12/20/15
Two nationally recognized leaders in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) have joined forces to meet the growing demand for highly trained, board certified treatment professionals in autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. The new partnership will result in master’s-level training opportunities beginning in February.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social interactions and social communication and by restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior. It affects the development of the brain, causing difficulty with behavior, communication, learning, and social interaction.
The rate of ASD is increasing across the country, with approximately one in 68 children affected by this developmental disability. The most effective treatment identified in psychological and educational research is intensive ABA intervention. This intervention includes a host of well-studied, proven techniques to assist the recipient in improving social and communications skills.
With more children diagnosed with ASD than ever before, there is an urgent and increasing need for board certified behavior analysts and teachers certified in Severe Special Education.
The courses will take place at May Institute’s campus in Randolph, Mass., making it especially convenient for May employees and area residents interested in the program.
Courses are also available remotely, enabling on-line learning opportunities for long-distance and out-of-state students, and others unable to travel to the Randolph site for classes.
This new partnership creates three options for master's-level training in ABA. Students can select to pursue: (1) an M.Ed. in Applied Behavior Analysis; (2) certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst; or (3) teacher certification in Severe Special Education/Applied Behavior Analysis.
Enrollment is open to May Institute employees as well as individuals outside the organization interested in pursuing these kinds of educational opportunities. Classes begin February 2016 at May Institute’s Randolph campus at 41 Pacella Park Drive.
According to Van Loan Endicott’s ABA director Dr. Thomas Zane, “We are delighted to be partnering with May Institute. The combination of their broad and deep experience working with people who have developmental disabilities and our rigorous academic training program will ensure the highest level care for this population.”
The Institute for Behavioral Studies at the Van Loan School at Endicott College is a recognized academic leader in the field of training at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels. The Institute’s faculty members are nationally recognized in the field of behavior analysis.
“We are pleased to collaborate with Endicott College on this initiative that will have an immediate and long-term impact on the individuals we serve,” states Deidre Donaldson, Ph.D., ABPP, May Institute’s Chief Clinical Officer. “Both organizations are dedicated to improving clinical understanding and creating new learning opportunities for the next generation of leaders in special education and the field of Applied Behavior Analysis.”
For more information, to inquire about upcoming classes, or to learn more about the Institute for Applied Behavior Analysis at the Van Loan School, Endicott College, visit vanloan.endicott.edu/aba or contact Allyson Penaloza at 978-816-7642 or email at apenaloz@endicott.edu.
To enroll online, visit: www.endicott.edu/VanLoan/Registrar
About the Van Loan School at Endicott College:
Endicott College is a small, seaside private college just north of Boston, with a strong community and a proven experiential learning model. The mission of Endicott College is to instill in students an understanding of and an appreciation for professional and liberal studies.
The Van Loan School at Endicott College provides competitive academic programs for adult learners who wish to receive doctoral, master’s, bachelor’s or associate degrees. Van Loan School offers in-person, blended-classroom and on-line programs from its main campus and at many partner sites across the state and around the world.
About May Institute:
May Institute is an award-winning nonprofit organization with 60 years of experience in serving children and adults with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities, brain injury, and behavioral health needs. The organization provides educational, rehabilitative, and behavioral healthcare services to individuals, as well as training and consultation services to professionals, organizations, and public school systems. At more than 150 service locations across the country, highly trained staff works to create new and more effective ways to meet the special needs of individuals and families across the lifespan. To learn more, visit www.mayinstitute.org or call 800.778.7601.