Q: When did you decide to become an ABA therapist?

 

A: "I fell into ABA therapy by chance. I saw a job posting that advertised a position as an ABA therapist for people who love to work with kids and I applied, thinking it would be similar to babysitting. It definitely was not but in the best ways possible. I fell in love with ABA and haven’t looked back since."

 

Q: Why did you choose a career in ABA therapy?

 

A: "I chose a career in ABA because I wanted to do something that allowed me to use my skills to help others. I was originally in school to become a counselor but as I gained more experience in the ABA field, I quickly learned that I wouldn’t be happy if I didn’t continue to pursue this career path."

 

Q: What’s the biggest challenge/reward in working with individuals who require ABA therapy?

 

A: "I believe the biggest challenge and the biggest reward when working with individuals who require ABA therapy are closely aligned. It is extremely difficult to watch people struggle with skills that you would expect a typically developing person to have. Watching people have to work so hard for things that come naturally to others can be frustrating for that person and difficult as a therapist. On the other hand, watching individuals achieve their goals is extremely rewarding. All the hard work and frustration turns into happiness or pride in their new skill and that is so exciting to see."

 

Q: How has ASD personally affected/influenced your life? Do you know anybody outside of the workplace that has ASD?

 

A: "While I am not personally related to anyone on the autism spectrum, I am friends with parents of children on the autism spectrum. These relationships have helped to guide my professional practice, as I have the perspective of mothers and fathers. It has also helped me become a more patient and understanding person."

 

Q: In your opinion, how can we, as a society, move forward from preconceived, negative ideas surrounding those with ASD?

 

A: "As a society, I believe that we have a long way to go to move away from the perceived negative ideas surrounding autism spectrum disorder. I believe that ASD is currently viewed and understood by what individuals struggle with and cannot do, when we should be looking at peoples; strengths and all the amazing capabilities individuals with autism spectrum disorder have. I believe that if society shifts their focus and works more towards integration rather than accommodation, it would do great things."

 

Q: Describe what a typical day is like for you. What do you typically do during sessions? What resources do you use/adapt?

 

A: "In a typical day, I can see anywhere from two to four clients. This might involve observing direct therapy sessions, providing training to the staff that works one-on-one with individuals on the spectrum, and making adjustments to programming, behavior plans, or treatment plans. I also work closely with individuals’ families to ensure that they are doing well at home and help guide families with things that they struggle with. Finally, of course, I make time to play and goof around with the people that I work with- it’s the best part of the job!"

 

Q: Is there any additional information you would like to share about you, your work, or other professional experiences that would be helpful for me to know?

 

A: "Overall, I believe that ABA therapy can be essential to individuals on the spectrum. The ability to make it easier for these individuals to function in society is so rewarding. I believe society has a long way to go in terms of understanding and acceptance but I believe that everyone’s lives will get a little bit brighter the closer we get to that point!"