As we go into our 60th anniversary there is exciting news on the horizon for Woodhaven, as we proudly announce the launch of a new and innovative specialty program, Behavioral Analysis Therapy Services. Fueled by a commitment to our existing employees and a vision of cutting-edge growth, Woodhaven Leadership is thrilled to introduce a transformative service that not only invests in our team’s added value but also sets the stage for unparalleled opportunities and development.
In a strategic move to elevate clinical excellence, Woodhaven is introducing tuition assistance for its valued employees. This win/win initiative aims to empower and support those team members who are willing to step up and contribute to a higher standard of clinical care. As part of this groundbreaking vision, Woodhaven is dedicated to providing financial support through tuition assistance, coupled with a reduction of case hours for employees pursuing further education.
A shining example of this commitment is Andrea Anderson, a former Program Manager at Woodhaven who recently achieved Board Certification as a Behavioral Analyst (BCBA). Her accomplishment in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) — a therapy rooted in the science of learning and behavior — exemplifies the caliber of professionals we aim to nurture within our organization.
The new service will extend its support to individuals with learning disabilities, Autism, Neurodivergence, and anyone with behavioral needs requiring the refinement of social skills, language, or communication. Available to both Woodhaven community residents and those within Boone County, this program signifies a significant step towards inclusivity and community impact.
Andrea Anderson is not only an advocate for this service but also a trailblazer in training our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to become Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs). This initiative empowers them to identify the need for behavior services and providers, creating a robust support network within our organization.
Obtaining a certificate in this specialized field is no small feat, requiring a graduate degree, completion of relevant courses, 2,000 hours of supervised practice, and success in board exams and state licensure. Andrea’s dedication to achieving this while working full-time at Woodhaven over a three-year period is a testament to the passion and commitment that drives our team.
With only a handful of Board Certified Behavior Analysts in our region working directly with individuals facing significant challenges, the demand for these services is substantial. Woodhaven’s program, with its emphasis on staff training and professional growth, promises not only positive impacts on individual success outcomes but also a boost in employee retention.
This service also aligns with Organizational Behavior Management (OBM), offering coaching for any employee seeking to maximize success in their position. The therapy qualifying process involves observation, intervention, recommendations, choice of service provider, data collection, plan design and implementation, iterative changes, and tracking for effective intervention.
For those eager to learn more about this groundbreaking venture, we invite you to connect with Andrea Anderson at aanderson@woodhaventeam.org or call 573-303-4428. Woodhaven is thrilled to embark on this journey of growth, learning, and excellence, and we look forward to the positive impact it will have on both our team and the community we serve.