Research Assistants

Ellen Choi is the Senior Research Assistant for the PEERS® Educational Classes and the PEERS® Certified Training Seminars. She is in her final year at the University of California, Santa Barbara, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Psychological Brain Sciences. After obtaining her degree, Ellen intends to pursue a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology, and her career interests include clinical assessment and intervention of autistic young adults.

Dahlia Kirov recently graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a bachelor's of science in physiological psychology and a minor in applied developmental psychology. She serves as a senior research assistant for the PEERS for Preschoolers program, facilitating research and clinical operations involving PEERS' preschool-aged cohorts. In addition to PEERS, Dahlia works as a clinical research assistant at UCLA's Child OCD Anxiety and Tic Disorders program. where she primarily supports experimental therapeutic studies on ADHD, Tics, and Insomnia. Her research interests include psychiatric comorbidity in childhood and adolescence, as well as evidence-based transdiagnostic supports for children experiencing psychopathology.

Sahar Shirbacheh is a senior research assistant and behavioral coach in the PEERS® for Adolescents and PEERS® for Young Adults groups. She graduated UCLA with a bachelor’s in Psychology and a minor in Disability Studies. She currently works as a behavioral therapist for young children with autism and hopes to pursue a career in Clinical Psychology. Her current research interests include developing interventions for individuals with ADHD and improving mental health accessibility for disabled youth.

Laurie Smith is a senior research assistant and behavioral coach at the UCLA PEERS Clinic. She has been involved in the PEERS for Adolescents, PEERS for Young Adults, and PEERS for Careers programs, where she also supports data entry and management for ongoing research projects. Laurie earned her B.A. in Psychology from UCLA and plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology to further her research career. Her clinical and research interests include neuropsychology, language and behavioral development in neurodiverse youth, and the diagnosis and treatment of neurodevelopmental conditions. Outside of PEERS, Laurie works at a child development center, where she supports children with diverse needs before and after school. Her primary research interest focuses on autism and its underlying causes.

Natalie is a research assistant supporting the PEERS Virutal Social Skills Classes and Summer Bootcamps. After graduating from Northwestern University with a degree in Human Development and Psychological Services, Natalie completed Teach For America in the Bay Area and earned her Master’s in Special Education. She is currently a Resource Specialist for LAUSD working with students in grades K-5. In her free time, Natalie enjoys going to the beach and walking her (very old) dogs.

Aishwarya Manga is currently an undergraduate student at UCLA pursuing a degree in Psychobiology (B.S.). She hopes to attend medical school following graduation. She is passionate about advancing research and interventions for neurodevelopmental disorders, fostering both academic and real-world growth. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys dancing, running, and playing guitar.

Aanchal Patel (she/her) is a third-year Cognitive Science major at UCLA. She serves primarily as a PEERS research assistant and behavioral coach for the PEERS Young Adult groups. She also contributes to the PEERS for Careers social media team. Aanchal aspires to pursue a healthcare career, focusing on supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Warsha is currently a Human Biology and Society majoring student at UCLA. She is a rising junior involved in various campus activities, including serving as the Internal Communications Director at the UNICEF branch at UCLA, a Researcher Director of the Student Education and Research on Contemporary Health organization, and a Logistical Director of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, a nationwide organization supporting blood cancer patients! To gain insight and experience in healthcare, Warsha serves as a Student Intern and Volunteer at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, and proudly serves her role as a clinical research assistant with the PEERS Clinic for Pre-Schoolers at the Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior at UCLA!

Hannah is a Behavioral Specialist and a third-year Psychology (B.S.) student at UCR. She plans to continue her education, ultimately pursuing a PhD in neuroscience. Her goal is to work in the field of neuropsychology, applying research to better understand and support individuals with diverse neurological profiles. In her role as a Research Assistant and Behavioral Coach, she will support the PEERS for Preschoolers program, helping facilitate social skills groups and contribute to participant learning.

Emily Benjamin is a fourth year undergraduate student at UCLA, pursuing a degree in Psychology, with a minor in LGBTQ studies. Emily is a Research Assistant and Behavioral Coach for PEERS, and was a volunteer in the PEERS for Dating program. After graduating, she hopes to attend graduate school to become a Marriage and Family Therapist. Emily is also involved in a mental health organization on campus called Active Minds, which aims to de-stigmatize the conversation around mental illness.

Elanor Armstrong is a 3rd year undergraduate student at UCLA, majoring in Psychobiology with a minor in Disability Studies. Elanor is deeply passionate about fostering inclusion and advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. At UCLA, she is actively involved in organizations such as Best Buddies, Special Olympics, and the Special Patient Care Initiative. After completing her undergraduate studies, Elanor plans to pursue a career in medicine with the hopes of providing compassionate, specialized care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Elanor will be a Volunteer Behavioral Coach in the Tuesday PEERS Educational Classes. Elanor is thrilled to be part of the PEERS community and looks forward to contributing her energy and enthusiasm while continuing to learn and grow.

Noah Simon is a research assistant and behavioral coach for UCLA PEERS® educational classes. He previously served as a research assistant in California State University, Long Beach’s Community Autism Research for Equity (CARE) Lab and Community Psychology Lab. A recent graduate with a B.A. in Psychology, he plans to pursue a master’s degree in educational psychology. Noah is passionate about advancing equity for neurodiverse and other underrepresented student populations through research and practice. He is committed to creating inclusive learning environments that better address diverse learner needs. He hopes to contribute to a world that recognizes the potential of neurodiverse minds and the value of unique thinkers.

Paul Dong is a third-year UCLA student pursuing a double major in Psychology and Sociology. Paul currently serves as a research assistant for the PEERS® for Adolescents group and has previously served as a research assistant for the PEERS® for Dating Study. His research interests include social functioning, autism, and culturally responsive approaches to mental health. After graduating, he hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a focus on developing individualized interventions that empower neurodiverse individuals to thrive. Outside of PEERS®, Paul is involved with the Anxiety and Depression Research Center, Level Up Solutions, and the Psi Chi International Honor Society.

Genevieve Ford is a fourth-year Psychology major at UCLA with an interest in clinical psychology and child development. After graduation, she plans to continue developing her research skills with the aspiration of obtaining a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology, aiming to help families and their children thrive. In her free time, she loves to cook, spend time at the lake or beach, and read a good book.

Emma Foroughi is a Research Assistant and Behavioral Coach for the UCLA PEERS for Adolescents Groups. She graduated from UCSB in 2024 with a Bachelor’s degree in psychological and brain sciences. She plans on attending a doctoral program in clinical psychology. Her primary clinical and research interests revolve around the misdiagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders in children and adolescents as well as the effect of the parent-child relationship on the expression of symptoms. Along with her work at the PEERS Clinic she also works as the clinical services manager at a psychological practice.

Arnoop is a 2nd-year UCLA Student majoring in Psychobiology and minoring in History. He is currently a research assistant/behavioral coach for PEERS for Preschoolers and has previously worked with PEERS for Adolescents and PEERS for Young Adults. He hopes to work in healthcare one day and is passionate about patient advocacy and interested in psychological and psychiatric conditions.

Julia is a fourth-year student at UCLA pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, with a minor in Science Education. At PEERS, she has served as a coach in the PEERS for Careers program. After graduation, she aspires to earn her Master of Education and teaching credential, with the eventual goal of teaching high school in the Los Angeles area. In her free time, she enjoys geocaching, crocheting, and watching any sport she can.

Metztli (Mets-lee) Perez is a fourth-year UCLA student double-majoring in Psychology and Disability Studies. Metztli currently serves as a senior research assistant for PEERS® for Adolescents. She aspires to become a Behavioral Interventionist, focusing primarily on working with children and youth, and later plans on pursuing a Master's in Social Work or Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA). Outside of PEERS®, Metztli interns at UCLA KidsConnect and Family, Adult, and Children Therapies (FACT), where she supports children and adults on the autism spectrum. In her spare time, Metztli loves to bake, cook, and play ‘cozy’ games such as Stardew Valley.

Michelle Cheng is a third-year undergraduate student at UCLA pursuing a BS in Psychobiology. She serves as a behavioral coach for the PEERS program, supporting Tuesday Educational Classes. Michelle is passionate about helping individuals with developmental disabilities build confidence, social skills, and meaningful connections. In her free time, she enjoys dancing and immersing herself in the arts.

Gisella is a research assistant and behavioral coach at the UCLA PEERS Clinic for the PEERS for Adolescents and Young Adult groups. She is currently a fourth-year UCLA student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychobiology. After graduating, Gisella hopes to continue working with the neurodivergent community and attend graduate school for clinical psychology. Her clinical interests focus on neuropsychology and both psychological and pharmacological approaches to improving mental health care.

Julia Mansour is a Research Assistant and Behavioral Coach at the UCLA PEERS Clinic. She recently graduated from California State University, Fullerton with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, where she also contributes to ongoing research. In addition, she works as a behavioral therapist providing ABA services to children. Julia plans to pursue a master’s degree in psychology and eventually a Ph.D. specializing in neuropsychology. Her research interests include autism, dementia, and traumatic brain injury.

Bailey Hobson is a research assistant and behavioral coach at the UCLA PEERS Clinic and works with PEERS for Adolescents. She graduated from UCLA with a B.A. in International Development Studies and a Music Industry minor. She hopes to attend graduate school for clinical psychology. Her clinical interests include providing an integrative, holistic, and individualized approach to accessible mental healthcare.

Sunia Song is a third-year Cognitive Science student at UCLA. She currently serves as a research assistant with the PEERS Clinic for Teens and Young Adults. In addition, she is a research assistant with the Anxiety and Depression Research Center at UCLA, the president of Mood Psychology @ UCLA, and a mentor with Wazo Connect. Sunia’s interests center on developmental psychopathology, as well as family-based and early interventions. She aspires to pursue a career as a therapist and clinical researcher dedicated to promoting mental health in diverse populations.

Ivy Xiao is a 2nd-year undergraduate student at UCLA majoring in cognitive science. She currently serves as a research assistant and behavioral coach for PEERS® for adolescents. Her research interests mainly lie in treatments for child and adolescent psychopathology, anxiety, and depression. She is passionate about improving current treatments and interventions and supporting their implementation. After she graduates, she plans to engage in post-bacc research and attend a doctoral program in clinical psychology. Outside of academic pursuits, she loves travelling, Chinese music, and art.

Divya Kumar is a third-year undergraduate student at UCLA double majoring in Cognitive Science and Statistics & Data Science. He serves as a behavioral coach and research assistant for PEERS® Clinical Young Adult Groups. He also works as a research assistant in UCLA's Multisensory Processing Lab, where he conducts participant sessions and has contributed to data management across various experimental modalities. His clinical and research interests include dissociative disorders, anxiety disorders, attachment theory, and developmental psychopathology. He plans to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, focusing on evidence-based assessment and intervention for adolescents and young adults experiencing anxiety and dissociative symptoms.

Anagha Dogiparthi is a first year undergraduate student at UCLA, pursuing a degree in Neuroscience with the intent of becoming a physician in the future. She is passionate about the intersection between neurological/psychological research and advocacy and hopes to learn how to create an environment where neurodiverse individuals can learn and grow together. Anagha hopes to address growing disparities to healthcare access in her career through science, policy, and research.

Miguel is a second year undergraduate at UCLA studying psychobiology, and he currently assists as a behavioral coach in the Peers for Preschoolers program. His research interests include early childhood intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as autism intervention models. After he graduates, Miguel plans on attending medical school to become a developmental-behavioral pediatrician. Outside of PEERS, Miguel loves to swim and capture/edit photos and videos.

Aidan Moore is a fourth-year undergraduate student at UCLA studying Psychology and Applied Mathematics. Aidan currently serves as a behavioral coach in PEERS for Adolescents groups. He plans to go to graduate school in clinical psychology, and is interested in substance use, trauma disorders, and generally the impact of adverse experiences on psychological outcomes. When not studying, Aidan enjoys watching movies, climbing, and drinking lots of coffee.

Nikki Shirazi earned her B.S. in Neuroscience from UCLA in 2025, graduating cum laude. She was a lead research assistant and coach for Dr. Ellis’ thinkSMART program and currently works with neurodivergent youth and adults across research and home-based settings during her gap year before medical school. A former PEERS for Adolescents participant, she now serves as a behavioral coach in the PEERS Educational Groups and Preschool programs while contributing to archival data research. She also supports a nonverbal autistic child using an AAC device through structured play and collaborates with his family to build communication and emotional regulation skills. Additionally, she tutors teens with ADHD and learning differences in math and science, integrating executive function coaching. Outside of work, Nikki enjoys crocheting, video games, hiking with her dog, and hot yoga.

Victor Ayaay is a third-year Cognitive Science major at UCLA. He currently serves as a research assistant for PEERS for Adolescents. Following graduation, he hopes to continue studying psychology and counseling in graduate school. Victor’s research interests include social psychology within autistic youth and their families and the origins of addiction.

Maya Makram is a fourth-year undergraduate student at UCLA, pursuing a degree in Psychology. Currently, Maya supports PEERS® as a research assistant and behavioral coach for the teen and young adult educational groups. After graduating, she hopes to pursue a graduate degree in clinical psychology to help those struggling with mental health disorders.

Gabriel Lavi graduated from New York University in the Spring of 2023 and is preparing to attend medical school. He volunteers as a research assistant and a behavioral coach with PEERS® for Young Adults and PEERS® for Adolescents, supporting individuals as they build social skills and navigate important life experiences. Gabriel was previously a college athlete and enjoys spending his free time exercising, writing, and spending quality time with his family.

Emma currently is a behavioral coach for PEERS® Virtual Social Skills Classes. Formally, Emma served as a Senior Research Assistant in Thursday PEERS® for Adolescents groups held online via Zoom and also served as a behavioral coach in PEERS® summer boot camps.

Erin French graduated from UCLA in 2025 with a B.S. in Human Biology and Society. She currently works as a hybrid research assistant for the PEERS® program, supporting both the Young Adults group and PEERS® for Adolescents. Erin is pursuing a future in dentistry and is passionate about increasing access to oral healthcare. She hopes to specialize in providing dental care that is inclusive, informed, and accessible to individuals from all backgrounds.

Paul Gregg is a third-year undergraduate student at UCLA studying Psychology and Art History. He serves as a research assistant and behavioral coach at the UCLA PEERS Clinic assisting PEERS for Adolescents and previously assisted PEERS for Dating. After he graduates, Paul hopes to pursue a graduate degree in clinical psychology. His research interests include affective neuroscience and creative intervention.

Andy Truong is a recent UCLA graduate in Psychology on the pre-medical track. He has served as a research assistant with the UCLA PEERS Clinic, supporting social skills groups and data collection. Outside of UCLA, he works as a medical assistant in a small urgent care clinic, where he helps with both front- and back-office patient care, and volunteers with community organizations such as MEMO supporting community-based health outreach initiatives. His interests include patient-centered care, neurodevelopment and social communication, and improving access to underserved children, adolescents, and their families.

Vincent Li is an undergraduate student at UCLA studying Psychobiology. He served as a Career Coach in the PEERS® Careers program. Interested in working with neurodivergent adolescents, he hopes to become a clinical psychologist in the future. Vincent currently works with the Online Social Skills Classes group as a hybrid research assistant. Outside of the lab, he enjoys playing story games, watching movies and shows with friends and family, and working at a coffee shop.