In today’s BCBA feature you’ll meet Clinical Supervisor Megan Gold and hear about the joy she finds in her job, why she is passionate about ABA, and the silver linings of working in a pandemic.
What’s the most rewarding part of your role at VB?
That answer is always the achievements of our kiddos. Whether it’s their first vocalizations or their first friend, every gain is a reward.
What’s the best part about working for VB?
The best part about working for VB has got to be the commitment of everyone working here. Every single person you meet loves what they are doing and often goes above and beyond typical expectations. At the same time, management and our administration are set up in a way to foster this spirit. We are part of an ever-growing, ever-improving organization that prioritizes staff development as much as supporting families.
How have you seen VB’s Core Values in action this last year?
The collaborative work seen at the Center is unlike any ABA company I’ve been a part of. Not only is support built-in for accountability, but there is also a genuine desire for therapist growth and development. We work together to provide high-quality therapy services for our families. At the same time, we challenge each other to grow professionally.
What surprised you the most when you first started out at VB?
To be completely honest, it’s very evident that this company is run by BCBAs. From the first moment, it was apparent that this company was better organized, more positive, and enthusiastically working to be the best ABA company possible. A competency-based approach to training as well as sophisticated resources and tracking tools make so many aspects of my daily job as a BCBA simpler. I feel I can focus more on the clinical responsibilities because I have support in training staff and completing management tasks.
What keeps you coming back each day?
The kids keep me coming back each day. There will be messes and other challenges, but there will always be tiny successes and those are worth all the hard work. Seeing the look on a kiddo’s face when they accomplish something, the look on their parent’s faces when they see their child happy, the look on my staff’s faces when their hard work pays off gives me the motivation to come to work each day!
What would you say to those just starting out their careers in ABA?
Just wait. Ask questions. There is this point in time when everything you have learned lines up, and you have an “AHA!” moment where you feel like you understand everything. At the same time, how can anyone really understand behavior – and that’s the moment you will never want to leave. And don’t worry one bit – you’re in good company!
Want to join Megan and be part of the Verbal Beginnings Team? Check out our Careers page or follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more!
