#lessonsfromourclients

Almost 12 years ago in California, as a freshman in college, I got a summer job as a transitional assistant in a classroom in a private school. The School specialized in working with children who had challenging behaviors and couldn’t attend mainstream public schools. When I took my first steps into that classroom, I can honestly say I didn’t know what I was getting myself into. Looking back, I realize now it’s one of those serendipitous moments, laying the foundation for every methodical decision that came after. At the time, I certainly didn’t know that every student I met from that moment forward would teach and challenge me, helping me discover the type of clinician I wanted to become. The families I have had the privilege to work with have inspired me to not only pursue a master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis but also a master’s in Mental Health and Counseling so that I can find ways to support the family and integrate strategies in a variety of ways.

I couldn’t imagine, being the home-body that I have always been, that my passion for the field would push me to move across the country. Massachusetts was far away from my family and friends, but I had heard that services for families and individuals with Autism there were the best in the country. But most importantly, what I didn’t know before stepping into that classroom, was the impact of all the people I would meet within the field, as well as all the people I would have the humbling experience to work for – those on the autism spectrum and their families.

I continue to learn lessons from those that I work with, and for, every day. I’ve continued to learn these lessons with every job that I have had the privilege of holding since that first day. I’ve had some of the most inspiring co-workers, who have turned into life-long friends. But my biggest lessons learned have always been from my clients. They’ve taught me how important it is to measure progress in ways that are meaningful to the family and to them. How crucial it is to laugh and maintain a sense of humor even after the longest of days. To never forget our favorite things, whether it be Harry Potter, Thomas the Tank Engine, a great yellow truck, a good Disney character, a squeeze or everyone’s favorite iPad. They remind me, in and out of work, to celebrate the resiliency that each of them and their loved ones bring every day.

#Celebrateeverymilestone

Individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder often have deficits related to communication. Sign language, Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS) and assistive devices are common examples of alternative communicative methods we work to teach our clients to use. It is imperative that those who are not able to speak have a voice and a way to communicate their wants and needs.

One client I have had the pleasure of working with for the past three years has used various alternative communication methods. When we first met, he began using a PECS book where he requested various items and activities by exchanging their pictures. As his imitation skills strengthened, we were also able to teach him a number of signs that he used in combination with his PECS book to communicate. He recently transitioned to using a communication application on his tablet, where when icons are selected, the application reads the name of the item or activity out loud, giving him a vocal voice.

Though his progress with alternative communication methods has been extraordinary, it has always been a goal of his team, his parents especially, for him to communicate with words. Needless to say, it was quite the emotional experience hearing him say “hi” for the first time. It is a word that I have spoken to him thousands of times since I have known him, and I always thought about the day he might be able to say it back. There are times that I still get teary-eyed listening to HIS voice because I know how hard he has worked to be able to use it. Every new word of his is a success and we will continue to celebrate each one.

Britney Catron, M.Ed., BCBA. LABA
Behavior Analyst

 

#Lessonsfromourclients

I entered the field of ABA and was introduced to the world of autism nearly 15 years ago. The biggest lesson I have learned came about 6 years into my work with clients on the spectrum from a 6-year-old with ASD. He reminded me that sometimes the characteristics that lead to a diagnosis of autism are the very traits that make that individual unique and interesting. This individual enjoyed maps. We would say he perseverated on them. But studying maps brought him so much joy. He could name capitals and countries, rivers, and mountains. It was sometimes tiring for me to sit and listen, and it made me feel silly that he knew so much more than I did about geography, which, admittedly is not my strongest subject.

One day, he told me that he was sad that people wanted to “change” him, so he didn’t like maps as much anymore. He was afraid that if he didn’t like maps, he wouldn’t like anything. It turns out, he had overheard some adults talking about the desire to “cure” his autism and knew that his intense interest in maps stemmed from his diagnosis. This one conversation led me to the biggest epiphany in my career.

Our goal should be to help our clients to function in society in a way that will bring them the most success and happiness. We should strive to alleviate some of the major challenges they have in their lives due to their diagnosis. Our focus should not be on how to “cure” autism, but on how to help our clients to navigate a world that was not created with them in mind. Perhaps, our focus should also be on helping the world to change a little bit so that our clients and their many amazing characteristics can be embraced.

Tara Schmehr, M.S., BCBA, LABA
Behavior Analyst

#Celebrateeverymilestone

Two years ago, this month we were lucky to meet Max and his family. He was non-vocal, had physical disabilities, and was diagnosed later than usual. To many, the deck was stacked against him. We quickly learned that no matter how much that deck is stacked, we should always bet on Max.

Max had sessions every day. He worked hard. Harder than most kids we know. He made progress, sometimes slow, but progress nevertheless. The progress was and continues to be never more evident than when he is outside of his sessions. His family informs us whenever something big happens for him. Those are the stories that motivate us to keep going. It makes everything we do worth it. It is our most potent reinforcer. We have two years of these stories, so it was hard to pick our favorites. Here are just a few that made us so proud to be on Max’s team.

Julie: During Max’s first session I tried to get him to play with some toys, to no avail. His mom, seemingly defeated, mentioned that he liked his swing. So outside we went. Very quickly I realized that he not only liked the swing, he loved the swing. This was the most potent reinforcer I found all day, so I used it! I wanted Max to look at me. Just a glance. So, I held that swing until he looked right in my eyes. When he did, I gave him the biggest push on that swing. I stopped the swing, and he looked again, this time for longer! By the end of the session, Max was looking at me consistently. A few weeks later at his birthday party, mom told me that his family remarked on how much more “engaged” he was and was looking at them. That was one of my proudest moments with Max.

Max’s first time on a “big boy” swing

Anelise: One of my favorite memories of Max was Halloween. We both got dressed up and went trick or treating around his neighborhood with his family. It was incredible to see how eager he was to ring each doorbell and use his new communication device to say, “Trick or Treat.” A lot of what we had been working on was his waiting and requesting using his tablet, so seeing that translate over to a holiday tradition was so rewarding. Max’s excitement was evident-he ran from one house to the next and when it was time to go home, he wanted to keep going. Those are the memories that last a lifetime not only for the family but for the client and it was awesome to be a part of that.

Max flying like Superman on Halloween

Kendall: My favorite thing about Max is how he is socially with me, especially how we joke with each other. This is when you can see his personality really come out. When he’s jumping in the bounce house and it’s time for him to come out, he smiles and won’t come out until I get in there with him and bounce, all while laughing the entire time like he one-upped me! One Halloween I dressed up and was wearing a mustache. When I walked into his house, he wouldn’t talk to me because he didn’t recognize me. When I took my mustache off, he laughed and gave me a big hug. He knew I was playing a joke and he was able to understand and enjoy why it was so funny.

Julie, Kendall, and Max at the ARC 5K in 2017

We often hear people who work in other fields say, “I have a thankless job.” We are very lucky to have a thank FULL job. Parents often thank us for the work we do, and we are grateful. However, today we want to turn that thanks around to our friend, Max. We are thankful that you have taught us that no matter what difficulties present themselves, that with hard work and a smile, you will always persevere.

Written humbly and with thanks,

Anelise Hackenson
ABA Thereapist

Kendall Dardy-Jones
ABA Thereapist

Julie Bazinet, M.Ed., BCBA, LABA
Behavior Analyst

Read our Q&A with Tiffany Bellina, Behavior Analyst and Director, ­­­about her career experience working in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. 

Q: For those of us unfamiliar with ABA, would you mind explaining it? 

A: Behavior analysis is a scientifically validated approach to understanding how behavior is learned or affected by the environment.  Applied behavior analysis (ABA) systematically uses the science of behavior to solve socially significant behavior problems. It has been shown that consistent ABA intervention can significantly improve various skills such as: communication, academic skills, hygiene, grooming, domestic skills, social skills, executive functioning skills, and job competence. Consistent ABA intervention can also effectively decrease challenging behavior such as aggression or self-injury or behavioral excesses of concern such as repetitive speech.

Q: How did you come to work in the ABA field?

A: 10 years ago, I was working at a residential program when a friend of mine reached out to me to about an ABA Therapist position at Behavioral Concepts. She knew I had experience working with people with developmental disabilities and that I had an interest in working with children. After she told me about the job, I figured I should apply. The rest is history.

Q: Did you have prior experience working in Applied Behavior Analysis?

A: I did not have experience specific to ABA and was not sure what to expect. BCI provided me with comprehensive training.

Q: What did you find most rewarding about working directly with children as an ABA Therapist?

A: It was extremely rewarding to know you were helping children to become more independent by developing critical skills such as social, communication, and daily living skills.

Q: Can you give me an example of a time that you were able to make a difference in a child’s life?

A: I had a non-verbal client whose parents told me that he likely would never speak. Despite incredible challenges, a year later he was talking in multiple word utterances.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who is interested in the field of ABA?

A: It is a great career. Beyond the intangible rewards such as the satisfaction of seeing your client succeed, an ABA therapist at BCI can make between $20-$23 dollars an hour depending on their educational level. It is a great job for anyone who enjoys working with children and has an interest in special needs. ABA is a great career path for anyone interested or majoring in Human Services, Psychology, Education, or related degree paths.

Q: If someone decides to become an ABA therapist is there formal education required?

A: Some college coursework is required to become an ABA therapist.

Q: What could a potential employee expect in their role as an ABA therapist?

A: You’ll work one-to-one with clients under the supervision of a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). You’ll implement a specific treatment plan that addresses the child’s behavioral management, activities of daily living, social skills, and community skills. You’ll work in a variety of environments including a center, a child’s home, and in the community.

Q: How did you become a BCBA?

A: As much as I loved being an ABA therapist, I knew I wanted to do more. I decided to go back to school to pursue my master’s degree to become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). On my own, I identified and completed an online program and went on to become a BCBA, then a Licensed Behavior Analyst in Massachusetts.

Q: Knowing you are involved with BCI’s college partnerships and provide supervision to students in Bay Path’s Master’s program in ABA, would you mind telling me about the onsite graduate program?

A: Sure! After I graduated, BCI developed a partnership with Bay Path University to provide on-site graduate classes to full time staff working as ABA Therapists where they earn a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis. BCI pays for 60% of the tuition costs which makes it affordable for a lot of people.  Upon graduating, BCI hires you as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst with a competitive salary and an extended benefits package that boasts many options including tuition reimbursement.

Q: Do you have anything else you would like to share with potential candidates?

A: I have been very fortunate to gain my knowledge and experience from a company that has helped me grow professionally in a career that has brought such joy to my life. I would highly encourage anyone interested in this field to learn more by visiting our website at www.bciaba.com/careers/become-an-aba.