As practitioners in the field of ABA, the shift to telepractice has posed numerous challenges, but also opportunities for innovation and improved access. The research article by Frederick et al. (2021) outlines key strategies to promote and sustain access to ABA services through telepractice. Here are the primary takeaways that can enhance your practice:
Commitment to Telepractice
Telepractice should be viewed not just as an alternative, but as a safeguard for accessing ABA services during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. This commitment requires a proactive approach, including preparatory activities with learners and their caregivers.
Collaboration with Caregivers and External Teams
Effective telepractice hinges on robust collaboration with caregivers and external teams. This involves:
- Conducting open-ended interviews to understand caregiver needs and challenges.
- Engaging in regular check-ins and collaborative planning sessions.
- Providing training and support materials for caregivers to facilitate telepractice sessions.
Problem Resolution Strategies
Practitioners must adopt a problem-solving approach to overcome barriers in telepractice. Key strategies include:
- Identifying learner profiles to tailor interventions effectively.
- Developing specific protocols to address learner and caregiver barriers.
- Using data-driven decision-making to continuously refine telepractice models.
Training and Support
Investing in training for both Behavior Technicians (BTs) and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) is crucial. Training should cover:
- Technological competencies and troubleshooting.
- Clinical components of telepractice, including session structure and behavior management.
- Empathic listening and collaborative planning with caregivers.
Outcomes and Social Validity
Initial outcomes from implementing these strategies have been promising, with increased access to ABA services and positive feedback from caregivers. Continuous evaluation and sharing of data are essential to further refine telepractice models and enhance social validity.
In conclusion, the commitment to telepractice, collaboration with caregivers, problem resolution strategies, and comprehensive training can significantly improve access to ABA services during crises. Practitioners are encouraged to adopt these strategies and contribute to the growing body of research on telepractice in ABA.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Commitment, Collaboration, and Problem Resolution to Promote and Sustain Access to Multifaceted Applied Behavior-Analytic Services Utilizing Telepractice
