance communication, social, and adaptive skills.

Worked at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia as a Student Ambassador and Inclusion Coordinator, supporting initiatives that promoted accessibility and neurodiversity awareness for students with autism and learning differences.

Hold U.S. professional credentials, including Mandated Reporters: Recognizing and Reporting Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation of Adults from the Virginia Department of Social Services, Human Research Ethics – Social & Behavioral Research (CITI Program, USA), and Safety-Care®️ Specialist Certification (QBS, USA), which provide advanced training in ethical research practices, data protection, participant confidentiality, and behavioral safety and crisis prevention. These qualifications allow me to conduct research, apply ethical standards, and advocate effectively for individuals with developmental needs.

Currently a candidate for the Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credentials. Passionate about helping children reach their potential through ethical, compassionate, and data-driven ABA practices.

I have a voice to advocate—and I will use it to empower, educate, and create meaningful change for individuals with developmental and learning differences. I took the oath when finishing my graduate studies, and I will continue to be the voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.

Bachelor’s degree in Special Education (Behavioral Disorders and Autism track) with first class honors, and first place in the batch. (2017-2020)

– Registered RBT Behavior Technician with the American Board of Applied Behavior Analysis (2022).

– An International Behavioral Therapist (IBT) at the American Organization IBAO. (2022)

– An accredited course for applying the VB-MAPP assessment. (2022)

Master’s degree in Behavioral and Emotional Disorders with an excellent distinction from King Saud University, Bachelor’s degree in Special Education (Behavioral Disorders and Autism) with an excellent grade and first-class honors from Princess Nourah University. Currently undergoing training to obtain a (QBA) license and have completed a certified 40-hour Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) course.

Nada Alhebs, an Applied Behavior Analysis Specialist (in training for QBA certification). I hold a Master’s degree in Behavioral and Emotional Disorders with Excellent standing from King Saud bin Abdulaziz University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education – Behavioral Disorders and Autism – with First-Class Honors from Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University. I’m passionate about supporting children with developmental and behavioral challenges, empowering them to reach their fullest potential through evidence-based behavioral strategies. My goal is to create meaningful, lasting change that enhances the lives of both children and their families.

Afrah Khatib holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from India. She works as a Behavioral Therapist and BrainRX & AccelerateRX trainer at ABC Center. Prior to this, she gained valuable experience as an intern at hospitals in Mumbai, where she built on her knowledge in clinical assessments and psychotherapy. Her main interests are to develop research-based interventions and standardized assessments and is passionate about creating effective solutions that promote cognitive development across diverse populations

Ms. Noor Othman is a Behavioral Specialist with over nine years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). She specializes in supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning difficulties, and developmental disabilities.

She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from the University of Jordan (2016) and holds certifications as a Qualified Autism Service Practitioner–Supervisor (QASP-S) by QABA and as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) by BACB.

Noor has extensive experience in Saudi Arabia and Jordan, designing and implementing individualized behavioral and educational programs, conducting comprehensive behavioral assessments, and providing parent and teacher training on evidence-based ABA strategies.

Her work emphasizes educational and social inclusion, fostering independence, and supporting each child to reach their full potential in a safe and nurturing environment.

Fatimah Ilyas is a Counseling Psychologist and Applied Behavior Analysis Technician at ABC Learning and Diagnostic Center, where she has been an integral member of the therapeutic team for the past three years. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology from Lahore College for Women University and a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Management and Technology, Lahore. In 2024, she obtained her Applied Behavior Analysis Technician (ABAT) certification from the QABA Board.

With over five years of professional experience in the fields of psychology, special education, and behavioral therapy, Ms. Ilyas specializes in providing individualized therapeutic and behavioral support to children with developmental, emotional, and learning challenges. Her work is guided by evidence-based practices, empathy, and a holistic understanding of each child’s unique potential.

Fluent in Arabic, English, and Urdu, she effectively bridges communication with families from diverse cultural backgrounds, ensuring accessible, compassionate, and culturally responsive care. Her areas of expertise include applied behavior analysis, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), child and adolescent development, and parent counseling and support.

Arlene Lamatsch has two master’s degrees — one in Education from an American institution, Temple University Japan campus, and another in Counseling Psychology (with honors) from Yorkville University in Canada. She is a certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT), a credentialed Applied Behavioral Analysis Technician (ABAT), and has more than 20 years of experience in counseling.

Before moving to Saudi Arabia, Arlene was a Lecturer at universities in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and Bilingualism and Identity. She has also worked with students from kindergarten to retired professionals. Arlene is most passionate about Counseling and Psychotherapy and draws transferable skills from being a Certified Yoga Instructor, plus her favorite hobby, theater arts.

With over 15 years of extensive clinical experience, Umaiza Bashir is a dedicated Clinical Psychologist specializing in psychological assessment and intervention across diverse populations. She holds an MS in Clinical Psychology from Government College University (GCU), Lahore, Pakistan, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Psychology at Lahore College for Women University (LCWU), Pakistan.

Her clinical expertise includes working with children and adolescents with developmental delays such as Autism, ADHD, Intellectual Disability, ODD, as well as Learning Difficulties and complex psychosocial challenges. She also provides psychological support to adults experiencing a wide range of neurotic and psychotic disorders.

Umaiza Bashir is proficient in conducting advanced neurodevelopmental, cognitive, behavioural, and personality assessments. She is trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Behaviour Therapy (BT), Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychoanalysis. She develops and implements comprehensive, evidence-based treatment plans and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) tailored to individual needs. In addition to her clinical practice, she has over 10 years of academic experience, including postgraduate-level teaching and professional supervision of trainee clinical psychologists.

Currently, Umaiza is actively working toward international certification as Applied Behaviour Analysis Technician (ABAT). Her approach to psychological and behavioural intervention is grounded in ethical practice, clinical sensitivity, and a thorough case formulation process. She emphasizes compassionate, culturally informed, and scientific methods to support children in achieving their full developmental potential.

A creative occupational therapist at ABC center. certified and registered from the Saudi Commission For Health Specialists, I’m passionate about what I do, my mission is to provide best evidence-based practice, in order to increase overall wellbeing status of the community.

In 2018, I held a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy from Princess Nora university. Certified in feeding therapy. Interested/took courses in visual and cognitive rehabilitation for children and adults. Working experience since 2018. In 2017-2018, I worked on the early detection and intervention for autism project, one of my goals is to further develop the project to be available for a larger group of the community to benefit from.

Licensed and registered by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS), I am dedicated to empowering children to achieve their full independence. My mission is to apply evidence-based interventions, integrating cognitive, sensory, and fine motor skills to enhance functional performance and the overall quality of life for individuals.
I graduated from Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (PNU) with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours – Second Class). My practical experience includes intensive training at major healthcare facilities such as King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz University Hospital and Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Humanitarian City, where I gained broad expertise in rehabilitation.
I hold a wide range of professional certifications covering niche specializations, including Sensory Issues, and expertise in standardized pediatric assessments (such as Berry-VMI, TVPS, Sensory Profile, SPM). I continuously strive to advance my practice to ensure the delivery of the highest level of comprehensive care.

Academic Department Staff

Head of the Arabic Language Department in the Academic Division, with over 12 years of experience in education and educational management. I specialize in teaching Arabic and designing intervention plans for students with learning difficulties, and I hold an advanced diploma in this field. I have experience in planning and delivering lessons according to modern curricula, managing and evaluating team performance, and developing educational programs. I also hold an official license to administer intelligence tests to accurately assess students’ abilities and needs. I am skilled in effective communication with colleagues and parents, working efficiently under pressure, and making professional educational and administrative decisions.

I am Ghazal Radwan, a Saudi national who is inspired and passionate about teaching children of all kinds. I am the Head of the English Academic Department. I graduated from John Cabot University in Rome, Italy with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Humanistic Studies. My goal is to focus on the growth of child development in the education field. My role in ABC Diagnostic and Learning Center is a certified Lindamood-Bell English teacher for children with English difficulty (dyslexia, autism spectrum disorders, or general learning challenges). Furthermore, I am a specialized examiner for the Woodcock Johnson IV assessment exam. Studies have shown that much of what children learn, they learn when they are very young, thus, my greatest inspiration is to plant a seed of knowledge for all children.

An educational professional for over 12 years, Afreen has been serving as a Special educator and ABC Diagnostic and Learning Center for 5 years. With a vast range of responsibilities, she has a tremendous ability to cope with the pressures and challenges that come with them including the competency to plan, organize and adapt to varying teaching/management scenarios. She has contributed to the successful CARF accreditation survey and remains an invaluable member of the team at ABC.

Bachelor degree special education – learning disability – KSU.

Excellence award – Society learning disabilities for 3 years.

Made (ملعقة) educational game.

Holds a Bachelor’s degree in Arabic Language from Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University with honors. She has experience in teaching special education students and has been trained in teaching Arabic using a multisensory approach and an evidence-based program to improve phonological awareness, reading, and spelling skills. She is also trained in implementing (Asmaa Horoufy) program strategies.

I have over seven years of experience in the academic field, specializing in Curricula and Teaching Methods for Early Grades. I have worked with students of varying levels, including those with learning difficulties and special needs. My experience includes designing and implementing individualized education plans tailored to students’ academic needs, utilizing diverse programs to support and strengthen Arabic language skills and improve overall learning outcomes.

A dedicated special educator with a Bachelor’s degree in Languages and Translation from the Department of Applied Linguistics at Princess Noura University, where she graduated with Second Class Honors. Her passion lies in providing children of all ages with a strong foundation in English, enabling them to thrive in their learning journeys. Her commitment to fostering inclusive education reflects her belief in the transformative power of language

Clinical Psychologist with over seven years of experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, as well as learning and developmental disorders. She applies evidence-based techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support clients in achieving emotional well-being and personal growth.

Abeer holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Beaconhouse National University, Pakistan, where she graduated with Distinction in Research. She also successfully cleared the Registered Behavior Technician (ABAT) exam in 2021.

In addition to her psychology and behavior therapy background, Abeer has hands-on training in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. This combination of skills allows her to design personalized intervention and learning plans that meet the diverse needs of every student. She believes in identifying each child’s unique strengths and using them as a foundation to scaffold their progress—ensuring every learner is supported on an individualized path to success.

BrainRx Department

Head of the BrainRx Department, brings over nine years of invaluable experience as a Certified Brain Trainer through BrainRx International. Her academic foundation includes a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Health Science from the University of Western Ontario, Canada. Further enhancing her expertise, Heba is also a trained ABA Therapist, certified by the New England Center for Children (ACE).

In her leadership role, Heba additionally serves as the CARF Liaison, a position in which she meticulously ensures the center’s unwavering compliance with CARF accreditation standards. Her strong commitment to maintaining the highest quality of services highlights her deep dedication to client well-being, staff development, and the mission of the center.

Heba is passionate about empowering individuals in their educational and personal development through the application of evidence-based cognitive training. Her primary mission is to significantly enhance core cognitive skills across all age groups, promoting greater awareness of brain health and the transformative power of cognitive training.

She has utilized her experience to modify and adapt BrainRx programs to meet the unique needs of diverse learners, ensuring equal access and opportunities for measurable cognitive growth.

Holds a bachelor degree in Social Work and currently works as an English Special Educator from Lindamood-Bell learning processes/ BrainRx-AccelerateRx Certified Trainer, her passion revolves around working with children, and helping them gain the skills that they need to enhance their language and cognitive skills. She did her college training in ABC Diagnostic and Learning center and found her passion working with children. She is patient, loving, and aims at empowering her students to gain the confidence that they need to speak English confidently, because she believes that all students are capable of learning and hopes to make a difference in her students lives.BrainRX Trainer .

Aisha Ashmemry is an English Language and Literature graduate and a certified Applied Behavior Analysis Technician (ABAT) from QABA. She currently works as a BrainRx Trainer, supporting learners in developing cognitive skills and academic performance, while continuing to expand her expertise in education and human development.

Ghina is a qualified trainer for the BrainRX – AccelerateRX program, which helps children enhance their cognitive and learning abilities. She also provides special educational needs sessions tailored to each child’s ability and needs. Ghina earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Üsküdar University in Turkey. She got extensive experience through internships where she worked closely with children with autism, ADHD, learning difficulties, and social-emotional challenges. She is passionate about child development, educational psychology, and creating supportive environments that promote growth and confidence in all students.

A passionate Psychologist with a Master’s in Cognitive Neuropsychology from the University of Kent, England and professional experience in the field of Brain Injury within the NHS in the United Kingdom. Her expertise lies in understanding the relationship between brain function and behavior, applying evidence-based psychological interventions to support cognitive and emotional recovery. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with First Class Honours and has extensive experience in psychometric testing, counselling, and therapeutic interventions including CBT, DBT, ABA, and the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP). She has also worked as a School Counsellor, providing psychological support to students, parents, and teachers through individual sessions, group interventions, and mental health programs. Zahra is passionate about promoting mental well-being and utilizes a compassionate, client-centered approach to help individuals achieve meaningful progress in their personal and psychological growth. Her research, “Impact of Fear and Anxiety on Prosocial Behaviour when reward is involved” examined how emotional states influence cognitive function, empathy and helping behaviours.

Shadow Department Staff

Alhanouf AlShehri holds a Bachelor’s degree in Languages and Translation with First-Class Honors, and has completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Child Mental Health from Massachusetts General Hospital – Psychiatry Academy, in collaboration with Alfaisal University. Her mission is to promote mental health awareness by training children, families, and adolescence on how to live balanced, fulfilling lives through practical strategies that enhance emotional resilience and well-being, equally dedicated to fostering inclusion in schools. She continuously works on developing and improving the Shadow Department’s services to meet the diverse needs of all students with professionalism, empathy, and excellence.

Holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, with extensive experience working with youth, families, and communities. She has worked with organizations such as the Palestinian Counseling Center, Tomorrow’s Youth Organization, YMCA, and Defense for Children International, where she provided psychological and social counseling, family support, and implemented community programs and initiatives.
Amal has also trained volunteers and university students on family intervention and social planning. She has received advanced training in youth leadership, applied mental health, resilience programs, and psychotherapy techniques (EMDR).
She demonstrates strong professional competence in serving individuals and communities effectively.

A licensed psychologist at ABC Diagnostic and Learning Center in Riyadh. Holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with honors (GPA 4.73) and a license from the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties. Certified in the 40-hour ABA training by QABA. Skilled in assessing children’s behavior, designing individualized support plans, and applying structured therapeutic strategies. Brings a solid professional foundation that supports building effective therapeutic relationships.

Tuba Awliya is a compassionate therapist and educator dedicated to supporting special needs children. She holds a degree in English Literature from Arab Open University in Riyadh.

With expertise as an ABA practitioner and BrainRX trainer, and shadow teacher Tuba has spent three years at ABC Center in Riyadh, empowering children with unique needs. As a Math teacher and shadow teacher, she provides personalized support, fostering academic growth and confidence.

Master’s Researcher in Behavioral and Emotional Disorders ,Bachelor of Behavioral Disorders and Autism, Course in Applied Behavior Analysis – 40 hours.

Afnan Alzahrani is a Psychologist who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University and is certified by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties. With over three years of hands-on experience in providing psychological support and care, she is highly skilled in conducting and interpreting psychological assessments, designing customized treatment plans, preparing comprehensive case studies, and implementing effective behavior modification strategies. She also possesses a demonstrated ability to support children across diverse environments.

Holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Psychology with excellent distinction from Passion International University, USA.
Currently undergoing training to obtain the certified 40-hour Registered Behavior
Technician (RBT) diploma. Has four years of experience working as a shadow teacher at A B C Center Riyadh .

Education
* Master’s Degree in Mental Health, Kafrelsheikh University, 2023.
* Special Diploma in Education, Specialization: Mental Health, 2018.
* Professional Diploma in Education, Specialization: Special Education, 2017.
* General Diploma in Education, 2016.
* Bachelor of Arts (Licentiate) in Principles of Religion and Islamic Da’wah, Al-Azhar University, 2015.
Experience & Certifications
* Extensive experience in dealing with various cases of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome, speech delay, hearing impairment, and cochlear implant cases.
* Certificate of completion for a 40-hour training course from ABAT (Applied Behavior Analysis Technician), 2025.

Holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a Very Good grade and Honors from Assiut University.
Soon to obtain certification as an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Technician.
I have over four years of experience in teaching and training children with special needs, driven by a strong passion for helping them develop and acquire the skills necessary to reach their full potential.

Diploma in Occupational Therapy Specialist (40 hours) with Excellent grade – Ain Shams University

Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Sciences with Good grade – Mansoura University

Diploma in Sensory Integration – Ain Shams University

Diploma in Autism Principles – Ain Shams University

Currently enrolled in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Technician Diploma (40 hours, accredited)

Our Staff

Management Staff

Natalie Ghattas

Marwa Hashim

Mariam Batisha

ِEarly Intervention Department Staff

Sara Nazneen

Ghadah Mahrougi

Fay Alabdulqader

Afnan AlMubaddel

Raghad AlHammad​

Reem Aljaloud

Areej bin Hadlan

Bayan Alharir

Nada Alhabs

Afrah Alkhatib

Noor Othman

Fatimah Ilyas

Arlene Lamatsch

Umaiza Bashir

Tasneem Alhawsawi ​

Shaden Alotaibi

Academic Department Staff

Khadejeh Hennawi

Ghazal Radwan

Afreen Meera

Shaikha Altuwijri

Noura Alshuwaier

Bayan Al Humaidi

Areen Alsuwailmi

Abir Shaikh Malik

BrainRx Department

Heba Ibrahim

Haifa Al Shehri

Aisha Ashmimry

Ghina Sukar

Zahra Tausif

Shadow Department Staff

Alhanouf AlShehri

Amal Sulaiman

Aseel Alharbi

Tuba Awliya

Amal Alhaidan

Afnan Alzahrani

Mohammed Talaat

Mohamed Farghaly

Ali El-Beblawy

Ibrahim Metwali

Raghad AlHammad

Tasneem Alhawsawi