Nov 4 2009
Maximum Potential Group today announces that their video-based ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy program has now been endorsed by renowned autism expert Dr. James W. Partington, Ph.D., BCBA-D. Dr. Partington is the director of Behavior Analysts, Inc., and creator of the ABLLS(R)-R and the WebABLLS(R).
Each year more and more children are diagnosed with autism. Parents and schools alike are struggling to find efficient and cost-effective ways to work with their children on the autism spectrum. Implementing a consistent, workable ABA program has long been out of reach for many school districts due to the inability to find efficient and affordable ways to train staff. "School districts' budgets often restrict them from being able to ensure that all employees that are in contact with a child with autism are properly educated," says Garrett Butch, the founder of Maximum Potential, and the father of a 7-year-old with autism. "We believe that every member of a school who interacts with a child with autism should be educated on best practices. By receiving the proper training, school staff can have a positive effect on the lives of our children."
Dr. Partington states that, "Maximum Potential is the answer to finally providing affordable and effective staff development for teachers who work with students with autism. Maximum Potential's ABA course enables a school district to not only train special education staff, but also helps all teachers improve their knowledge and outcomes for their students with autism. After taking the course, a staff member will have learned important skills such as reinforcement, prompting, Natural Environment Teaching and Behavior management. All are invaluable skills for a teacher working with a student with autism."
Dealing with the various therapies involved for overcoming autism is not only an expensive endeavor for schools, but parents as well. Maximum Potential's course is not only designed for schools; there is a parents program for those who want to bring the benefits of this therapy home. The 17-module course teaches parents, family and friends valuable skills that can be used with their child throughout the day. "Any parent who does not have the ability to hire a qualified ABA therapist because of financial or geographic constraints will find that this program is the best option for them and their child," says Dr. Partington.