Board Certified Behavior Analyst

• May 2022 - Present

Behavior Therapist

• Aug 2020 - Dec 2021

As a behavior therapist in the behavior services department, I worked closely with multiple Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) in the Esperanza Therapeutic Day School and in the Adult Day Program. I created skill acquisition plans and behavior reduction plans for students, adult clients and staff. The health, safety, independence and well-being of all students and clients was a top priority. Based on frequent classroom and staff observations, I collected, reviewed and graphed data for student, client and staff behavior. In addition, I created staff trainings and coached staff while working directly with students. My recommendations for the BCBAs and for staff were data-driven. When observation results were inconclusive, I found other creative approaches to solving problems and providing solutions. I used a wide range of assessments and measurement tools, such as functional behavior assessments, preference assessments, skills assessments, interviews and surveys. I created unique measurement tools, such as pre and post-tests for various staff trainings. I received frequent supervision with several BCBAs, in which we discussed not only student and client progress, but also the rationale behind various behavioral approaches. Working alongside classroom staff, I demonstrated the integration of individualized intervention plans. It was crucial that I could individualize behavior programming to best meet the often idiosyncratic needs of each individual. I also had the opportunity to research extensively when creating programs for the students and adults, and translate behavior analytic research and evidence-based practices into the applied setting. On a daily basis, I collaborated with other service professionals such as special education teachers, paraprofessionals, speech pathologists, occupational therapists and social workers to promote the best possible outcomes for those we served. Show less

Faculty Assistant in the Department of Applied Behavior Analysis, Office of Placement and Training

• May 2020 - Dec 2021

During my master's education experience, I had the opportunity to work for the school in multiple positions. As an assistant to several faculty members in the Applied Behavior Analysis Department, I made curriculum updates to a master's level class through identifying reading assignments that aligned with course learning objectives while adhering to task list items and creating practice activities to support students’ engagement and understanding. I submitted drafts and example products to ensure I was delivering accurate content, and I showed creativity by developing fun activities that were challenging and often used humor. I established my own reasonable deadlines to submit work and delivered on time. My performance was recognized such that I was hired to other positions throughout the rest of my time in graduate school. I served as a notetaker for multiple courses, a position which required me to take accurate, detailed, easy to understand notes for students with disability accommodations. I also functioned as a teaching assistant for 3 classes in a single semester. I created weekly PowerPoint presentations based on the course material and frequently communicated with the instructors. My responsibilities included grading study guides weekly and meeting with students. In addition, I designed some formatting of the courses for future semesters. I worked one-on-one with a faculty member and gathered resources for their review. In the Office of Placement and Training, I handled confidential student files and communicated with site partners for student internship placements. I collaborated across all departments with training directors from all of The Chicago School's locations nationwide. In all of these positions, I frequently worked on projects independently. Show less

ABA Line Therapist

• Dec 2019 - May 2020

As an ABA line therapist, I served children with autism and other disabilities in a clinic. I worked 1 to 1 with multiple clients ages 2-6 with a wide array of behaviors and repertoires. I utilized the concepts and principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) to observe and respond to various behaviors, as well as increase skill acquisition. I received frequent supervision from a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) and regular, data-driven feedback. I collected a variety of data every day in Catalyst, and reviewed graphing in Central Reach. I collaborated with speech pathologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists and social workers to assess individual client needs and progress. Show less

Therapeutic Assistant

• May 2019 - Dec 2019

Working in a therapeutic preschool, I supported children with disabilities ages 2-6 throughout the school day. My focus was to guide the children in developing daily living skills and promote their independence. I collaborated with occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech language pathologists, registered behavior technicians and Board Certified Behavior Analysts. As a team, we ensured children with disabilities received quality care. I collected data on individual behavior and progress in a variety of areas. I relied heavily on play-based, positive support to promote the health and wellness of all students. Show less

Family Worker

• Dec 2017 - Feb 2019

I worked in a Head Start and Early Head Start preschool providing social services to children and families, including advocating for disability services. My role entailed conducting family assessments, creating mutually-agreed upon goals and providing support to families to achieve their goals. I focused on ensuring parents were engaged in their children's education. I enjoyed spending time in the classrooms, observing and supporting the young students. I managed cases for 40+ families, which required highly detailed daily documentation and maintenance of confidential files. I connected with community resources for further advancement of low-income families; advocated for children with suspected and confirmed developmental concerns or disabilities, monitored their IFSPs and IEPs and supported their families in the process; as well as determined eligibility and completed enrollment of students. I often mediated between families, teachers, Chicago Public Schools and mental and behavioral consultants. Show less

County Caseworker II (bilingual)

• Jul 2015 - Jun 2017

As a child welfare caseworker in Pittsburgh, PA, my responsibilities included: intake of client information; prompt investigations; assessing and ensuring child safety, well-being and permanence; developing a strengths-based, professional relationship with families; advocating for children and families across micro and mezzo levels; ensuring culturally competent services while navigating sensitive situations, such as families losing custody of their children to the state, all while managing a caseload averaging 20-30 cases. I gained experience writing petitions and presenting in juvenile court, reviewing extensive case note histories, daily documentation of objective facts, navigating critical situations with diverse groups, and time-management in a high-stress environment. The families I served came from a wide range of backgrounds, some similar and some different from my own. As a caseworker, it was my responsibility to see a case through from start to finish. I relied heavily on building rapport with families and children to deliver the best possible outcomes for everyone involved. Show less

Jumpstart Corps Member and Family Involvement Coordinator

• Aug 2012 - Apr 2015

Collaborating on a team, I supported low-income preschools to enhance literacy skills in 3-5 year old children. We simultaneously built on their social-emotional development through increased adult support in the classroom. I chose a leadership position as a Family Involvement Coordinator; I enjoyed organizing, creating and supervising family involvement events designed to engage families in their child's early education and the Jumpstart program. Also, I proofread documents that corps members sent home to parents. Show less