Our team
Anthony Gassman, M.A. ABA, BCBA, LBA
Owner / Executive Director
Welcome!
I’m so glad you’re here.
My name is Anthony Gassman, and I’m the owner and founder of River City Behavioral Health, LLC. I was born and raised right here in Spokane, Washington. My journey in education and behavioral health has taken me far and wide, but Spokane has always been home.
After graduating from West Valley High School (Go Eags!), I continued my education at North Idaho College (Go Cardinals!), Washington State University (Go Cougs!), and eventually earned my Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University—yes, another set of Cardinals!
Following my last graduation in 2020, I began my clinical career in Northern Idaho, working as a Clinical Supervisor at an incredible developmental disability agency. I’m so grateful for the hands-on experience and thorough training I received there, which supported me in completing the 1,500 supervision hours required to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
In 2023, I accepted a Clinical Director position at an agency in Oklahoma, where I spent over two and a half years helping expand services across the state from Oklahoma City to Tulsa while simultaneously laying the groundwork for River City. That journey brought countless learning experiences and exposed me to diverse approaches to care.
In 2024, I stepped into the role of Director of Clinical Operations for a bi-regional agency serving both Northern California and Eastern Washington. It was there that I gained valuable insights into the California model of therapy—insights that I’ve carried with me into every aspect of River City Behavioral Health LLC.
River City is the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and a deep passion for serving children with developmental disabilities. My mission is simple: to provide high-quality, evidence-based behavioral health services that empower families and help children live more independent, fulfilling lives.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time on my little homestead here in Spokane. I share it with two amazing dogs (Missy and Kona), five charming chickens (Hennifer, Sharyl, Huffle, Morticia, and Bino), two energetic Nigerian dwarf goats (Buckley and Bernie), and a thriving garden.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and the heart behind River City Behavioral Health. It would be our honor to support you and your family on your journey. Please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help!
Warmly,
Anthony Gassman
Founder & BCBA / LBA
River City Behavioral Health, LLC
Daniel Wong M.S. ABA, BCBA, LBA
Director of Clinical Operations
My name is Daniel Wong and I have been in the field of ABA for about 8 years now. I began my career with a Psychology degree from the University of Nevada Reno where I was first exposed to the science of Applied Behavior Analysis. I worked for a few years with both adults and children as a Registered Behavior Technician before going for a Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis from Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland. After graduating in 2021, I became Board Certified as a Behavior Analyst in 2022 and worked in Ireland for a time supporting kids and teenagers with autism. I left Ireland in 2024 and did telehealth for an early intervention clinic until moving to Spokane in June of 2026. I have a wide range of experience working with kids and teenagers with autism. I focus on compassion and understanding for all my clients no matter the circumstances and strive towards long term meaningful outcomes. My other passions include rock climbing, where I spend a bulk of my free time, and reading, writing, and being outdoors whenever I can.
Michelle Danico, M.S. ABA, BCBA, LBA
Lead BCBA / LBA & Clinical Trainer
Hello everyone! I was born in Michigan State but raised in Spokane, Washington. I completed all of her higher education while living in Spokane with my children. I graduated from Rogers High School then completed my Bachelors of Science at Eastern Washington University. From there, I worked towards my Master's Degree in Psychology with an Emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis at Cappella University. I completed my education while working and being a mom.
After completing my masters, I began working in the field as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. My time in the field has given her experience working with families and children from the ages of just under two to over twenty years old.
I am excited to accept the position of Lead BCBA / LBA & Clinical Trainer with River City Behavioral Health, LLC. I am eager to continue working with families in the Spokane area. As a mom of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, I am passionate about providing care that supports every individual in reaching their best version of life, whatever that may look like. My hobbies include reading, creating art, and spending time with my husband, three children, and two dogs.
Joana Oronia, M.S. Psychology with an emphasis in ABA, LABA
Clinical Supervisor
Brandon Boelter
Director of Administration / Scheduling (Spokane)
Managing CBT
My name is Brandon Boelter. I have resided in the Spokane area for approximately 12 years. After several years working in an Emergency Room, I decided to pursue a different career path. I began my career in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in California. I attended College of the Redwoods and subsequently gained experience working with children, teens, and adults. I also served as Vice President on a three-county Board of Directors for two years, where I helped oversee services for clients with various developmental disabilities. During that experience, I was exposed to numerous diverse approaches to care in all aspects of clients' needs. My approach involves understanding clients and their circumstances, building relationships/rapport to help support them and create positive outcomes.
Upon relocating to Spokane, I facilitated the opening of several group homes in the area, I also accepted a position as Program Manager at an ABA clinic, working with both Northern California and Eastern Washington.
I love my position of Director of administration (Scheduling and Managing CBT) for Spokane County with River City Behavioral Health, LLC. I look forward to continuing my work with families in the Spokane community. My experience in the field has provided me with valuable insight working with families and individuals of all ages.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends when I can, helping kids grow, (As I am a foster parent to two kids), hiking, and any summer outdoor activities.
Maggie Bates, CBT
Administrative assistant / Stevens County Scheduler
My name is Maggie Bates, and since 2021, I have had the privilege of working in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis, supporting individuals with autism or other developmental disabilities for many years now. As a Certified Behavior Technician at River City Behavioral Health, I provide direct support by implementing individualized behavior support plans, collecting and reporting data, and helping individuals build meaningful communication and life skills.
In addition to my work as a CBT, I provide scheduling and administrative support, helping coordinate schedules and communicate with parents, caregivers, schools, and team members to ensure families receive consistent and effective services.
What I value most about my work is the opportunity to serve and support families in my community. I believe in building strong and respectful relationships and approaching each family with compassion, professionalism, and genuine care.
I am currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology with a focus in Applied Behavior Analysis through Capella University and expect to graduate by the end of the year. I look forward to continuing to grow in the field and making a positive difference in the lives of the individuals and families I serve.
In my free time, you can find me spending time with my family, including my two children, and my friends. I also enjoy learning, a reason that I decided to go back to school to learn more about a field that I fell in love with.