Our new Mt Pleasant, WI Learning Center had a successful grand opening! 🎉 We are so excited to offer ABA services in a clinic-based setting at our new center in Mt Pleasant.
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Welcome to our Brookfield ABA Therapy Learning Center!
Welcome to our partnered WEAP and Total Spectrum Brookfield, WI Learning Center!
Shaping the Future: Influential Women in Autism and ABA Therapy
March is Women’s History Month. It’s a time to celebrate the accomplishments of women in all walks of life.
In the area of autism and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, many women have made a lasting mark. They’ve broken barriers. They’ve conducted significant research, and they’ve paved the way for better understanding and treatment of autism.
Today, we spotlight seven women who have shown us what it means to lead with passion, dedication, and commitment. They are making a difference, and their work continues to inspire future generations of women in the field.
1. Temple Grandin: The Trailblazing Voice in Autism Advocacy
Temple Grandin, Ph.D., is a name synonymous with autism advocacy. Born in 1947, she was diagnosed with autism in early childhood. Despite the challenges, she went on to become an esteemed academic and animal behaviorist. She has gained recognition for writing books and delivering speeches on autism and animal behavior. Today, she is a professor of animal science at Colorado State University.
2. Greta Thunberg: Championing Climate Action and Autism Acceptance
Greta Thunberg is a Swedish environmental activist. She has gained global recognition for her efforts to fight climate change. She’s also known for being openly autistic. She has referred to her autism as her “superpower,” and has discussed how it has helped her in her activism by allowing her to focus intensely on topics that interest her. Greta has used her platform to advocate for acceptance and understanding of autism. On her Facebook page, she identifies herself as an “Autistic climate justice activist.”
3. Breanna Clark: Shattering World Records and Autism Stereotypes
Breanna Clark is an American Paralympic athlete who was diagnosed with autism at age 4. She competes in T20 category races, a classification for athletes with intellectual impairments. She has represented athletes with autism on an international stage. Off the track, she’s been an advocate and role model for people with autism.
4. Ronit Molko: A Powerful Force in Autism Therapy and Entrepreneurship
Ronit Molko, Ph.D., BCBA-D, is another luminary in the field. She is a thought leader and subject matter expert in autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, and behavioral healthcare. She co-founded Autism Spectrum Therapies (acquired by Learn It Systems) and is a LEARN Behavioral board member. In this All Autism Talk podcast, she talks about how ongoing research is helping us better understand the unique challenges girls with autism face.
5. Devon Sundberg: Shaping the Future of ABA Therapy and Autism Awareness
Devon Sundberg, MS, BCBA, co-founded the Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA). She has made significant contributions to the field of behavior analysis, both through her work at BACA and as the founder of the Women in Behavior Analysis conference. In this All Autism Talk podcast, she shares how raising three daughters helped open her eyes to how gendered life can be — and about the need for more women in the autism field.
6. Hanna Rue: Pioneering Innovations in Autism Treatment and Research
Hanna Rue, Ph.D., BCBA-D, is chief clinical officer for LEARN Behavioral. Her research interests are broad and include the identification of evidence-based practices for the treatment of autism. Her influence in the field of autism is evident in her wide-ranging work that spans clinical care, research, and advocacy. She has made significant contributions to STEM fields, sharing her insights through various platforms, including top-performing podcast episodes about autism, and extending her influence and reach in the autism community.
7. Sabrina Daneshvar: Revolutionizing the Field with Innovation and Compassion
Sabrina Daneshvar, Ph.D., BCBA-D, serves as the senior vice president of clinical services at LEARN Behavioral. Her research interests include video modeling and teaching social skills. This work has contributed to developing innovative strategies for improving social skills in children with autism. Sabrina has also taught, mentored, and trained many graduate students pursuing their degrees.
These are just a few women who have helped to shape the field of autism and ABA therapy. Their work underscores the importance of early intervention, peer support, and recognizing the diverse signs and symptoms of autism in girls and women.
We celebrate these women and everyone who has made contributions to advance our understanding of autism. They provide hope and inspiration to countless families across the world affected by it.
The Benefits of Summer Social Skills Programs for Kids with Autism
Even though the school year is still in full swing, it’s not too early to think about how you’re going to fill your summer schedule.
For parents of children on the autism spectrum, planning for summer involves more than just vacations and relaxation. You want your child to continue to make progress even during a school break.
When regular routines and structured learning environments pause for the summer, children with autism can be at risk of not maintaining skills. They might lose social skills, behavior improvements, and communication. This loss can mean that skills learned over the school year may diminish, leading to a challenging start when school resumes.
Summer Can Provide Continuous Learning Opportunities
Experts at LEARN say consistency is key for reinforcing learned skills. A disruption in routine can be unsettling for children with autism. They often thrive on predictability. Summer programs can provide a framework where they can thrive.
Consider enrolling your child in a social skills program this summer. Here’s why:
- LEARN’s summer social skills programs are structured activities. They are designed specifically for children with autism.
- Our summer social skills programs take place during the school break. They focus on improving social interaction, communication, and behavioral skills.
- Our programs can include group activities, one-on-one sessions, and a range of therapies. We tailor them to each child’s unique needs.
What Will Kids Learn in a Summer Social Skills Program?
A summer social skills program can continue the momentum of what your child learns over the school year. These are some of the skills we work on:
- Communication skills: Children with autism often find it hard to advocate for their needs to be met or express their preferences. They also might have trouble using language effectively and maintaining conversations. Our program gives kids a chance to practice these skills through guided activities, role-playing, and peer interactions.
- Building confidence and self-esteem: Our summer programs can also have a tremendous impact on a child’s confidence and self-esteem. By mastering new skills and successfully interacting and forming friendships with peers, children with autism can gain a greater sense of self-worth. This boost in confidence can positively influence other areas of their life, from academic performance to relationships with family and friends.
- Learning to interact with peers and make friends: Children with autism sometimes have difficulties making friends and maintaining relationships. Summer social skills programs specifically address these issues by providing opportunities for children to interact with others in a supervised, safe, and nurturing environment. This can help them understand the nuances of social interaction, learn to cooperate with others, and even form lasting friendships.
- Fostering independence: Another key benefit of these programs is that they foster independence. By participating in new activities and routines, children can gradually become more comfortable with change and learn to adapt to different situations.
Keeping Skills Sharp During the Summer
Sometimes, educators talk about the “summer slide.” That refers to an educational phenomenon where students experience a loss of learning gains that they made during the previous school year over the course of the summer vacation.
If you want to prevent that kind of regression for your child, a summer social skills program can reinforce what they’ve learned over the school year and help them continue their growth and development.
Summer social skills programs for children with autism are more than just a way to keep kids occupied during the break. It’s another tool for keeping them engaged in learning. So, as we approach the summer season, consider enrolling your child in a social skills program. It could be just the thing to make the transition to next school year easier.
Learn more about building social skills during the summer in this LEARN blog post.
5 Tips Toward Terrific Teeth For Children With Autism
Behavior analyst Genevieve Marshall, PhD, shares five tips toward terrific teeth for your children with autism.
Advancing Autism Services: Our Commitment to Public Policy
Written by Dr. Ashley Williams, Ph.D., LABA, BCBA-D, Vice President
National Social Justice Day is a time to reflect on the progress made in creating a more equitable and inclusive society. At LEARN Behavioral, this commitment goes beyond the confines of our therapy rooms; it extends into the heart of public policy advocacy. Our dedication to social justice is evident through our active involvement in various organizations and our continuous efforts to champion policies that support the autism community.
1. Advocating for Autism Services Nationwide
LEARN Behavioral is proud to be an active member of the Council for Autism Service Providers (CASP). Our leadership team actively participates as CASP Special Advocacy Group Leaders in 11 states where LEARN Behavioral operates. This engagement allows us to contribute firsthand to the shaping of policies that impact individuals with autism and their families. Additionally, our membership in the National Coalition for Access to Autism Services (NCAAS) underscores our commitment to addressing state and federal barriers to autism services. By collaborating with like-minded organizations, we strive to create a unified voice advocating for positive change on a broader scale.
2. Advancing Autism Equity Through State Organizations
At LEARN Behavioral, we understand the importance of grassroots efforts in promoting social justice. Our active involvement in local trade and professional organizations, including CalABA, BABAT, WAPA, ORABA, MAC, MIBAP, reflects our dedication to the larger behavior analytic community. Through volunteering and membership in these organizations, we aim to contribute to the development of equitable services for the diverse communities we serve. We believe that fostering connections within the behavioral community is crucial to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
3. Leading National Advocacy Efforts for Autism Policy Reform
LEARN Behavioral is fortunate to have resident experts in public policy who actively contribute to the advancement of the autism community. LEARN leaders have published peer-reviewed journal articles on public policy, presented at local and national conferences, and provided numerous testimonies advocating for access to care. Our chief clinical officer, Dr. Hanna Rue, is a beacon of leadership in this regard. Her participation in NCAAS’s “day on the hill” in Washington, D.C., exemplifies our commitment to effecting change at the highest levels. By engaging with House and Senate offices, we strive to influence initiatives that positively impact the autism community on a national scale.
4. LEARN Advocacy Network
The LEARN Advocacy Network, led by Dr. Rebecca Thompson, is a vital part of LEARN Behavioral’s public policy efforts, providing a monthly meeting ground for leaders from each state. Driving our advocacy initiatives, this collaborative team engages in meaningful discussions, sharing insights, and staying abreast of the latest developments in public policy. The network serves as a platform where LEARN Behavioral leaders exchange information, ensuring a well-coordinated and informed approach to navigating the complex landscape of policy initiatives.
As we observe National Social Justice Day, it is imperative to recognize the multifaceted approach LEARN Behavioral takes to contribute to a more just and equitable society. Through active participation in national and state organizations, as well as championing public policy initiatives, we are dedicated to making a lasting impact. Our commitment to social justice extends beyond our therapeutic interventions, reflecting our belief in the power of advocacy and policy to create positive change for individuals with autism and their families.
The Advances and Challenges of DEI Initiatives in ABAÂ
Self-care and Sensory Needs for Neurodivergent Individuals
ABA Therapy Covered by Medicaid in Illinois
Is ABA Therapy for Autism Covered by Medicaid in Illinois?
Yes, ABA therapy in Illinois is covered by Medicaid and overseen by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (IDHFS).
What is ABA Therapy?
ABA stands for applied behavior analysis. Doctors, psychologists, and behavior specialists agree that ABA is the gold standard in treatment for autism.
All U.S. states have laws that require insurance companies to cover autism screenings, diagnosis, and treatment. This includes coverage for ABA therapy.
Contemporary ABA therapy — the approach we take at Total Spectrum — is backed by decades of research. ABA therapy can be provided in our Learning Centers, at home, in the community, or at school.
At Total Spectrum, we personalize your child’s ABA treatment to help them:
- Build language and communication skills
- Develop social and play skills, while forming friendships
- Increase flexibility and tolerance for new routines and experiences
- Decrease behaviors that interfere with growth and learning
- Prepare for and succeed in school
How Can My Illinois Child Receive ABA Therapy Via Medicaid?
If you have Medicaid in Illinois, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Children and young adults under the age of 21 who are enrolled in Medicaid can now access ABA therapy services.
Historically, families experienced difficulties accessing ABA services through Medicaid in Illinois. However, with recent changes, families now have greater access to ABA services with companies like Total Spectrum. In Illinois, applied behavior analysis (ABA) services are called Adaptive Behavior Services (ABS), and the clinicians and BCBAs who oversee ABS services are referred to as ABS clinicians.
It’s important to keep in mind, though, that not all ABA providers accept Medicaid. It’s key to find an ABA service provider that accepts Medicaid to make sure your child’s therapy will be covered.
At Total Spectrum, we accept Medicaid and have you covered when it comes to providing ABA treatment.
What Is the Process for Getting Connected With an ABA Provider?
To access ABA therapy through Medicaid in Illinois, you need to follow these steps (If your child already has an autism diagnosis then skip to step 3.):
1. Receive a Diagnosis of Autism
If you’re concerned that your child may have autism and has not yet been diagnosed, reach out to your pediatrician to discuss your concerns and get a referral for a Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation (CDE) by a physician or licensed psychologist.
2. Select an ABA Provider
Once your CDE is complete, you can choose an ABA therapy provider from the approved list provided by your Medicaid plan. Consider factors such as location, availability, and expertise when making your choice. You can find out where Total Spectrum provides services here.
To find a list of providers, reach out to your specific Medicaid plan (Managed Care Organization):
- Aetna Better Health
- Blue Cross Community Health Plans
- YouthCare
- Meridian Health
- Molina Healthcare
- CountyCare Health Plan
3. Get an Assessment from a Behavior Analyst
Work with your chosen ABA therapy provider to get an initial assessment for ABA services from a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA). The initial assessment will include an evaluation of skills (such as communication and play skills), identification of behavior challenges, and provide recommended goals and hours for therapy.
4. Begin ABA Therapy
Once you have received your initial ABA assessment and treatment plan, you can start ABA therapy for your child.
Additional Resources
In addition to ABA therapy coverage, Illinois Medicaid offers other supports for kids with autism. These include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and more. Be sure to explore these resources to provide comprehensive care for your child or young adult.
Avoiding Roadblocks
By following the steps outlined above, you can navigate the process and avoid roadblocks.
Remember, you’re not alone in this process. Total Spectrum has dedicated professionals who can help you every step of the way. Reach out to us by clicking below.
7 Versatile Skills You’ll Gain as a Behavior Technician
Starting your career as a behavior technician can help you build valuable skills that transcend the field of autism.
It can serve as a springboard for launching a successful career in any industry, like human services or education, because it gives you a solid foundation.
Behavior technicians and behavior therapists — what we commonly refer to as BTs — develop “transferable” skills. These competencies can make you versatile and adaptable. Cultivating these talents as a BT can help you gain the expertise to excel in the field of autism. At the same time, you’ll position yourself as a well-rounded professional.
Here are seven of the top skills you’ll learn working as a BT.
1. Adaptability
As a BT, you’ll learn to adapt to different situations and environments. Autism is a complex spectrum, and each person you care for requires a unique approach. You can use this aptitude in other areas that require flexibility and quick thinking. Your ability to adjust to changing trends, new technologies, and unexpected challenges will make you stand out in the crowd.
2. Effective Communication
Communication is at the heart of behavioral therapy. As a BT, you’ll learn to communicate well with people on the autism spectrum, their loved ones, and your colleagues. You’ll cultivate the ability to share ideas, give instructions, and offer support effectively. This is essential in any field that involves working with others. Clear and concise communication fosters positive relationships. This skill prevents misunderstandings and allows for collaborative problem-solving.
3. Empathy
Working closely with people on the autism spectrum requires empathy and compassion. As a BT, you’ll learn about their challenges and truly care about their well-being. These qualities are universally valued and can benefit you in any field. Empathy and compassion create a supportive work environment. This skill also improves customer service and builds strong connections with colleagues and clients.
4. Analytical Thinking
BTs use analytical thinking to understand behaviors, identify patterns, and develop effective strategies. Knowing how to analyze data and find important information is valuable in many jobs. Whether you work in business, education, healthcare, or research, thinking analytically helps you make good choices and achieve positive outcomes.
5. Problem-Solving Abilities
Problem-solving is a fundamental skill where BTs excel. You’ll learn how to spot problems, find out why they happen, and come up with new ideas to fix them. This skill is transferable and valuable in many professions. Employers appreciate people who can face challenges directly and come up with solutions.
6. Collaboration and Teamwork
BTs work with families, other therapists, and educators as part of a team. This collaboration fosters excellent teamwork skills, which are sought-after in any field. To succeed in many jobs, it’s important to work well with others. This means sharing ideas, respecting different perspectives, and contributing effectively to group efforts.
7. Organizational Skills
As a BT, you’ll learn to manage schedules, paperwork, and resources effectively. In any job where you need to manage time and tasks, being organized is crucial. This skill helps you finish tasks on time, stay organized, and work efficiently.
Becoming a BT equips you with a diverse set of talents that can open doors to various career paths. The skills you’ll gain are highly valued in today’s job market.
To succeed in any job, it’s helpful to be adaptable, a good communicator, empathetic, analytical, a problem solver, collaborative, and organized. Cultivating these skills as a BT can propel you toward success and open doors that will get you there.
