16 years ago this month I began my career path in autism. I learned about Applied Behavior Analysis in a bachelors level psych class at UTD- Abnormal Psychology. Everyone in the class chose a different diagnosis and presented on it. One of my classmates presented on autism and talked a little about ABA and how families were always looking for therapists to come into their homes (thats how it all worked back then). I thought Id hit the jackpot...I get a job using my degree (psych) without a masters. I HAD hit the jackpot...but for a totally different reason. These children were so amazing to me. They were smart, funny, sweet...and yes quirky but in such a delightful way. And the families...it went beyond dedication. At that time insurance did not cover what is now widely accepted as medically necessary intervention. One of the 1st sets of parent with whom I worked were HS sweethearts had purchased land next to their family in the country and intended to build a home upon that land. Instead they sold it, cashed in their savings and moved to the city so they could set up an ABA program. They were my age...this could be me, I thought. Other families sold their homes, cashed in their 401Ks and moved into apartments to fund treatment. All of this made such an impact on me. And the relationships I built were so powerful. With the children, parents, other therapists. Sitting on with this one particular mom on a bench on their back patio watching her little boy swing, talking with her...it was truly a defining moment for me. There are 2 of my first boys (they are 18 now) who I am still in touch with their families. They are on different paths and both of them and their families are better because of ABA. One lives a happy life with his family. He is able to communicate his wants and needs, and can engage in basic self care. He will likely always reside with family and they are so thankful for him. The other is about to graduate HS and has no idea he was ever diagnosed as having autism. He believes I was a tutor and kind of a nanny. There are still little glimpses of his diagnosis- difficulties with certain subjects, some self-stimulatory behaviors but they are socially acceptable, he doesnt like to be the center of attention and have eyes on him and thus is good at deflecting that attention to his sister. He will attend college and likely do all those things parents want to see their children accomplish. These are very different outcomes and equally valuable to their families. If you know someone who has a child with autism ask them about their experience...truly listen to what they have gone through. If Applied Behavior Analysis isnt part of their treatment, tell them about what youve just read. Send them my way...I will happily talk to ANYONE and share information. It is the treatment with the MOST scientific evidence that it ameliorates the symptoms and deficits associated with autism spectrum disorders. Today is Worldwide Autism Awareness Day. 1:68 BE AWARE. #LIUB
Posted on: Wed, 02 Apr 2014 17:30:31 +0000
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