About Us
At Communication Lab, our story has always been about people, not just the ones who founded it, but
the many who have shaped it along the way. What began as a simple desire to create a more compassionate, collaborative ABA practice for families has grown into a thriving community of clinicians, educators, and parents working together toward one shared goal: helping every child reach their fullest
potential.
We believe that the best care starts with connection, the kind that’s built on trust, respect, and understanding. Our approach blends evidence-based therapy with a deeply human perspective, ensuring that each child and family receives support that is individualized, meaningful, and rooted in real-life connection.
What makes Communication Lab special isn’t just the clinical expertise in what we do, but the heart behind how we do it. Every therapist, every parent, and every child who walks through our doors becomes part of a community that believes growth happens when people feel seen, supported, and valued.
From Our Founders…
Communication Lab was built on the belief that growth begins with connection, that every child deserves to be understood, supported, and celebrated for who they are.
Founders Phil and Alyssia Peters began this journey not only from a business plan, but from a shared calling: to create a family-centered space where therapy feels human, clinicians feel valued, and families feel truly seen. Phil’s background in behavioral health and his passion for working with autistic individuals have been shaped by years of walking alongside autistic children and families through both challenges and meaningful progress. Alyssia brings a deep sense of empathy and vision, influenced by her experience in real estate and her ability to create clinical spaces that feel warm, welcoming, and connected.
Together, they’ve built a practice rooted in servant leadership, collaboration, and heart. But their greatest teachers have always been their three daughters: Everly, Lyla, and Jovi, whose curiosity, resilience and individuality remind them daily why this work matters. As parents, they understand the beauty and complexity of raising children and it is that lived experience that continues to shape the culture and compassion behind everything at Communication Lab.
At its core, Communication Lab is more than an ABA therapy practice, it’s a reflection of family, where every voice, big or small, is valued and worth hearing.
Meet Our Team
At Communication Lab, our team is the heart of everything we do. Each clinician, supervisor, and team
member brings unique expertise, compassion, and creativity to the families we serve. Together, they
embody what it means to lead with heart, collaborate with purpose, and create meaningful change one
connection at a time.
Phil Peters
BCBA | Co-Founder
Phil’s work in behavioral health has always been driven by heart. His passion for supporting autistic individuals comes from years of firsthand experience walking alongside autistic children, teens, and adults, and helping them through both challenges and meaningful progress. Through that work, he has developed a deep respect for the individuality of every child and the importance of meeting families with empathy and understanding.
Known for his calm presence and steady leadership, Phil leads with humility, connection, and a strong commitment to the families and team he serves. His ability to build trust is at the core of Communication Lab’s relationship-driven approach and continues to shape a culture rooted in compassion and meaningful care.
Alyssia Peters
Co-Founder
Alyssia brings creativity, empathy, and vision to Communication Lab. With a background in real estate and property management, she developed a strong foundation in building relationships and creating environments that feel intentional, welcoming, and connected. That perspective continues to shape each Com Lab space as more than just a clinic, but a place where families feel supported and at home.
She is passionate about fostering connection within both the team and the families they serve, helping create a collaborative and heart-centered culture. As a mother of three daughters, Everly, Lyla, and Jovi, Alyssia’s perspective is deeply personal, grounding the mission of Communication Lab in compassion, authenticity, and a genuine understanding of family life and dynamic.
Natalie Costilla
BCBA | Clinical Director (San Diego, CA)
Natalie leads Communication Lab’s clinical vision with integrity, authenticity, and heart. With a strong clinical background, she brings a well-rounded and deeply informed perspective to her work in cultivating a values-driven culture. She is passionate about delivering thoughtful, intentional therapy grounded in the belief that meaningful progress begins with genuine human connection.
Through collaborative, relationship-driven care, Natalie supports clients, families, and clinicians in ways that prioritize dignity, connection, and individualized growth. Known for her steady presence and reflective leadership style, she is deeply committed to ensuring services remain compassionate, ethical, and responsive to each individual’s unique needs. She balances high clinical standards with empathy and humility, helping create an environment where both families and team members feel supported, empowered, and understood.
Natalie’s leadership anchors Communication Lab’s clinical culture one rooted in trust, growth, and meaningful connection.
Marisa Cruz
Operations Manager (San Diego, CA)
Marisa is the organizational heartbeat of Communication Lab, keeping details flowing, systems steady, and the team fully supported. With a background in operations and administration, she plays a vital role in the clinic’s daily rhythm from onboarding and scheduling to ensuring families and staff have what they need to thrive.
Known for her calm presence, kindness, and deep sense of care, Marisa brings consistency and compassion to everything she does. She is often the steady force behind the scenes, helping ensure that both clinical and operational needs are met with efficiency and thoughtfulness. Her work helps create the smooth, welcoming environment that families and team members have come to rely on and love at Communication Lab.
Supervising Team and RBT's
Our supervising team and registered behavioral therapists are the backbone of Communication Lab. Each clinician brings extensive experience, strong clinical knowledge, and the ability to adapt their approach to meet the needs of each child, family, and team member. While their styles may differ, they are united by the same priorities: keeping families informed and prepared, supporting teams with clarity and consistency, and upholding the highest standards of care.
Together, they combine expertise, creativity, and compassion to support one another and the families we serve, creating an environment where growth is possible and progress is celebrated.
What sets us apart?
Jamie (SD Assistant Supervisor)
“Our approach includes an emphasis on an understanding of the sensorimotor framework. We use that to make sure basic needs are a core part of our sessions with consistent incorporation of therapeutic sensory support.”
