Meet the Team
Marya Haff
Founder/ Director Marya received her Applied Behavior Analysis certification from Penn State in 2009. She holds a Masters in Early Childhood Education from Touro University with a NYS teacher license in general education for students with disabilities. She worked in Brooklyn as a lead teacher at a preschool for students diagnosed with behavioral disorders.
She moved to California to work as a clinical program supervisor/manager for multiple non public agencies and has been practicing here since.
Her passion for play started with her early childhood background in music & theater. With over a decade long career and experience in ABA working in various corporate and education sectors, she believes that “the business of ABA is meant to be a small, intimate enterprise where passionate and progressive individuals can collaborate with each other to make meaningful decisions that will truly improve the lives of the individuals they serve.” She partnered with her dear friend and colleague, Jenifer, who agrees with the vision that all children are capable of being happy, inquisitive learners while rooted in play..
Sam Corker
Founder/ Director I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Child and Adolescent Development from San Francisco State University, followed by completing the Multiple Subject Credential Program at California State University, Long Beach. After teaching throughout Orange County for two years, I discovered a deeper passion for supporting children through Applied Behavior Analysis and became a Registered Behavior Technician.
With more than 18 years of experience working with children and families—and over 13 years in ABA—I have developed a unique lens that blends educational expertise with behavioral science. Drawing on my strong teaching background, I helped found a private nonprofit school and served as its lead teacher, creating individualized learning pathways for neurodivergent students.
Committed to advancing inclusive and personalized education, I earned my master’s degree from Arizona State University and continue to expand opportunities for student-centered learning by integrating best practices from both education and ABA.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my wife and 2 daughters, traveling, and embracing everything related to the beach!
Founder/ Director
Jenifer Eaton
Jenifer Eaton is a Master level BCBA committed to providing the highest quality of behavioral health care to children and families dealing with developmental delays and disorders.
She completed her Master-level training in Developmental Psychology at Columbia University in 2014 and pursued her Undergraduate education in California. She has lived in Spain from 2009-2011 to teach English and was Certified 200 hour Yoga Alliance Teacher in 2011. Jenifer’s rich experiences has allowed her to embed her practice with mindfulness and offer a compassionate approach that has allowed her to nurture the growth of her clients.
She held a private practice in New York for four years prior to relocating back to California to be close to her family. Her intention is to foster growth and excellence across the globe with all families, supervisees, clients, and colleagues that she continues on this journey with.
Founder/Director
Jade Copenhaver
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) born and raised in Orange County. I earned my master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and became a BCBA in 2023, following seven years of experience as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) supporting children across home, school, clinic, and community settings throughout Southern California.
I joined Rooted in Play in 2021, drawn to the team’s commitment to compassionate, individualized, and collaborative care. I am passionate about partnering with families to promote meaningful and practical progress. I especially enjoy naturalistic teaching and value creating joyful learning environments where children feel motivated, supported, and understood.
Outside of work, I enjoy hiking with my dog, attending concerts with friends, playing board games with my family, and creating crafts.