We are so grateful for professionals like Kylee Corken, M.A., BCBA, LBA who offer their expertise to better train and equip our CASA volunteers to be better advocates for the children we serve!
As a Behavior Analyst who is also a proud foster and adoptive parent, today's training opportunity was incredibly special. Today I had the privilege of providing an in-service training to CASA of Oklahoma County, Inc. (CASA) on the impact of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and how it can support children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the state of Oklahoma who are experiencing foster care. We discussed the fundamentals of ABA, the role of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and the wide range of services BCBAs offer, from parent training to IEP consultations. I emphasized how ABA collaborates with speech, occupational therapy, medical teams, and more to provide a holistic approach to each child’s care inclusive of each member of a child's team. One of the key points was the shift in our field toward trauma-informed care in ABA — a particularly important approach for children who have experienced trauma or instability. We explored how this method fosters trust, safety, and emotional resilience, which is vital for the children CASA serves. I left the CASA team with a vision of how ABA, in partnership with their efforts, can help these children thrive, building brighter futures through evidence-based and compassionate care. When professional meets personal, it can hit quite close to home in the best way. As a mother who has been valuably impacted by a CASA volunteer, I extend a heart-felt thank you to CASA for all your team does for children in the state of Oklahoma. Inner Circle Autism Network #ABA #BCBA #CASA #TraumaInformedCare #FosterCare #OklahomaCASA #HolisticApproach #ChildWelfare