In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe catch up on some MAJOR life events for Joe and discuss what articles to read for October.
Check out this FOLDER to access the articles mentioned and join us for our recording on October 10th at 12pm Est!
*Don't have a link to join us? Email Megan@dobettercollective.us to receive it!
AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOM:
Meeting Purpose
Catch up on personal updates and plan for upcoming Do Better podcast episodes.
Key Takeaways
Personal Updates - Joe
Do Better Collective Updates
October Podcast Plans
BACB ACE Instructor Requirements Discussion
Parenting Observations
Join Dr. Megan and Special Guest, Nicole Parks, as they discuss the topics keeping them at a night in the field of behavior analysis.
Meeting Purpose
To discuss current issues keeping behavior analysts "up at night" and explore potential solutions in the field of ABA.
Key Takeaways
State Licensure Challenges
RBT Turnover and Retention
Defining Expertise in ABA
In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe interview Jerrod Zertuche about Kind Extinction and the upcoming webinar he is conducting on August 27th. Check it out to learn more!
AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOM:
Meeting Purpose
Live recording of the Do Better Podcast featuring guest Jerrod Zertuche discussing kind extinction and his unique experience in behavior analysis.
Key Takeaways
- Kind extinction incorporates validation and co-regulation into behavioral interventions, avoiding traditional extinction bursts - Mental rehearsal and somatic awareness can help practitioners become more comfortable with empathetic, validating approaches
- There's a need to shift ABA culture away from "enforcer" mentality toward more compassionate, connection-based practices
- Jared will be conducting a webinar on kind extinction for Do Better Collective on August 27th
Introduction to Kind Extinction
- Developed by Tarbox & Tarbox (2023) to incorporate validation of emotional experiences without reinforcing problem behaviors
- Allows practitioners to provide emotional support during challenging moments, rather than ignoring clients
- Shown to produce gradual behavior reduction without extinction bursts in initial research
Cognitive Dissonance in Shifting ABA Practices
- Many practitioners experience discomfort transitioning from "enforcer" role to more empathetic approaches
- Mental rehearsal and somatic awareness exercises can help build comfort with new techniques
- Shift requires vulnerability and relinquishing some control, which can feel uncomfortable initially
Benefits of Kind Extinction
- Improves social validity
- feels better for clients, families, and practitioners
- Promotes faster de-escalation of challenging behaviors
- Aligns with modern neuroscience on co-regulation and emotional support
- Cultivates safety and connection, enhancing learning potential
Challenges in ABA Culture Shift
- Many practitioners conditioned to value data/procedures over empathy
- Discomfort with vulnerability required for validation/empathy - Easier to fall back on traditional extinction despite limited evidence base
- Need for patience and understanding during transition period
Mental Rehearsal Training
- Jared plans to incorporate guided meditations and mental rehearsal in upcoming webinar
- Evidence shows mental practice improves skill acquisition (e.g. musicians, nurses)
- Can help practitioners become more fluent in kind extinction techniques
In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe catch up on a few different topics.
AI NOTES FROM FATHOM:
Meeting Purpose
Monthly recording of the Do Better podcast, discussing recent experiences and upcoming plans.
Key Takeaways
Recent International Training Experiences
Upcoming Podcast Plans
AI in ABA
In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe let the wheel decide their topic and Spring Cleaning was the winner. What behavioral strategies do you use to influence your Spring Cleaning Behavior? Who is better at spring cleaning, Megan or Joe? Tune in to find out!
Meeting Purpose
Record a live episode of the Do Better podcast discussing spring cleaning strategies.
Key Takeaways
- Spring cleaning can be approached in manageable steps, starting with small tasks to build momentum
- Digital spring cleaning (organizing files, emails, cloud storage) is an important but often overlooked area
- Setting clear rules and systems for donating/selling items can make the process smoother
- Finding motivation and time for decluttering remains challenging for many people
Topics
Spring Cleaning Strategies
- Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to build momentum
- Start with easy tasks like organizing digital files or decluttering one shelf at a time
- Set clear rules for what to keep, sell, or donate (e.g. only try to sell items worth $20+)
- Coordinate with partners/family members to tackle shared spaces
- Use small time gaps (5-10 minutes) to make incremental progress
Challenges in Decluttering
- Difficulty parting with books, even if unread
- Hesitation to get rid of clothes that might be worn again - Coordinating decluttering efforts with partners who have different approaches
- Logistics of donating/selling large items, especially in condos/apartments
Digital Organization
- Cleaning out email inboxes and cloud storage
- Organizing downloaded files into proper folders
- Backing up important files to prevent data loss
In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe discuss supervision practices and resources.
Meeting Purpose
Live recording of Do Better Podcast discussing supervision strategies in behavior analysis.
Key Takeaways
- Importance of building rapport and assessing baseline knowledge when supervising/coaching
- Effective supervision balances modeling, guided practice, and independent application
- Incorporating adult learning principles and cross-disciplinary approaches can enhance supervision
- Group supervision can be an efficient and collaborative strategy for multiple supervisees
Stakeholder Training vs. Traditional Supervision -
Joe's current role involves coaching stakeholders working with adult clients
- Focuses on providing tools and skills to those directly interacting with clients
- Differs from traditional RBT or BCBA candidate supervision
Meeting Stakeholders Where They Are
- Assessing baseline knowledge and tailoring approach to each stakeholder's background
- Avoiding jargon and starting with basics when necessary (e.g., defining behavior)
- Building skills progressively through feedback and systematic teaching
Rapport Building in Supervision
- Crucial first step before diving into technical aspects
- Demonstrating value and care for the individual being supervised
- Considering factors like dress code to appear approachable
Resources for Effective Supervision
- Books:
"Bringing Out the Best in People" by Aubrey Daniels,
"How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie -
"The ABA Supervision Handbook" for structured skill development
- Webinars on reflective leadership from Do Better Collective
- Publications by Denny Reed and Parsons on motivating human services staff
Supervision Strategies
- Using a "I do, we do, you do" direct instruction model
- Setting clear expectations for the supervision process
- Adapting to supervisee preferences (e.g., in-session feedback vs. post-session review)
Adult Learning Principles in Supervision
- Recognizing individual learning styles and preferences
- Incorporating research on adult learning, coaching, and motivation
- Exploring literature from related fields (e.g., social work) for broader perspectives
Group Supervision
- Potential time-saving strategy for supervisors with multiple supervisees
- Facilitates collaborative problem-solving and diverse perspectives
- Can be implemented periodically (e.g., monthly, quarterly) to supplement individual supervision
In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe discuss Self Regulation and the 5 Domains of stress.
Want to learn more about Self-Regulation or Neuroscience? Check out our workshop replay! Save 50% thru May 31st with code NSReplay50
Stuart Shanker's Book on Self-Reg
AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOMLive recording of the Do Better Podcast discussing self-regulation and behavioral neuroscience insights for ABA practice.
Key Takeaways
- Self-regulation skills are crucial and distinct from self-control, starting from infancy but developing throughout life
- The "marshmallow test" may measure stress response more than impulse control
- ABA practices could benefit from incorporating neuroscience insights on regulation and stress across multiple domains
- Explicit teaching of co-regulation and self-regulation skills may be necessary before tolerance/coping skills
Self-Regulation vs Self-Control
- Self-regulation involves managing arousal states and emotions
- Self-control focuses on resisting impulses but may not address underlying regulation
- Co-regulation with caregivers is key for developing self-regulation skills
- Explicit teaching of regulation strategies may be needed, not just shaping behavior
Stress and Regulation Domains
- 5 domains: biological, emotional, cognitive, social, pro-social - Biological domain (sleep, nutrition, etc.) is foundational - Assessing stress/regulation across domains can inform intervention
- Neuroception - automatic threat detection - impacts regulation
Implications for ABA Practice
- Need to assess regulation skills before/alongside other interventions
- Consider biological factors, hormones, sleep, etc. in programming
- Incorporate co-regulation and explicit self-regulation teaching
- Use more holistic intake/assessment processes
- Balance teaching tolerance with building regulation capacity
In this episode of the Do Better Podcast, Dr. Megan and Joe discuss considerations around determining treatment intensity.
Meeting Purpose
Live recording of the Do Better Podcast discussing how to determine appropriate service intensity for ABA therapy clients.
Key Takeaways
- There's a lack of standardized training/processes for determining ABA therapy hours
- New tools like POP-C (Patient Outcome Planning Calculator) are emerging to help guide decisions
- Many factors impact appropriate service intensity beyond just client needs (e.g. family capacity, funding constraints)
- More research is needed to determine optimal ways to prescribe treatment intensity
Topics
Current State of Service Intensity Decision-Making
- Historically, funding limitations often dictated hours (e.g. 6-10 hrs/week)
- Many BCBAs receive no formal training on how to determine appropriate hours
- Some organizations developing internal tools/processes, but no industry standard
- New research-based tools like POPC starting to emergePOP-C (Patient Outcome Planning Calculator)
- New tool published in 2023 to help determine service intensity
- 33-question assessment placing clients into high (30-40 hrs), medium (20-30 hrs) or low (up to 20 hrs) tiers
- Considers factors like diagnosis, behavior severity, communication skills, social avoidance
- Still in early stages
- authors seeking beta testers
Challenges in Determining Appropriate Hours
- Balancing clinical recommendations vs. family/logistical constraints
- Insurance requirements may not align with clinical judgment
- Difficulty measuring impact of prescribed vs. actual hours received
- Varying capacity of families to supplement therapy hours
- Considering opportunity costs (e.g. school time) of intensive 1:1 therapyFunding and Industry Trends
- Some providers only accepting clients who can meet minimum hour thresholds - Medicaid/insurance cutting back on covered services in some areas
- Potential for very limited covered hours (e.g. 4 hrs/month) in future
- Need for efficiency and prioritization if hours become more constrained
Next Steps
- Interested BCBAs can reach out to POP-C authors about beta testing
- Continue monitoring emerging research and tools for determining service intensity
- Consider how to adapt practices if funding becomes more limited in future
In this Episode, Dr. Megan and Joe catch up on a variety of topics: conferences, Behavioral Neuroscience, and AI!
Key Takeaways
- Do Better Collective is hosting a month-long "Rejected Conference" in December with 30+ presentations and 40+ CEs available
- Megan presented on behavioral neuroscience and rethinking functions of behavior at the recent Disrupt ABA conference
- Integrating neuroscience concepts into ABA practice can improve understanding of client behavior and treatment approaches
- AI tools like ChatGPT are helpful for organizing ideas and creating contentTopics
Rejected Conference Details
- Runs Dec 1-19 with 30+ presentations on diverse ABA topics
- 40+ CEs available, including many ethics CEs
- Flexible pricing ($50-200) with scholarship options
- Free for Trailblazer members who share about the conference
- Presentations cover wide range of topics: ethics, group learning, precision teaching, neurodiversity, etc.
Behavioral Neuroscience in ABA
- Megan presented on integrating behavioral neuroscience concepts into ABA practice
- Focus on understanding nervous system regulation (sympathetic vs parasympathetic states)
- Importance of addressing neuroscience/regulation before attempting to teach skills
- Created resources on screening for neuroscience factors and connecting to ABA
AI Tools for Content Creation
- Megan and Joe use ChatGPT to organize ideas and create content
- Voice-to-text features helpful for capturing thoughts while driving
- AI can help structure "word vomit" of ideas into coherent content
Podcast Schedule
- May skip December episode due to holidays
- Considering moving to Wednesdays in 2025 based on audience feedback
Next Steps
- Megan to share behavioral neuroscience resources and possibly do webinar in January
- Send survey about moving podcast to Wednesdays in 2025
- Promote upcoming Rejected Conference in December
In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe interview Callie Plattner about Motivational Interviewing!
AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOM Key Takeaways - Motivational interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based communication approach that can significantly enhance therapeutic relationships and outcomes in behavior analysis - MI skills (OARS: Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflections, Summaries) require intentional practice but can be transformative for client interactions - Recent research shows strong social validity for integrating MI into ABA training and practice, addressing known skill deficits in therapeutic alliance building Topics Background and Relevance of MI in ABA - Multiple recent studies (2018-2023) highlight BCBAs' lack of skills in building therapeutic relationships - Less than 6% of surveyed BCBAs had practical training in MI-related skills during education - MI has extensive evidence base in other helping professions (e.g., addiction treatment, healthcare) - Key MI outcomes align with ABA needs: increased treatment adherence, goal clarity, session attendance Core MI Skills (OARS) - Open-ended questions: Elicit detailed responses beyond yes/no (e.g., "Tell me about your weekend") - Affirmations: Recognize client strengths and efforts (e.g., "You're clearly a dedicated parent") - Reflections: Demonstrate active listening and check understanding (e.g., "It sounds like you're worried about...") - Summaries: Synthesize key points and transition topics Implementing MI in ABA Practice - Pause before offering solutions; ask additional questions and reflect to ensure full understanding - Use OARS flexibly, not necessarily in order - Practice in various contexts (e.g., emails, casual conversations) to build fluency - Adjust approach based on individual client communication preferences Research and Training Developments - 100% of BCBAs in a study agreed MI skills should be developed in the field - Organizations like Mosaic Pediatric Therapy integrating MI into staff training and onboarding - Growing number of ABA-specific MI resources and conference presentations emerging Next Steps - Attendees encouraged to explore MI resources shared during session (articles, books, recorded trainings) - Consider attending upcoming MI workshops (e.g., Stone Soup Conference, Maryland ABA in December) - Potential future Do Better workshop on MI with Callie Plattner in 2025 - Field to continue work on incorporating MI into ABA coursework, fieldwork, and continuing education
On this episode of the Do Better Podcast, Dr. Megan and Joe catch up and discuss Parenting issues we face as behavior analyst.
Key Takeaways
- The group tentatively selected a mountain goat as Do Better's mascot, symbolizing persistence and overcoming obstacles
- Parenting as a behavior analyst involves balancing analytical thinking with being present as a parent
- Contextual, collaborative approaches to parenting that explain rationales and teach problem-solving skills are preferred over rigid rule-setting
- Helping neurodivergent children navigate societal expectations while honoring their authentic selves is an ongoing challenge
Topics
Mascot Selection -
Mountain goat emerged as leading choice, representing persistence and overcoming challenges
- Other suggestions included owl, fox, wolf
- group favored an animal aligned with "trailblazer" theme
- Plan to create cartoon version; name suggestion "Doby" (pronounced "dough-be")
Parenting as a Behavior Analyst
- Challenge of balancing analytical thinking vs. being present as a parent
- Example: Flexibility around bedtime snacks, considering medication effects on appetite
- Importance of contextual decision-making rather than rigid rules
- Teaching children to make requests in advance and respect parents' time/planning needs
- Setting clear family values (e.g. "we don't lie") and explaining rationales behind rulesSupporting Neurodivergent Children
- Difficulty navigating societal expectations while honoring child's authentic self
- Explaining "neurotypical standards" as arbitrary social constructs
- Teaching self-advocacy skills when possible
- Using resources like Go Zen to address issues like negativity from a neurological perspective
Next Steps
- Finalize mascot selection and create cartoon version
- Schedule February podcast to discuss decision fatigue and long-term thinking in parenting
- Megan to upload full Do Better event calendar for the year by January 31st
In this episode Joe and Dr Megan discuss 2 upcoming conferences and a new clinical resource Dr. Megan created for FABA. Check out the links below and enjoy the show!
Conference Info:
1. CPABA
2. Rejected 2024 --> No Link yet but stay tuned for details!
AI Summary from Fathom
Meeting Purpose
Record a podcast episode discussing upcoming ABA conferences and new resources for practitioners.
Key Takeaways
Topics
CPABA Conference
Overview"Rejected" Conference
Do Better Field Guide Resource
Other Conference Mentions
In this episode Dr. Megan and Joe had the pleasure of interviewing one of the most innovative behavior analysts there is: Amanda "Mandy" Ralston. Our conversation focused on the new technology Amanda has created that is changing the landscape of how we develop treatment plans as behavior analysts. Tune in to find out more!
LINKS TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AMANDA:
Meeting purpose
Live recording of the "Do Better Podcast" featuring guest Amanda "Mandy" Ralston discussing her innovative AI-powered clinical decision support software for behavior analysts.
Key Takeaways
Introduction to Knowetic AI
KnowYeti AI Assistant
Data Collection and Future Development
Expanding ABA Beyond Autism
Amanda Ralston's Career Journey
Next Steps
At the CARES conference hosted by United Caring Partners, Dr. Megan had the pleasure of sitting on a panel presented by the folks at ABA Inside Track and the last question of the panel was: In 6 years, what do you hope to see at this conference? In today's episode, Dr. Megan, Joe, and members of the Do Better Collective discuss how they would answer this question.
We want to know your answer! Comment and let us know what you hope to see in 6 years in the field of ABA!
AI NOTES FROM FATHOM:
Meeting Purpose
Live recording of the Do Better Podcast to discuss the vision for the field of behavior analysis in 6 years
Key Takeaways
AI Utilization
BCBA Training
Human Development & Family Systems
Conference Focus
In this episode of the Do Better Podcast, Dr. Megan and Joe and members of the Do Better Collective discuss how it feels to complete a task based on an IG post about the differences people experience in feeling proud of finishing something. They also explore the research on whether it is better to focus on the process or the outcomes.
AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOM:
Meeting Purpose
Live recording of the Do Better Podcast to discuss feeling a sense of accomplishment or pride when finishing tasks
Key Takeaways
Differing Experiences of Accomplishment
Neuroscience on Process vs Outcome Focus
Shifting Practice to Reinforce Process
Next Steps
In this Episode of the Do Better Podcast, Dr. Megan interviews Vanessa Magallanez, BCBA about using ACT and Parent Coaching. Tune in to learn more!
AI Summary from Fathom:
Live recording of the Do Better Podcast to interview Vanessa Magallanez about incorporating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) into her practice as a behavior analyst and parent coach.
Key Takeaways:
Background and Getting into ACT
Recommended ACT/Parenting Resources:
Incorporating ACT into Practice:
Goals and Branching Out:
In this episode of the Do Better Podcast, Megan and Joe discuss Spring Cleaning with Do Better Trailblazer Member: Hannah Skillman.
AI Summary from Fathom:
Meeting Purpose:
Live recording of the Do Better podcast focused on spring cleaning and organizing physical and digital spaces.
This is a reboot of our 2nd ever episode on the divide between Verbal and Relational Frame Theory. Enjoy!
In this episode, Joe and Dr. Megan interview Iveth who is a BCBA practicing as a woman's empowerment coach. Iveth explains her journey with Somatic Movement and how it can affect how we understand ourselves and our clients.
Follow Iveth on Instagram:
@empowerwithiveth
@emotionawareaba
Links Shared in the Show:
Youtube Video on Healing Trauma: https://youtu.be/FKrCe9fHsSc?si=o-njPb_t8Gwhc8jk
Body Keeps the Score Book: https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748
It Didn't Start with You Book: https://www.amazon.com/Didnt-Start-You-Inherited-Family/dp/
YouTube Video on Somatic Therapy TedX Talk: https://youtu.be/UU7eSxcBhpM?si=54rjTfOfmJvivOjg
Social Emotional Resources Google Doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/18UcU8OXFwyEEjRGAXvxxaxSu_cIriMJIUs4QqYegqqs/edit?usp=drive_link
Emotional Regulation Website: www.gozen.com
Summary of Podcast from Fathom:
In this episode of the Do Better Podcast, Dr. Megan and Joe discuss goals and words for 2024 with members of the Do Better Community. What's your word for 2024?
Podcast Summary from Fathom: