What inspired you to pursue a career in autism?

What motivated me to embark on a career in autism was a combination of academic exploration and hands-on experience during my undergraduate and graduate studies. As I started my undergraduate journey, I was drawn to fields that centered around aiding others, yet remained undecided about the specific profession I aimed to pursue. Ultimately, I elected to follow the Psychology-ABA track, driven by the desire to engage with and learn from a diverse array of professionals within the on-campus school environment, including speech-language therapists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and BCBAs. Through my experience as both an undergraduate trainee and supervisor within this setting, my dedication to working with autistic individuals deepened significantly. Witnessing the impactful efforts of the school staff and experiencing the profound connections formed while working with autistic individuals ignited a profound passion within me. Subsequently, upon completion of my Master’s degree, the natural progression was to merge my passion for speech pathology with my experience in ABA to pursue my professional aspirations.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your job at REED?

The most rewarding aspects of my role at REED are the impact of supporting effective communication among students and their families. Witnessing students acquire the ability to articulate their needs, preferences, and emotions not only enhances their communication skills but also empowers them to assert their individuality and advocate for themselves within their communities. Enabling individuals to navigate and engage with the world around them through communication is not only invaluable but serves as a cornerstone for fostering inclusivity and facilitating meaningful connections within diverse social contexts.

What skills and qualities do you consider essential for success in a career in autism?

Essential qualities for success in a career in autism encompass patience, persistence, compassion, and creativity. Given the non-linear nature of progress in education and life skills development, it’s imperative to maintain patience and persistence while navigating challenges and achieving goals. Specifically within the field of autism, it may take longer than expected to achieve a goal, gain access to a needed service, or come to the “correct” answer. Patience and persistence are key in these scenarios to ensure every individual reaches their maximum potential. Compassion plays a pivotal role in understanding and addressing the unique needs and challenges individuals face, fostering a personalized approach to their journey. Furthermore, the ability to think creatively and devise innovative solutions tailored to each individual is indispensable, as there may not always be a straightforward or universally applicable solution in this field.

Why does a career in autism make sense for students just entering the workforce?

As newly minted speech-language pathologists (SLPs) venture into the workforce, they encounter a diverse array of opportunities spanning various settings such as schools, early intervention programs, inpatient/outpatient facilities, and skilled nursing environments. Irrespective of the specific setting, it is probable that they will engage with autistic individuals requiring speech services. Opting for a career in autism enables these clinicians to refine their skills in tailoring assessments and treatments, fostering their creativity, and enhancing their aptitude for active listening. By investing time in understanding and learning from individuals on the autism spectrum, these new SLPs position themselves to become more adept clinicians, better equipped to meet the diverse needs of their clientele.

Where do you think the need is greatest in autism services? What potential areas within the field should people consider?

The greatest need within autism services, particularly concerning speech and language support, lies within Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). With technology continually evolving, the landscape of AAC is likely to expand and become increasingly complex. Comprehension of when and how to implement both high-tech and low-tech communication devices as supportive aids or alternative communication methods will be paramount. Focusing on Augmentative and Alternative Communication as a specialization within speech-language pathology presents a significant asset to the autism community, equipping professionals to be able to effectively meet the communication needs of individuals on the autism spectrum.

Considering a career in autism? Learn more about the many opportunities at REED Autism Services.

What inspired you to pursue a career in autism?

After college, I began my first job as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at an intensive residential program. At the time, I wasn’t sure of my career path, but I quickly fell in love with the field and couldn’t imagine doing anything else. I remember coming home every day and feeling immensely proud of our client’s successes. I was fortunate to receive amazing hands-on experience and supervision in that role. Eventually, I moved from DSP to ABA Specialist, and later, after completing a master’s degree in ABA, I became a BCBA. I can’t imagine doing anything else!

What are the most rewarding aspects of your job at REED?

I’m thankful to have the opportunity to come to work and know I positively impact the lives of the people we serve every day. Whether it’s enhancing functional communication skills, promoting independence in daily living skills, or effectively reducing challenging behavior over time, there is no greater feeling than achieving goals that enable our clients to live more independently, safely, and fulfilled.

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to pursue a career in autism?

Take that entry-level position! Hands-on experience gained as a DSP, applied behavior analysis (ABA) instructor, clinical associate, or paraprofessional is invaluable. I’ve observed that individuals who have gathered quality hands-on experience in these ABA-based roles often perform better in future careers as BCBAs, educators, program managers, and more. It’s essential to explore your interests within the field and make solid connections with those who can support your career goals. For instance, if you’re drawn to the clinical aspects, seek guidance from a BCBA through one-on-one meetings. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

What skills and qualities do you consider essential for success in a career in autism?

Patience, creative thinking, flexibility, and compassion are essential. There will be great days and difficult ones. What matters most is displaying patience and kindness. When clients become overwhelmed or frustrated, and challenging behaviors may emerge, it’s crucial to take a step back and remember that they are not doing this to bother you, to ruin your day, or for “no reason”. Behavior serves a purpose, and it’s our responsibility to analyze these situations and devise solutions. Facing unexpected challenging behavior, for instance, requires making on-the-spot decisions. This demands someone who can be creative, flexible, and resourceful.

Where do you think the need is greatest in autism services? What potential areas within the field should people consider?

There is a significant need in every area of autism services, but I cannot stress enough the importance of quality and accessible adult services for those on the spectrum. Disparities in funding can significantly impact the quality of care available, resulting in limited resources that profoundly affect an individual’s quality of life. It’s important to remember that autism doesn’t go away once a person turns 21. Symptoms may become more challenging to manage in adulthood. This next chapter of life involves many changes—such as living away from home, attending college, entering the workforce, and making new friends—that can be particularly overwhelming for those with ASD. Increasing the number of qualified individuals in the field of adult services is essential to address the complex needs of a growing autism community.

Considering a career in autism? Learn more about the many opportunities at REED Autism Services.

What inspired you to pursue a career in autism?

I came to autism through the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA).  After earning my undergraduate degree in psychology, I found myself working with developmental disabled individuals (mostly autism) at an organization that utilized ABA as the primary treatment modality. The inspiration to pursue a career in autism came from a clinical case involving an 18-year-old female diagnosed with autism. The girl engaged in severe self-injury and aggression and was institutionalized for most of her teen years.  After a process of intensive assessment and treatment, I was able to walk her and her mother to her first day of school in over 5 years.  Seeing her thrive, paired with her mother’s joy, solidified my focus to become a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA).

What would people be most surprised to learn about you?

That I never intended to go to college. I worked as an electrician for six years before deciding to go to college to study psychology. While I was completing my undergraduate degree I worked as a direct support professional in a group home serving six adults with developmental disabilities and severe challenging behavior. I started on the evening shift, then transitioned to the day shift where I began writing and implementing habilitation goals. That was the job where I first learned about ABA.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your job at REED?

Everyday I get to collaborate with a team who is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism.  It is inspiring to see the commitment REED staff members have to ensuring the success of each individual we serve.  Of course there is no greater reward than bringing about positive change in the lives of the individuals and families we serve.

Could you describe a project or initiative you’ve been involved in at REED or outside of REED that made a significant impact on the autism community?

I believe the field of applied behavior analysis continues to have the most significant impact on the autism community.  My work in ABA has spanned research, practice, and public policy. Within that work I have mentored and trained hundreds of individuals, many of whom went on to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts working to serve the autism community.

 What advice would you give to someone aspiring to pursue a career in autism?

Pursue employment at an organization that not only provides great services, but also provides high quality training and mentorship.  Find a mentor in your chosen career path, share your career goals, and meet with them as frequently as you can.  Your early training and supervision shape and set your career trajectory. 

What skills and qualities do you consider essential for success in a career in autism?

I consider patience, the ability to collaborate with others, and a commitment to evidence-based practices essential for a career in autism. There are no shortcuts in autism treatment and you can’t be successful by yourself.

Considering a career in autism? Learn more about the many opportunities at REED Autism Services.