At PAL, we work with individuals of various ages. We use a variety of methods to increase communication, play/leisure, social, academic, self-help, and motor skills while decreasing challenging behaviors.
We believe each child is unique and consider their strengths, needs, and interests when developing goals and programs. We also value the families' schedule, priorities and culture when programming and matching a therapist with a client.
All programs are developed with input from the family to determine what is important for the individual child and family. We believe in teaching children to self-advocate in ways that others can understand so that their needs can be met.
We not only see children at our clinic, but work in homes, daycares and community locations in Harford County and Cecil County, MD depending on the needs of individuals and their families and approval from their insurance.
We are proud to offer a 'blended program' that includes sessions in various locations for those that have needs in multiple environments.
Our Approach
Our Team.
Sarah Craley
PAL Founder & Director
MA, BCBA, LBA
BA: Music Therapy
MA: Applied Behavior Analysis with a certificate in Autism
Sarah began her career in 2001 working as a paraprofessional and substitute teacher in an ABA classroom while becoming a Board Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC). As a BCABA she helped create ABA classrooms in public schools across Eastern Connecticut.
Upon moving to Maryland in 2011, she gave up her MT-BC and became a BCBA & LBA. After recognizing the need for services in the area, she opened PAL in 2018.
Sarah is passionate about helping individuals and families make connections to their communities and develop skills that support independence and safety.
When not working, Sarah enjoys baking, playing music, and spending time with her husband and 3 teenagers.
Melodie Cobb-Miller
MA, BCBA, LBA
BA: Sociology, minor in Psychology
MA: Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis
Melodie began working in special education and social services in 2015, supporting individuals with disabilities in residential programs, early childhood education, case management, and advocacy roles.
After transitioning into ABA in 2021, she gained experience in both home- and clinic-based settings across Tennessee before moving to Maryland in 2023 when she joined PAL as an RBT and student analyst.
Melodie enjoys supporting children and families through compassionate, individualized care rooted in trauma-informed, assent-based practices. She has a strong interest in exploring assessments and curricula and supporting underserved populations. Her focus is on helping clients build skills that foster independence and enhance quality of life.
When not working, Melodie enjoys reading, writing, and crafting, as well ashiking, camping, and adventuring with her husband. She is also currently learning conversational French.
Lauren Tull
MA, BCBA, LBA
BA: Elementary & Special Education
MA: Applied Behavior Analysis
Lauren has been with PAL full time since June of 2025. Before that, she spent the past 6 years teaching general and special education with Harford County Public Schools.
Her passion in ABA is discovering the power of teaching individuals functional communication skills to help them get their wants and needs met in a variety of environments. She really enjoys watching clients grow and develop the skills they need to be successful in the world.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family including her husband, son, dog, cats, and nephews. During the warm months, she enjoys swimming and spending time in the water. In the winter months, she enjoys getting cozy and watching TV/movies with her husband!
What To Expect
PAL's director, Sarah Craley, has been providing ABA services to children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) since 2001. She started as a paraprofessional in an ABA program in Connecticut. In 2006 she became a BCABA and was consulting with families and schools to support children and adolescents. After moving to Maryland she became a master's level Licensed BCBA and opened PAL in Harford County Maryland.
Currently our services include direct therapy, consultation, program coordination, and family support. We are happy to attend IEP meetings with our clients' families and coordinate with other service providers. All services are supervised by a Licensed Board Certified Behavior Analyst and conducted by trained staff depending on the individual's needs.
