WHO
WE ARE
We are like-minded professionals who envision a path forward to treating regulation issues FASTER and with long lasting results through integrative therapies based on advances in neuroscience.
TEAM MEMBERS.
Lisa S. Kovitch, MA, BCBA, LPC
Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa S. Kovitch, MA, BCBA, LPC
Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Kovitch is the dedicated Director and Founder of Grain of Sand Academy, a non-profit organization that significantly enhances the quality of life for children with autism by providing expert Therapeutic Horsemanship, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) services. Holding a BA from Brandeis University and an MA in Clinical Psychology from Temple University, Lisa is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her expertise is further solidified by extensive ongoing training in ABA from the Florida Institute of Technology, complemented by continuous education in autism and psychology.
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Beyond her clinical leadership, Lisa is a recognized writer and editor, with articles published in diverse outlets including MIDSTREAM and The Jerusalem Coloring Book. She is fluent in both Hebrew and English, and actively contributes to her community as a Hebrew language teacher, leader, and volunteer for causes she champions. Through Grain of Sand Academy, Lisa applies her profound knowledge and compassionate approach, equipping staff with cutting-edge practices to provide each child with essential behavioral skills for adaptation and growth within the framework of these specialized therapies. She is particularly proud of the Academy's new location at Nuriel's Farm in Eagleville, TN, expanding their reach and services.
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Lisa is always available for your questions and concerns so that we can work together to fulfill our MISSION:
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"To broaden the horizons of the children we serve so that they can become lifelong learners."
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She can be reached at 404.400.2524
Thank you for visiting.
The Grain of Sand Academy is a Non-Profit 501(c)(3) organization (#83-1797664)
Amber Tinker
Resident Shepherdess, Chicken Expert & Animal Handler
As Nuriel's Farm's full-time Shepherdess, chicken expert, and Animal Handler, Amber Tinker brings a wealth of hands-on experience. Originally from Bell Buckle, Amber is deeply committed to the homesteading lifestyle. She expertly manages her own growing homestead, home to a vibrant flock of chickens and six sheep, with plans for rabbit expansion. Amber also demonstrates her creative talents through her independent art business, alongside her interests in gardening, crafting, and taxidermy.
The Grain of Sand Academy is a Non-Profit 501(c)(3) organization (#83-1797664)
Sal Landa
Master Equine Horsemanship Instructor
We're excited to have Sal Landa join us regularly. Sal's impressive career began with a Phys Ed major at Florida State, leading to his role as a hand-to-hand combat instructor for the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, NC. After graduating from the National Fire Academy in Education Methodology, he embarked on a 29-year tenure with the City of Miami Fire and Rescue, serving for over two decades as a firefighter paramedic lieutenant. Sal also shared his knowledge as a Florida State Fire Service instructor, teaching at Miami Fire Rescue College and Miami Dade Community College to support student retention. A testament to his athletic prowess, he captained the 1977 USA All Armed Forces Judo Team at the CISM (NATO countries) games. In recent decades, Sal has applied his unique skill set to his equine training facility, where he champions natural horsemanship. His dedicated work improves psycho-motor and coping skills for trainers, horses, and riders, including individuals with Autism and other disabilities.
The Grain of Sand Academy is a Non-Profit 501(c)(3) organization (#83-1797664)
Lili Snow
Animal Caretaker
Hi, I’m Lili! I’m an animal caretaker at Nuriel’s farm, as well as a student at the University of Tennessee pursuing a career in veterinary medicine! Prior to the farm, I gained animal experience working at a local animal hospital and at the Nashville Zoo. My favorite part of the job is learning the unique personalities of each animal, and building lasting relationships with both people and our farm friends!
The Grain of Sand Academy is a Non-Profit 501(c)(3) organization (#83-1797664)
Katherine King
Horse Trainer
Meet Katherine King, the newest full-time horse trainer on our team! A recent Berry College graduate, Katherine brings over a decade of experience riding and training horses. She's passionate about sharing her love for equines, especially with young riders, and will be teaching horsemanship to the children in our program. Katherine's background includes serving as a horse camp counselor and lesson instructor for children of all ages.
Committed to expanding her expertise, Katherine is currently completing certifications as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and as an Instructor of Riders with Disabilities. An accomplished rider herself, she's successfully competed her own horse up to Beginner Novice in Eventing and First Level in Dressage. Katherine is an active member of the American Connemara Pony Society, United States Pony Club, and the Central Tennessee Dressage Association. In her free time, she enjoys riding her beloved horse, Rain, of nine years, as well as painting, rock climbing, and working out.
The Grain of Sand Academy is a Non-Profit 501(c)(3) organization (#83-1797664)
