If you guessed that a behavioral interventionist (BI) is someone who helps with behavior in children, you would be correct. Sometimes called behavior intervention specialists (BIS) or applied behavior analysts, behavior interventionists primarily work with children who have autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as with children with other developmental disabilities. These autistic children face many challenges, including challenges with communication, social interactions, and problems with repetitive behaviors that are rigid and hard to control. The primary job of a behavioral interventionist is to develop individual autism treatment programs to help the child develop the skills they need to function in society and as an adult. Since every child's ASD is different, these skills may include help with social skills, help with learning, and help with motor control for repetitive movements. For children in school, a focus can be to help them reduce disruptive behaviors in the classroom.ACES ABA’s mission is to elevate the standards in the treatment of autism. We are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for those individuals and their families who are impacted with autism or other special needs. We provide comprehensive, professional services to help ASD individuals so they can function at home, in school, and in their community at large. We have locations all throughout the Western United States, including Hawaii, California, Texas, Colorado, and Washington. November is Behavior Interventionist Appreciation month, so today we’ll take a look at the amazing impact these individuals are having on the lives of children everywhere. Say thank you to a BI professional, and contact ACES for more information on our autism services today!

What Does a Behavioral Interventionist Do?

As mentioned above, a behavior interventionist works with children on the autism spectrum, as well as other special needs children, to give them the life skills they need to function at home, in the classroom, and while out and about in the community. The hope is to provide these autistic children with the ability to integrate into life as "normally" as possible, that is, by providing a valuable service in some way.

What Does a Typical Day Look Like for a BI Therapist?

Behavior interventionists can be employed in many different sectors, from schools and private health agencies to counseling centers. Since every person impacted by autism is different, most of the time BIs work in a one-on-one setting. However, small groups are common as well, especially if the autistic child is working on their social skill development. Here at ACES, we offer Social Skills Training that focuses on play skills, conversation, and on understanding social rules. This autism treatment begins as a one-on-one therapy and then moves into social skills groups, giving children an opportunity to practice their new skills in a live setting.Every day is different for BIs. You may be working with multiple children in a day, or you may be focused more on social interaction groups. Some BIs work with school districts, so they travel between schools to help individual autistic children. Consultations with medical and psychological professionals take place frequently, especially if you are working in tandem with an autistic child. Plus, you'll get to interact with parents. Perhaps one of your more important, yet unsung jobs, is encouraging parents through the highs and the lows of having a child on the autism spectrum. It's certainly not something most parents want to deal with. However, once the cards are dealt, parents rise to the challenge. Parents are also crucial to reinforcing the autistic child's new skill set at home, outside, and any time they are not in treatment with you. Communication skills are super important for ensuring the success of autism treatment.

The Beauty of Behavior Interventionists' Work

Needless to say, being a behavior interventionist is a challenging career. There are days when progress is made with the autistic child you are working with, and there are days when it seems a regression has taken place. However, the reward comes in the progress and seeing parents' hopes lifted. When an autistic child says "Mama" for the first time after a year's work and the mother is in tears is the reward and where the beauty of behavior interventionist work shines forth.

Choose ACES For Your Child with Autism Today

ACES is passionate about helping individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities reach their maximum potential. We offer a wide variety of autism treatments and therapies that allows us to fully customize your autistic child’s treatment plan. Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA’s) have years of experience helping autistic children and adults. Our methodologies include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, Discrete Trial Training, PECS, Pivotal Response Training (PRT), Social Skills Training, and Visual Strategies. We use one-on-one therapy sessions, as well as social groups and gatherings, to help your child with the struggles they are facing. In addition, we offer speech and occupational therapy and early infant intervention among many other services!ACES’ therapists love seeing your autistic child progress, and although there will be hiccups along the way, the support of parents is what truly makes our work shine. If you are interested in our autism services, contact one of our locations near you. We also offer online information sessions and a free 15-minute consultation phone call to better explain our autism services in-depth. You can also ask questions as well. We personalize all of our therapies to your child’s needs, using all of our resources to provide the most optimal outcome. Reach out to our team today!