Today’s post is written by Ben Sarcia, Director of Verbal Beginning’s Healthy Beginnings program If your child eats only a very small range of foods—or refuses entire food groups—you may have heard the term ARFID, or Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. ARFID is used to describe extreme food selectivity or food refusal that goes…
At Verbal Beginnings, growth often starts with a single step—and few journeys capture that better than Danitra Etheridge’s. Joining the organization in 2017 as an in-home RBT, Danitra is now Clinical Director of the Frederick Center where she continues to shape the experiences of clients, families, and emerging clinicians alike. In this interview, Danitra reflects…
The Verbal Beginnings team recently had the joy of attending the Maryland Association for Behavior Analysis (MABA) conference — and we didn’t just attend, we showed up. As a Premier Level Sponsor, Verbal Beginnings was proud to support an event that brings together behavior analysts, students, researchers, and practitioners who are all committed to advancing…
By Ben Sarcia, Director of Healthy Beginnings at Verbal Beginnings For so many caregivers, the Thanksgiving dinner is one of anticipation. This includes excitement and dread. As a father of two, I typically try to balance my responsibilities of keeping the fireplace roaring while attempting to perfectly execute recipes that I prepare only one time…
From in-home technician to Center Director, Andrew Padilla’s journey at Verbal Beginnings is a story of growth, mentorship, and finding purpose through leadership. What started as a part-time role during his undergraduate studies quickly evolved into a fulfilling career helping others reach their potential—both in the field of ABA and within the VB community. How…
At Verbal Beginnings, every team member has a story — one shaped by growth, opportunity, and a shared sense of purpose. For Eddie Collins, that story began with a leap of faith. After a decade in the fast-paced world of movie theatre management, he was searching for something more meaningful — a career that made…
At Verbal Beginnings, growth isn’t just encouraged—it’s built into everything we do. From mentorship to meaningful career pathways, every team member has the opportunity to turn passion into progress. Erin Kitzmiller’s journey from an entry-level technician to Director of Program Operations is a powerful example of what’s possible when dedication meets opportunity. How did you…
When Sarah joined Verbal Beginnings, she wasn’t just looking for a new job — she was searching for a company that truly meant what it said about valuing people. After years in the corporate recruiting world, she found herself craving authenticity, balance, and purpose. Six months later, as a Talent Acquisition Sourcer, Sarah has found…
Relocating for a new job is never an easy decision—but for Pam La Mountain, it was the right one! Drawn to Verbal Beginnings’ reputation for ethical, high-quality ABA services and a culture that truly values both clients and staff, Pam saw an exciting chance to take her career—and her life—in a new direction. With VB’s…
If you’re a parent looking for ways to support your child with autism or other developmental needs, you’ve probably heard of something called ABA therapy. But what does that really mean? Let’s break it down in a simple, easy-to-understand way—because we know you’ve got enough on your plate already! So, What Is ABA Therapy?…
By Emily Summers, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA Welcome to navigating the IEP process for children on the Autism Spectrum. It is a crucial aspect for families navigating the educational landscape for children with autism. Understanding the IEP process can be overwhelming, but with the right information and preparation, you can become your child’s strongest advocate. Understanding…
By: Lindsey Kellar, MA, CCC-SLP Welcome to our deep dive into the world of understanding Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). This post is dedicated to families, educators, and professionals who are exploring AAC as a means to enhance communication for individuals with speech and language challenges. We’ll cover the fundamentals of AAC, dispel common myths,…
Proper diet and nutrition are crucial for all children, but they hold particular significance for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Many children with autism exhibit food selectivity, which can adversely affect their health, development, and behavior. In this blog, we will explore the intricate relationship between diet and autism, delving into nutritional deficiencies, dietary…
By: Brittany Cephas, M.Ed., LCPC, NCC As parents of children with autism, we often find ourselves caught up in the whirlwind of daily responsibilities, therapy sessions, and the unique challenges that come with raising a child with special needs. It’s all too easy to overlook our own well-being amidst the demands of caregiving. However, prioritizing…
By Justine O’Meara MS, BCBA, LBA As summer approaches, many families with children on the autism spectrum face a unique challenge: how to maintain their child’s progress while ensuring they have a fun and engaging break from school. The summer months can often lead to regression in skills, making it crucial for parents to consider…
By: Andrea Bennett and LIsa Frank, Educational and Behavioral Consultants Navigating the special education system can feel overwhelming, especially for parents of children with developmental delays transitioning from preschool to elementary school. This blog aims to outline the essential steps involved in the special education process, focusing on how to ensure your child receives the…
Welcome to our deep dive into the essential strategies for supporting children on the autism spectrum, particularly in the context of trauma and social emotional learning (SEL). The intersection of these topics is vital for fostering resilience and well-being in our children. In this blog, we will explore adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), trauma-informed care, and…
By: Rebecca Womack, MS, BCBA, LBA Welcome to our exploration of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services, where we aim to equip families with the essential information they need to navigate this journey effectively. Understanding what to expect from ABA services can empower caregivers and enhance the treatment experience for their children. Let’s dive into what…
By: Graciela Gomez, BCBA Navigating the world of autism services can be overwhelming for parents. Understanding the various programs for children with autism available, how to identify quality services, and the importance of early intervention is crucial for ensuring the best outcomes for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In this guide, we will…
By: Justine O’Meara, M.A., BCBA, LBA Summer is an exciting time for children, but for those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it can also pose unique challenges. As the school year wraps up, parents often worry about their children regressing in skills. Enrolling your child in a summer program can be a game-changer. In this…