Understanding How Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can be Utilized to Support System-Involved Youth

Marya Wright, DSW, MSW, BSW

Training Description

This training offers a comprehensive and essential knowledge base for professionals in various fields who engage with system-involved individuals. Participants will delve into the core principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), gaining insight into the behaviorist framework and the ABC model. The training goes further by addressing the unique challenges and ethical considerations involved in working with system-involved youth, offering practical strategies which can be used for behavior management and skill acquisition. Through case studies, interactive activities, and cultural sensitivity discussions, attendees will leave with a well-rounded understanding of ABA and the ability to apply these principles effectively in their roles. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussions and participant workbook (handout).

Learning Objectives

· Identify at least 3 core principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and distinguish between antecedents, behaviors, and consequences in real-world scenarios.

· Explain the process of developing individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs)

· Explain how to apply at least one ABA strategy effectively to address challenging behaviors, including how to compare and contrast various reinforcement and punishment techniques.

Agenda

10:00 – 10:05am  Welcome and Training Purpose

10:05 – 10:15am  Objectives and Learning Goals

10:15 – 10:30am  Importance of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in working with system-involved youth

10:30 – 10:45am  Basics of ABA

10:45 – 11:00am  Definition and core principles of ABA

11:00 – 11:15am  Key terminology and concepts

11:15 – 11:30am  Understanding system-involved youth needs

11:30 – 11:45am  The role of the professional in the lives of system-involved youth

11:45am – 12:00pm  Ethical considerations when working with this population

12:00 – 1:00pm  Lunch (CE hours will not be offered for this time)

1:00 – 1:15pm  Applying ABA Principles to System-Involved Youth

1:15 – 1:25pm  Functional behavior assessment (FBA)

1:25 – 1:30pm  Developing behavior intervention plans (BIPs)

1:30 – 1:45pm  Individualized and culturally responsive approaches

1:45 – 2:00pm  Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams

2:00 – 2:15pm  Implementing ABA Strategies

2:15 – 2:30pm  Break (CE hours will not be offered for this time)

2:30 – 2:45pm  Strategies for addressing challenging behaviors

2:45 – 3:00pm  Positive reinforcement and token economies

3:00 – 3:15pm  Cultural Competence and Sensitivity

3:15 – 3:30pm  Recognizing the importance of cultural competence in ABA

3:30 – 3:45pm  Ethical and Legal Considerations

3:45 – 4:00pm  Closing

Meet Our Trainer

Marya Wright, DSW MSW BSW, is a nationally recognized social worker, consultant, educator, and facilitator with extensive experience in organizational leadership, child welfare services, and curriculum development. As the President and CEO of Wright Community Services LLC, Dr. Wright is dedicated to empowering system-involved families through awareness, services, and education. She also provides consultation, training, and facilitation to agencies serving these communities.

Dr. Wright earned her master’s in social work from Cal State East Bay, specializing in Child Welfare Policy and Research, and a bachelor’s in social work with a focus on Child Welfare Services and Motivational Interviewing from San Diego State University. She holds a Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Southern California Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, focusing on achieving equal opportunity and justice in the child welfare system.

As a community leader, Dr. Wright prioritizes building relationships, networking, and collaborating with stakeholders to address social and economic issues faced by clients, aiming for justice and peace. She serves as a qualified expert witness and forensic social worker. Additionally, Dr. Wright sits on the Board of Directors for the California Society of Clinical Social Work and is actively involved with the National Association of Social Workers and California Chapter.

Dr. Wright’s research interests include child sexual exploitation, foster care, and algorithmic decision-making in child welfare. She has published articles and lectured extensively on these topics. Dr. Wright’s teaching experience includes courses in sociology and social work at Cal State East Bay, focusing on sexualities, child welfare policy, family sociology, and sexual violence. Currently, she serves as a professor in the graduate program teaching generalist practice, human behavior and social environment, and advance practice children youth and families.

This course meets the qualifications for (4.75) BBS CE hours for LCSWs, LMFTs, LPCCs, and LEPs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences & is provided by Fred Finch Youth Center, CAMFT Provider #045295.