Behavioral Development and Education Services (BDES)

Greater New Bedford

Our Office

A Career that Changes Lives

At BDES, our team of experts works with children and young adults on the spectrum to help them reach their true potential. We use personalized, data-driven ABA therapy that has been scientifically proven by experts across clinical settings. Our goal is to foster each child’s confidence and resiliency—and empower them to lead a happy, fulfilling life.

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Our Team

Sheldon Wagner, Ph.D

Senior Advisor

Sheldon Wagner, Ph.D

Senior Advisor

Sheldon Wagner, Ph.D, is a senior advisor of Behavioral Developmental and Educational Services. He studied at the University of Geneva with renowned child psychologist, Dr. Jean Piaget and completed his doctoral work in psychology at Harvard University, where he researched children’s typical and atypical development. Dr. Wagner also worked with Seymour Papert at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Artificial Intelligence Laboratory and continued his postdoctoral training with Dr. Howard Gardner at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education.

Dr. Wagner was previously an assistant professor of psychology and education at the University of Rochester and has published numerous articles, chapters, and abstracts related to infant and child development. He has lectured internationally on various topics related to infant and child development and developmental disabilities. He lives in Massachusetts with his family.

Karen K. Butler, M.A., BCBA

Clinical Director

Karen K. Butler, M.A., BCBA

Clinical Director

Karen K. Butler, M.A., BCBA is a graduate of West Virginia University with an internship at the Johns Hopkins Kennedy Institute of Behavioral Medicine. (currently Kennedy-Krieger Institute). Karen moved to the east coast to work at the he May Institute for Children with Autism in 1980. She and her family provided services to 3 separate children with autism over the next 12 years, teaching language, social and life skills in their home. Karen comes to us from Behavioral Development and Educational Services, where she served as the senior BCBA and Clinical Supervisor. Her tenure at BDES spanned 24 years. She is also one of the founders of Brightening Horizons Autism Treatment in Southeastern Massachusetts.

Resource Library

Living a Full Life with Autism with Martin Slyngstad

Martin Slyngstad a Behavior Specialist, and currently in school to become a Speech Pathologist, joins us to discuss his multitude of interests and accomplishments as a young autistic adult.

Reducing Behavior Technician Burn Out

Melissa Furman, a Clinical Director for Total Spectrum, joins us to discuss the field of ABA and to share her recent research that is looking to improve staff satisfaction and reduce turnover.

Moms Roundtable: Autism, Wellness, and Motherhood

Three dynamic women and mothers share their perspectives on how to best care for yourself and your family while raising a child with autism.

Nashua Learning Center Grand Opening

Our new Nashua, NH Learning Center had a successful grand opening! 🎉 We are so excited to offer ABA services in a clinic-based setting at our new center in Nashua.

Autism: Symptoms and Signs

Dr. Genevieve Marshall, BCBA, breaks down myths about autism, the early signs of autism, and what you can do to keep yourself informed on best practices.

The Silent Battle: Caregiver Mental Health in the Realm of Autism

In countless homes, caregivers of individuals with profound autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities face a silent battle that rivals the intensity of war veterans’ struggles. The constant stress from caring for these individuals can lead to PTSD symptoms, highlighting the need for better support and recognition of caregiver burnout within the autism community.

Navigating Mental Health in Today’s Workforce: A LEARN Behavioral Perspective

In the ever-changing work landscape, mental health in high-stress jobs is a pressing concern. Workplace burnout, especially in behavioral health, affects staff and care quality. LEARN’s proactive approach includes resources like EAPs, therapy services, and well-being videos to support employee mental well-being and create a compassionate work environment.

Why Early Diagnosis of Autism Matters: A Deeper Dive

Early autism diagnosis can boost a child’s development. Early diagnosis is a chance for treatment. Parents are key in this process, and research backs up the benefits of early intervention.

Advocating for Your Family and Good, Contemporary ABA With Arfa Alam

Arfa Alam, proud mother of two autistic sons, speaks about her husbands parkisons disease, her twin sisters hearing loss, and advocating for her two boys through a neurotypical world.

Recognizing Autism Symptoms: How to Spot Early Signs

Learn how to recognize the early signs of autism and understand the importance of early intervention. This guide provides insights into common symptoms, what to do if you notice these signs in your child, and how a diagnosis can lead to essential services and support.

What Causes Autism? Understanding the Latest Research

Explore the latest research on the causes of autism, debunking myths and providing insights into genetic and environmental factors. While the exact cause remains unclear, understanding is evolving, shedding light on this complex condition.