In today’s BCBA feature you’ll meet Clinical Supervisor Emily Summers as she talks about the surprise she found out on her second day of work and what keeps her coming back each day.
What’s the most rewarding part of your role at VB?
The most rewarding part of the job is watching (and being a part of) client and therapist growth as a result of Applied Behavior Analysis. By witnessing client development on a daily basis, I’m filled with pride and joy. The team is able to celebrate together when a new socially significant skill is demonstrated. When a therapist can develop a relationship with their learner and implement instructional programming with fidelity, the excitement is palpable. Another impactful part of the job is regularly interacting with families and developing relationships. As a parent myself, I recognize the value of having support and I’m thankful to be in a role where I can work with families in a supportive role.
What’s the best part about working for VB?
The vast group of professionals with whom I get to work both directly and indirectly!
How have you seen VB’s Core Values in action this last year?
Opportunities for collaboration have been presented via special projects including the rollout of SME and the new therapist training. I’m very excited to see where the Subject Matter Experts (SME) program will go in the next few years. The project certainly aims to increase collaboration between professionals and encourages professional growth in a “niche”.
What surprised you the most when you first started out at VB?
I found out I was pregnant on my second day of work – that was a surprise! My career path shifted, and I transitioned into the field (rather than working in the center) and I couldn’t be happier. VBF has a way of making everyone feel a sense of community despite not working face-to-face with one another. I’ve been surprised and impressed by the effort put forward by all to work as a team, share knowledge, and grow, as practitioners, together.
What keeps you coming back each day?
Flexibility with my work schedule makes my efforts to be fully present at work and at home (where I have two young children) entirely possible. I’ve managed to raise two young children while continuing to work in a job that I am very passionate about.
What would you say to those just starting out their careers in ABA?
Buckle up! There is something new to tackle every day but with the support of colleagues and clients’ families, you can achieve great things.
Want to join Emily and be part of the Verbal Beginnings Team? Check out our Careers page or follow us on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok for more!