Ebony and I met working at a local clinic that provided ABA to children and young adults with autism. At the time, we were both Registered Behavior Technicians, and aspiring Board Certified Behavior Analysts. We also found out we had a lot in common. In addition to our aspirations; We both were past educators, working moms, and we both had very personal reasons as to why we wanted to pursue a career in behavior analysis, specifically 6 reasons... our kids! Pursuing our BCBA certification unlocked a world of information that gave us the necessary tools to not only become effective practitioners, but to also become better parents and care-givers.
Together, we went through our Master's program and then successfully passed our board exams. Often, we would discuss creating our own practice, and things that we would do differently than others. As parents who have children with special needs, we knew some things needed to change in the service delivery model, and it is our intention to address those changes. Ebony and I have practiced within school districts, clinics, and the home, thus giving us a grande view of how services can be implemented in different settings.
There is a term in our field called "Generalization," and establishing that term is our goal for each client. Generalization means that the skills that were successfully taught have maintained over time, within different settings, and with different people. With that said, if a kiddo "masters" a goal in a clinic, in our eyes, it is not mastered until we see that skill being done months later, at different places, and perhaps with someone new. This is important stuff, and we need more of it.
In addition, our field needs more understanding and caring from providers. As parents, we understand the challenges that our families face, and it is some hard stuff. I too was once the scared Mom bringing my child from therapy to therapy, hoping that someone would give me answers and hope. At that time, I certainly needed more compassion, and less scientific jargon. I really just needed someone to say to me, "Its going to be ok."
Based on our common past, present, and future goals, it was a no-brainer to create The Behavior Co. With out past experience and determination to have meaningful effects with clients, we knew The Behavior Co. would provide that outlet. We look forward to this future endeavor, and can not wait to see the changes that come for our many families. Brighter days starts now.
I'm crying because this is the first time I've heard of your practice. WIS-TV was my introduction. I've begged for behavioral services for my 22 non- verbal adult son. He lost so much during COVID. Is it too late for my son?