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Functional communication can be a powerful and universal skill when supporting individuals across all diagnoses, ages, and ability levels. Strengthening functional communication means strengthening a person’s ability to meet their needs safely. Whether a person communicates through speech, gestures, sign language, AAC devices, eye gaze, communication boards, or emerging vocalizations, the ability to express needs effectively can dramatically decrease challenging behaviors and

Behavioral Skills Training (BST), is an evidence-based teaching approach that is based on applied behavior analysis. It helps to enable people with acquired adaptive behaviors or practical adaptive skills that can be viewed as healthy alternatives to unsafe or maladaptive actions. The process occurs in the four structured phases of the learning-instruction, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback-to guarantee consistent learning, generalization, and long-term change in the behavior

The Premack Principle, sometimes known as “grandma’s rule” is a theory of reinforcement that states someone is more likely to engage with a less-preferred activity if it is followed by a more-preferred activity. It is a ubiquitous and common-sense intervention utilized in all behavioral clinics and households alike. It is often utilized in clinical settings through the use of “First-Then” language where a clinician may say something like “first clean up these toys, then we ca

What Is Schizoaffective Disorder?  “Schizoaffective disorder (SAD) is one of the most complex and controversial diagnoses in clinical psychiatry,” according to Pavlichenko et al. (2024). The DSM-5 defines Schizoaffective Disorder as a condition involving both psychotic symptoms (such as hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized thinking) and mood symptoms (either depressive or manic episodes). In simpler terms, Schizoaffective Disorder can feel like a combination of Schizoph

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a Cluster B personality disorder characterized by impulsivity and instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and affects. The estimated prevalence in the general population is between 0.7% and 2.7%. Common features of BPD include impulsivity, an intense fear of abandonment, and chronic feelings of emptiness. One hallmark defense mechanism is “splitting”: a tendency to view others as entirely good or entirely bad, which oft

As technology continues to shape the way we connect with others, online communication has become an important part of everyday life for many adults, including those on the autism spectrum. The internet offers countless opportunities for self-expression, friendship, and even romantic connection. However, just as with any social setting, online interactions require awareness, boundaries, and safety practices to ensure that individuals are protected from potential harm. The Orga

Collaborative problem solving (CPS)  is an evidence-based approach to conflict resolution that involves a fully collaborative approach...

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide remains one of the most significant public health challenges, and providers who...

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) experience significantly poorer   oral health outcomes compared to the...

Social connections are fundamental to human well-being, providing a sense of belonging, emotional support, and opportunities for personal...

Many people with autism who do not speak vocally are not truly non-verbal. They can communicate in meaningful ways; they just need a...

It is common to assume all individuals on the autism spectrum have high sensitivities related to sensory input. There is an assumption...

Over the last decade, fentanyl has changed from being a tool used to manage severe medical pain to a major catalyst of the opioid crisis....

In a recent newsletter , we explained the purpose of a Positive Behavior Support Plan (PBSP) and the importance of effective training. ...

Supporting individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) requires skilled strategies to be implemented daily. These...

Sensory Processing Disorders (SPDs) significantly impact daily life, making common experiences overwhelming or even painful. These...

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT, pronounced as the word "act") is a "3rd wave" behavioral therapy developed by Steven Hayes. It is...

What is Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?  Borderline Personality Disorder, or BPD, is a serious mental health condition that...