Every June 18, we recognize Autistic Pride Day to celebrate the full identity, value and dignity of autistic people. In honor of Autistic Pride Day, we are highlighting our Autism/Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) team’s Apprentice Program. This program empowers future clinicians to deliver neuro-affirming care rooted in respect, dignity and inclusion.
Lauren & Keeley, Autism & ABA Apprentices
Our ABA Apprenticeship Program offers masters level students of Applied Behavior Analysis, pursuing their credential with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), a full-time, immersive experience. Under the mentorship of experienced Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), apprentices engage in hands-on clinical work, including developing treatment plans, conducting assessments, supervising team members and collaborating with families. The training prioritizes cultural responsiveness, flexibility and reflective practice, ensuring that future clinicians are well-equipped to support autistic individuals.
“This program is designed to prepare future BCBAs not just to do the work, but to do it well! ESPH supports its clinicians so they can give the best care to the people they work with. The Apprenticeship Program is one way we help make that happen,” says Natalie, Easterseals PORT Health’s Statewide Clinical Director for Autism/ABA Services.
ESPH’s Autism/ABA team stands out in the field for our strong commitment to quality care over meeting quotas. Apprentices benefit from weekly one-on-one mentorship, leadership-focused clinical development, paid access to state conferences and intentionally small caseloads. This supportive environment fosters discernment and ethical practice, ensuring that care delivered is person-centered.
As the field of ABA evolves, ESPH leads with integrity. Our Autism/ABA team celebrates growth and works to make sure that both clinicians and the people they support have the opportunity to truly thrive!
For more information about our Autism/ABA services, visit eastersealsport.com/aba-team.
ABOUT US
Easterseals PORT Health is a trustworthy, compassionate partner providing exceptional disability, behavioral health and addiction treatment services to help our neighbors live their best lives. Purpose, dedication and empathy drive our in-person and telehealth service delivery. Our diverse and inclusive 2,600 member team provides more than 10.2 million hours of meaningful support to 40,200 kids, adults and families in 11,000 home, facility and community locations across North Carolina and Virginia. Learn more at eastersealsPORT.com.
