Jessica H. Franco, PhD, CCC-SLP, BCBA-D, joined the UTSHC as a Clinical Assistant Professor in summer, 2011. She holds degrees from the University of Kansas and University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Franco has focused her clinical practice and research on assessment and treatment of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). She founded a diagnostic and training center in San Antonio and has traveled as a consultant for schools and autism centers around the country. Dr. Franco has experience with a variety of approaches for teaching communication skills and methods for reducing severe challenging behaviors. She is active in many autism-related committees and boards, including the Texas Autism Resource and Research Center, Texas Autism Council Advisory Task Force, and the Autism Community Network.