Behavioral Technicians (BTs) use a science-based technique called Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help people on the autism spectum develop essential life skills and work through behavioral issues. The support is provided in one-on-one encounters with the person with autism in a clinic setting. In our daily work as clinicians we collect data on a variety of behaviors. Data is collected on behaviors we want to improve as well as behaviors that may impede a child’s ability to learn or work in a less restrictive environment, such as aggression, elopement, or even property destruction. Further, data may be collected on numerous dimensions of behavior such as frequency, duration, latency to respond, and specific steps in a chain of behaviors. Data is later analyzed to write a daily report on session.

Over the summer I had the opportunity to intern at Shoreline Behavioral Health and Wellness completing intakes for new patients who are looking for either a medication provider (psychiatrist / psych APRN) or a therapist.