When choosing a behavioral provider there are areas of consideration that will help you to make an effective selection. It is important to understand the provider’s governing philosophy on behavior intervention and their qualifications.
Searching and Qualifications
A good place to start a search is by asking other families for recommendations. Autism support agencies often keep lists of providers and may be helpful in your search. Even after contacting a behavioral provider, ask for references and then contact those references. By asking questions and listening to the experiences of others, you will get a better picture of the professional and his or her practice. A qualified behavioral provider will be someone who:
- has a philosphical approach that matches yours
- has experience with evidence- based strategies
- has experience working with people within a similar skill profile
- is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA), or is a tutor or educator directly supervised by a BCBA.
Best Practice in Behavior Intervention
Effective behavioral providers are those who understand that every person with autism is an individual. It should be apparent that the behavioral provider cares for the individual’s well-being and comfort. Their approach will include individualized interventions and supports that are tailored to current skill levels and learning strengths. Beware of any provider who presents a general “package” or a predetermined curriculum that is not tailored to individual needs.
Look for a provider who considers the entire family system when implementing interventions. Such an approach will take into account factors that influence the functioning of the family unit, as well as the family’s priorities, values, and belief systems.
Functional Goals and Outcomes
The goals in effective behavior interventions will directly address challenges and strengths across all functional areas, including in the areas of social interaction, communication, and life skills. Be wary of outcomes that focus solely on decreasing challenging behaviors without replacing them with appropriate behaviors or that fail to consider an individual’s motivations or preferences. Effective strategies will also focus on the long-term usage for skills being taught. All skills taught should be relevant to real-life situations and should not focus on reducing characteristics of autism.
Varied Approaches
An effective behavioral provider will:
- Use a variety of approaches and strategies that are driven by principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
- Maintain a flexible approach and a willingness to adjust based on environment or situation
- Select strategies that are clearly tied to the goals created
Monitoring and Data Collection
Effective strategies will utilize data collection and analysis to continually re-evaluate program progress and effectiveness of strategies. Beware of treatment packages that are not regularly re-evaluated.
Parent Involvement
Parent/caregiver input is an essential element for success. Providers should solicit and accept input on a regular basis. Parents/caregivers should be able to observe or participate in sessions as often as they like. Parent/caregiver training should be a component and should occur frequently.
‣ VKC Resources
- Applied Behavior Analysis Tip Sheet
- StudyFinder
- Tennessee Disability Pathfinder
- TRIAD
- Vanderbilt Autism Resource Line
‣ Local and National Resources
Top photo by Getty Images/iStockphoto
[September 2013]