Having autism herself, Summer Mingo approaches the BCBA profession with a fresh perspective and offers great insights into how we can improve as practitioners. Being client-centric, taking on a brand-new case as if they were a blank slate, and focusing on skills-based programs can help set you up for success when working with families.
Early childhood special ed teacher and BCBA Lisa Cvetnich has extensive experience working with young children and their parents. It’s easy for parents to become overwhelmed with everything from how long it takes to start treatment to understanding reasons behind behaviors. Lisa’s website, The Autism Connection, is a fantastic resource for early intervention information for both parents and practitioners.
Parents are a child’s greatest advocate. Vidya Banerjee’s story of raising an autistic son and then becoming a practitioner herself is one we can all learn from. Her insight into what it’s like to be on the parenting side of things is super-valuable and inspiring.
BCBAs can sometimes encounter cultural differences and language barriers when working with their families. Ashley Cabral, a bilingual BCBA, knows these challenges well. Helping your clients get access to the information they need while having compassion for their culture goes a long way.
Currently a Director of ABA at a multidisciplinary clinic, Dayna Parker looks back on her journey of becoming a BCBA. She walks us through all the challenges she’s faced over the years, how she dealt with burnout, and what motivates her to keep going.
