Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Williams.
Hi Julie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
In 1996 my daughter was born with spina bifida. At 6mo old she began receiving services like physical therapy for example. Her first PT was phenomenal- I expected all professionals to demonstrate the same level of passion, commitment, and quality of intervention. I quickly realized this PT was the exception and not the norm. I wanted to add a high level of quality to the field.
I eventually earned my teaching credential and masters degree in special education. As a teacher I was assigned to an autism specific elementary program. I had an excellent mentor who shared my passion. At year 5 I was introduced to an ABA agency my district contracted with to provide staff training. This agency also shared my level of passion but they had the expertise. I was instantly inspired and wanted more! Since then and with their training, guidance, and support I have continued to learn and grow. Adding a high level of quality to the school programs and expanding beyond. From that Practical Solutions for behavior and instruction LLC was started. I recently expanded to NY and am in the early stages of development of PSBI Learning Academy, Inc. My mission to educate, train, and support the community and professionals in a progressive approach to ABA that is practically implemented in real world settings is the purpose of the two organizations.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The struggles involve opening minds to the value of progressive ABA. The professionals get locked into old ways and do not relate to the new. This unknowingly slows progress but many staff just believe the works of disability just “is what it is”.
Expectations are really low. The professionals tend to be victims of, “you don’t know until you know “. There is a great deal of resistance to change even when change is good. I find parents and families are open and want better, higher quality intervention for their family member but often do not have logistical access- barriers include highly qualified staff shortages, location, time, and money.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a Program Specialist, specializing in Autism and ABA for a school district serving approximately 1500 students with a primary eligibility of autism.
I am the founder of Practical Solutions for behavior and instruction LLC and PSBI Learning Academy, Inc.
I have a BS in Sociology
MAT with specialization in Autism
MS ABA
I am a Certified Progressive Behavior Analyst-Autism Professional (CPBA-AP)
I am most proud of my CPBA-AP because the philosophy behind the development of this certification aligns with my values and mission. Although it is a new certification and not yet well known it represents a high level of quality in the field and when employed truly helps individuals and families. I am known for my passion in the field; not only for my work with children who have ASD but for my work with all children and the development of staff skills competencies. This credential, my ongoing training from Autism Partnership, whom I believe are 2nd to none in the field of ABA , and my certification set me apart from many professionals and programs within school districts. What I and my colleagues do is rare.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
I wish I knew about progressive ABA. I wish I knew the potential of all children. I wish I knew how to take the text book concepts and principles and truly apply them in the real world, with children who are just children, with a deep understanding of the practicality of teaching. We rely heavily on the check boxes and stereotypes that we fail miserably in providing what an individual needs to be successful, independent, and happy.
Pricing:
- Consultation: Schools/Agencies $2000/day (packages avail)
- Training: Schools/Agencies $2000/day (packages available)
- FBA $300/hour
- IEP meeting and hourly services Witness Schools/Agencies $300/hour
- Private/Family services sliding scale
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pracsol4u.com
- Other: Practical Solutions for behavior and instruction LLC: practicalsolutions.jw@gmail.com PSBI Learning Academy, Inc. info@psbiacademy.org
