Today we’d like to introduce you to Karri Wilson.
Hi Karri, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey into Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy began at home, with my own family. As a mother to a son with learning differences, I experienced firsthand the challenges families face when their children need more individualized support. That personal experience, combined with my background as a teacher and principal in Dallas, shaped my desire to create something different—something better—for children with autism and learning challenges.
I wanted to build a school that could bridge the gap between traditional education and therapeutic support. A place where barriers to learning could be removed and children’s academic strengths could thrive, no matter how they communicate. I envisioned an environment that addressed behavioural needs while nurturing the whole child—socially, emotionally, and academically. When I realised how many children on the autism spectrum were underserved in our community, I knew I had to take action. I didn’t want to create just another therapy center. I wanted to create a place where children would feel safe, understood, and empowered to succeed.
That vision became a reality more than twelve years ago when I opened Marigold Learning Academy in Rockwall. What began as a small, deeply personal mission has since grown into five locations across the Dallas–Fort Worth area, each offering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy within thoughtfully designed, child-centered learning environments. Along the way, Marigold has expanded to include innovative programs such as animal-assisted therapy at our ranch and our newest center in White Rock.
As Marigold has grown, my mission has remained the same: to provide a compassionate, personalised approach to ABA therapy that honor’s each child’s unique strengths. Every child deserves to be seen, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive—and that belief continues to guide everything we do at Marigold.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Has the journey been smooth? Not at all. Like any mission-driven organization, Marigold has faced its share of challenges—some unexpected, some deeply defining.
Early on, an ice storm devastated our very first location in Rockwall when 26 pipes burst and caused extensive damage throughout the building. What could have stopped us instead revealed the heart of our team. In just one week, our staff came together, salvaged what they could, and relocated the entire program to a temporary space so our children could continue receiving services while the original location was rebuilt. That moment showed me that Marigold was never just a building—it was the people inside it.
COVID-19 brought a different kind of challenge. Like many schools and therapy centers, we attempted to navigate virtual learning platforms in an effort to maintain continuity of care. After months of trial, reflection, and honest evaluation, I made the difficult decision to step away from virtual programming. It simply was not in the best interest of the children we serve. Instead, we adapted our in-person programs with thoughtful modifications, always prioritizing safety while honoring what our children truly needed to learn and thrive.
Each struggle forced me to pause, reflect, and lead with clarity. More importantly, it gave me the opportunity to celebrate a team that consistently understands our core belief: Marigold is not for the teachers—it is for the children. This is their school. Every decision we make—how we design spaces, mold programs, and navigate change—is done through the eyes of our clients.
Those challenges didn’t slow us down; they strengthened our foundation. They reminded me why Marigold exists and reinforced the values that continue to guide us forward.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At the core of my work is creating meaningful, individualized support for children with autism and learning differences. I am the founder of Marigold Learning Academy, a 100% woman-owned organization providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy and integrated educational programming designed to support the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and functionally.
What sets Marigold apart is the lens through which our programs are built. My background as a classroom teacher and school principal continues to shape everything we do. I approach ABA through an educational framework, creating environments that feel like school, not therapy rooms, and preparing children to transition successfully into natural learning settings. Over the years, I have expanded my training as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), with advanced certifications in Autism, Animal Assisted Psychotherapy and I am currently pursuing my doctoral degree to further strengthen my leadership and mentorship work.
I am most proud of the culture and community we have built. Marigold is known for its compassionate, personalised approach, strong internal mentorship, and partnerships with colleges to support internships and workforce development. Every decision we make—how we design programs, support families, and grow our team—is guided by one belief: this school is not for the adults; it is for the children.
What does success mean to you?
I define success by the impact we have on children and families, not by numbers or growth alone. Success is seeing a child find their voice—whether through words, AAC, or behavior—and gain the confidence to engage with the world around them. It’s watching children transition into classrooms, form relationships, and develop the skills they need to navigate life with greater independence.
Success also means staying true to our mission, even when it’s difficult. It’s making decisions that prioritize what is best for the child, supporting families through complex journeys, and creating environments where children feel safe, understood, and celebrated for who they are.
On a broader level, success is building a team that leads with compassion and integrity, and a culture where everyone understands that this school is not for the adults—it belongs to the children. When we consistently make decisions through the eyes of our clients and see them thrive, that is success to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://MarigoldABA.com
- Instagram: @marigoldabatherapy
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/marigoldABA
