Amanda O.

Hometown

Providence, NC

What I Do To De-stress In My Free Time

I exercise daily. Running, cycling, and lifting weights really help me clear my head. Snuggling with my pups helps too!

My Work Style

I believe successful ABA programs involve teamwork. It’s so important to collaborate with parents, the behavior technician, and other caregivers or therapists (i.e., teachers, SLPs, OTs, PTs, etc.). I firmly believe that it truly “takes a village”. Generalization and independence of skills across multiple environments and individuals is the ultimate goal. Although it varies per child, I tend to use natural environment teaching for goal implementation.

Areas of Expertise

Communication deficits, social skills deficits, verbal behavior, academic skills, independent living skills

What I Do To De-stress In My Free Time

I exercise daily. Running, cycling, and lifting weights really help me clear my head. Snuggling with my pups helps too!

Why I Became a BCBA

I have always wanted to work with children. I studied speech language pathology for my undergrad and I was very interested in learning more about working with individuals with autism. I started working as a behavior technician with a child with autism my senior year of college and he changed my life! From the moment I met him, I knew I wanted to help him and other children with autism. Working with him felt very natural to me and the progress he made gave me a sense of pride. Shortly after meeting him and his family, I started my path to becoming a BCBA.

What Previous Clients Would Say About Me

They would probably say that I am very patient and always think outside the box.

What I Love Most About What I Do

Seeing the progress each client makes and improving their independence and quality of life.

Most Challenging Professional Moment

I am a military spouse and have to move every few years due to my husband’s job. It’s always difficult to say “goodbye” to clients and their families.

Most Rewarding Professional Moment

Helping an older client with autism who was also blind communicate verbally for the first time. I used music to motivate this client and increase language.