Inspiring Conversations with Luiza Andakyan of Adamant Behavioral Services, Inc.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Luiza Andakyan.

Hi Luiza, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Dr. Andakyan began her journey in the field around 2009 and quickly fell in love with the impact that Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can make. Seeing children make meaningful progress—sometimes in ways families never thought possible—completely shaped the direction of her career.

From early on, she had a vision of creating a space where children could be fully supported before entering or returning to a school setting. Her goal was to build an environment that focused not only on reducing challenging behaviors, but on preparing children holistically—developing communication, social skills, independence, and confidence so they could succeed long-term.

Over the years, Dr. Andakyan worked across multiple settings and saw firsthand the difference between high-quality ABA care and services that missed the mark. She recognized that when ABA is not delivered with precision, ethics, and compassion, it can slow progress and create unnecessary stress for families. This experience reinforced her commitment to doing things differently.

That is how Adamant Behavioral Services was born.

Adamant Behavioral Services was created out of a deep need to provide quality, ethical, and effective ABA services—services that truly change trajectories. Dr. Andakyan’s mission has always been to help children reach their maximum potential while also empowering parents. The approach extends beyond working directly with children; parents are educated to understand and implement the same strategies, so progress continues beyond sessions and into everyday life.

Ultimately, the goal is not just to provide services—but to help children graduate from ABA when appropriate, enter school settings with confidence, and function as independently as possible.

Today, that vision has grown into a comprehensive program designed to meet each child’s unique needs. In addition to center-based services with a sensory-rich environment, Adamant now provides in-home ABA services to ensure each child receives support in the most appropriate setting. The organization is also expanding and currently accepting clients in La Crescenta and surrounding areas, as well as in the Santa Clarita and San Jose vicinities.

Beyond direct therapy, Adamant offers private social skills services as well as individual and group parent coaching, further supporting families in creating lasting, meaningful change.

As both a clinician and a leader, Dr. Andakyan remains deeply involved in maintaining the highest standard of care.
For Dr. Andakyan, this work is not just a career—it is a responsibility to the families who trust the process and to the children whose futures are being shaped.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road—and Dr. Andakyan believes that is often the case when building something meaningful and impactful.

One of the greatest challenges has been navigating growth while maintaining the high standards of quality and ethics that define her work. In a field where the demand for services continues to rise, ensuring that care is delivered with clinical precision, integrity, and compassion requires constant oversight, ongoing staff development, and strong leadership systems.

Building and sustaining the right team has also been a significant part of the journey. Dr. Andakyan has been intentional about surrounding herself with professionals who are not only skilled, but also aligned with the mission and committed to continuous growth. At times, this has required making difficult decisions to protect the quality of care—decisions that were necessary, even when they were not the easiest from a business perspective.

Like many entrepreneurs, she has also faced operational and financial pressures, particularly while expanding services and developing systems that support both staff and families. Balancing her roles as a clinician, leader, and business owner has required her to continually evolve, adapt, and step outside of her comfort zone.

Despite these challenges, each obstacle has strengthened her vision and leadership. The journey has not been easy—but for Dr. Andakyan, it has been deeply purposeful and undoubtedly worth it.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Adamant Behavioral Services is a comprehensive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) provider dedicated to delivering high-quality, ethical, and individualized care for children with developmental needs and their families.

The organization offers a range of services, including center-based programs, in-home ABA services, social skills training, and both individual and group parent coaching. Each service is designed with one core goal in mind: to help children build the skills necessary to function independently and successfully across environments—home, school, and community.

What sets Adamant apart is its unwavering commitment to quality over quantity. Under the leadership of Dr. Andakyan, the organization places a strong emphasis on clinical integrity, staff training, and individualized programming. Every child’s plan is carefully developed and continuously monitored to ensure meaningful progress, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Another defining aspect of Adamant is its focus on parent empowerment. Families are not just observers in the process—they are actively supported to understand and implement strategies, allowing progress to extend far beyond therapy sessions. This approach creates lasting change and supports long-term success.

Adamant is also known for creating an environment that values connection over correction. The center includes a sensory-rich space optimal for self-regulation, engagement, and natural learning opportunities. With ABA principles at its forefront, Adamant continues to lead with assent and trauma-informed care.

As the organization continues to grow, it is expanding services and currently accepting clients in La Crescenta and surrounding areas, as well as Santa Clarita and San Jose vicinities, while also offering in-home services to ensure each child receives care in the most appropriate setting.

Brand-wise, what Dr. Andakyan is most proud of is the reputation Adamant has built—one rooted in trust, results, and a genuine commitment to doing what is best for each child and family. The organization is not just focused on providing services, but on changing trajectories—helping children gain independence, confidence, and the skills they need to thrive long-term.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Dr. Andakyan’s advice to those just starting out is to focus on building a strong foundation before chasing rapid growth.

Early in her career, she learned that true success is not about doing more, but about doing things correctly and with intention. Whether in clinical work or business, cutting corners may create short-term gains, but it ultimately compromises long-term outcomes. Staying committed to quality, ethics, and continuous learning is what creates lasting impact.

She also emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability. The path is rarely linear, and challenges are inevitable—whether it is navigating difficult cases, building a team, or managing the demands of running a business. Being willing to adjust, learn, and grow through those challenges is essential.

One thing she wishes she had fully understood earlier is the importance of leadership and systems. Providing great service alone is not enough; building a strong organization requires structure, clear expectations, and the ability to lead people effectively. Investing in systems and team development early on can prevent many challenges down the line.

Finally, Dr. Andakyan encourages others to stay deeply connected to their “why.” In a demanding field, it is easy to become overwhelmed, but staying grounded in the purpose behind the work provides clarity, motivation, and direction.

For Dr. Andakyan, success stems from operating with integrity, staying consistent, and prioritizing collaboration.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.adamantservices.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adamantbehavioralservices
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AdamantBehavioralServices
• LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/adamant-behavioral-services/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/adamant-behavioral-services-la-crescenta-3?osq=Adamant+Behavioral+Services

Image Credits
Luiza Andakyan’s profile picture was taken by Irma Lion (Instagram name: @IrmaLion)

The first two pictures (one with a child climbing and one of the shelves and the back of the therapist)-were taken by Emily Silva (@EmSilvaPhotography on Instagram)