OUR EXPERTS

From robotics to education to health, our specialists boast a variety of areas of expertise, all aimed at one purpose: helping children with special needs. Meet just a few of MOVIA's experts below!

TIM GIFFORD

A renowned entrepreneur in the field of collaborative robotics, Tim's technical expertise and research experience is the driving force behind MOVIA's cutting-edge technology.

Read more about Tim Gifford below!
ROB PARENTI

A Special Education veteran, Rob leads MOVIA's education and services team as Chief Education Officer, building effective content and customer support.

Read more about Rob Parenti below!
LISA LICHTENSTEIN

A practicing psycho-therapist for over 20 years and the Clinical Director for two Special Education schools in LA, Lisa enriches MOVIA with her psychological expertise.

Read more about Lisa Lichtenstein below!

Meet Tim Gifford

Founder & Chief Scientist

An internationally renowned researcher and entrepreneur, Timothy Gifford has worked with NASA, led the team that built the first virtual reality exhibit at the Smithsonian Institution, and is a sought-after consultant and presenter on Robot-Assisted Instruction, Autism, Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality, Collaborative Robotics, Human Perception, and Assistive Technology. He also works in the labs of the University of Connecticut, where MOVIA was born.

"Robots are more accessible to children than people

because they are simpler."

- TIMOTHY GIFFORD

Meet Rob Parenti

Chief Education Officer

As a Special Education Teacher and Administrator, former Principal of Oak Hill Special Needs School in Bristol, CT, Rob Parenti has an extensive background in Special Education. With a Masters in Special Education from Saint Joseph University and an Education Administration Certificate from the University of Connecticut, Rob has both the experience and training to support children with autism and other special needs and their families. He has worked with children of all ages who have had some of the highest special needs in the state of Connecticut.

"The best intervention is practice."

- ROB PARENTI

Meet Lisa Lichtenstein

Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT)

Lisa is a psychological expert who has established a multi-faceted career as a psychotherapist, practicing for over 20 years. She runs a psychotherapy private practice in Santa Monica, CA, as well as serving as the Clinical Director for two Special Education schools in Los Angeles. Lisa's experience and expertise ensures MOVIA's products maintain the highest standards for therapeutic interventions.

"The kids are able to talk [...] and practice lessons

without any kind of judgement."

- LISA LICHTENSTEIN
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