Hello! My name is Maggie Wade, and I’m a Senior Behavior Therapist in SARRC’s Family and Community Services department. I originally started my journey in the Community School but made the switch about a year ago.
Can you tell us a little about your job as a Senior Behavior Therapist?
As a Senior Behavior Therapist on the Family and Community Services team, I focus on providing training opportunities for incoming staff on the path of obtaining their Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) credential! I meet a new group of team members roughly every two weeks and go through an extensive training process of coaching them through the clinical tools needed to succeed.
What is a skill you’ve gained or grown since working at SARRC?
When starting at SARRC, I had no experience in the field of applied behavioral analysis (ABA) – it was my first time working with individuals with an autism diagnosis. Since then, I have worked with some great clients and staff members. I’ve learned so much about navigating different behaviors, specifically focusing on meeting learners at their skill level. My previous and current roles have taught me a great deal of flexibility and how to apply ABA knowledge to my responsibilities on a day-to-day basis.
What are the top three skills someone in your position should have/learn to be successful?
Flexibility is necessary for this field, specifically within my current role. Things happen, and everyone’s trying their best, so sometimes you must roll with the punches.
Leadership would be the next one. It takes a lot of work to guide new employees and set them on the best path for their success within the field, and a lot of that comes with having leadership skills.
Lastly, I would say organization. SARRC is continuing to hire amazing individuals to be a part of our team, and organizational skills are pertinent in ensuring that all trainee’s needs are met throughout their learning process.
Is there an achievement or contribution you’re most proud of?
Currently, I’m in the last semester of my master’s program at the University of West Florida, which is a significant achievement for me. I will be obtaining a graduate degree in Exceptional Student Education with an emphasis on Applied Behavior Analysis. Once finished, I’m hoping to complete my BCBA accrual hours and sit for the big exam.
What is one of the most memorable experiences you’ve had at SARRC?
I’ve had many rewarding experiences while working at SARRC. Within my current role, I find trainee feedback to be one of the most rewarding experiences. It’s a great feeling when you’ve put a lot of work into preparing someone for their role and they tell you how grateful they are for the guidance.
INSPIRED BY Maggie’s CAREER AND IMPACT?
Learn more about career opportunities at SARRC by browsing our open job positions at autismcenter.org/careers!