Association for Behavior Analysis International

The increasing availability of behavior analytic services for individuals with autism is addressing a critical service gap, yet a significant portion of providers are relatively new to the practice, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for the field. Each service delivery model, whether a school, clinic, or consultancy, needs mechanisms to ensure that providers are relying on best practice informed by research, teaching socially relevant and important skills to learners, and contributing to the growth and development of its service providers along the way. This presentation explores the pillars of a strong clinical service delivery model situated in a school for learners with autism. Those pillars include an ecosystem for professional development and research, both of which then offer the opportunity for continuous program improvement; a system for identifying and teaching important skills that relies on the principles of behavior analysis; and a well-considered set of logistical practices that are specifically designed to meet the needs of learners with autism. This presentation highlights NECC's commitment to evidence-based practices and its ongoing contributions to advancing autism education.

Dr. Jessica Sassi is President and Chief Executive Officer at the New England Center for Children, a school committed to transforming the lives of children with autism through education, research, and technology.  Dr. Sassi’s professional interests include the functional analysis and treatment of severe behavior disorders, education and support for those with autism, and public policy advocacy for those most severely affected by autism. Dr. Sassi graduated with her doctorate in Behavior Analysis from the University of Florida in 2007. She taught and mentored master’s and doctoral students as faculty in the Western New England University programs in Behavior Analysis, and served as guest Action Editor and Reviewer for several journals, including the Journals of Applied Behavior Analysis and Behavioral Interventions.  Dr. Sassi is a board member of the Massachusetts Association of Private Special Education Schools and serves as Non-Legislative Member of the Massachusetts Autism Commission.