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Are you underestimating the role of parents in ABA therapy? In this compelling episode of My BCBA Life, we’re joined by Kassandra Alvarez, a seasoned BCBA turned parent coach, who sheds light on how parent involvement can transform the ABA experience. From strengthening communication with families to encouraging parental self-care, this episode offers a fresh, compassionate perspective on working with families in the autism community.

Discussion Points:

• Kassandra’s transition from BCBA to parent coach
• The long-term impact of parent involvement in ABA
• Building rapport and tailoring communication with families
• Helping parents understand behavior functions using relatable examples
• Mindset coaching and self-care for parents
• An introduction to Kassandra’s book Guiding Light: Navigating Autism with Empathy and Expertise

Kassandra shares her journey from traditional ABA practice to becoming a dedicated parent coach, emphasizing that ABA is most effective when parents are informed, empowered, and supported. She walks through strategies to build trust with families, communicate more effectively, and deliver parent training that resonates. A strong advocate for holistic care, Kassandra discusses the importance of shifting parents' mindsets and fostering self-compassion. Her new book, Guiding Light, offers a supportive roadmap for parents, blending ABA knowledge with emotional resilience.

About The Guest:

Kassandra Alvarez is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with over six years of experience and a passion for empowering parents. She recently shifted her focus to parent coaching, where she integrates ABA strategies with personal development tools. Kassandra is also the author of Guiding Light: Navigating Autism with Empathy and Expertise, a resource that combines clinical insight with heartfelt guidance for families.

Key Takeaways:

• Parent involvement is essential to meaningful and lasting progress in ABA therapy.
• Trust-building and communication are foundational for effective parent-professional relationships.
• Teaching behavior functions through everyday examples improves parent understanding.
• Encouraging self-care and mindset work helps parents sustain their energy and optimism.
• Resources like Guiding Light can bridge the gap between ABA and emotional support for families.

Time Stamps:

00:47 – Transition to Parent Coaching

03:21 – Parent Involvement

06:38 – Building Relationships with Parents

14:48 – Mindset Shifts for Parents

23:57 – Effective Parent Training Techniques

27:49 – Teaching Parents the Functions of Behavior

29:12 – Increasing Awareness Through Examples

31:15 – Engaging Parents in the Process

32:59 – Building Relationships with Families

34:49 – Adapting Communication Styles

37:48 – Encouraging Parental Self-Care

47:19 – The Book: Guiding Light

Links for the Guest:

Connect with Kassandra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassandra-alvarez-5538671a4/

Get Kassandra’s book:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DSV87NW8

Want to empower the families you work with and elevate your parent training skills?

Tune in to the full episode for expert insights and compassionate guidance from Kassandra Alvarez!