Bio

Karen Nohelty is currently the Director of Research and Development at 360 Behavioral Health. With 20 years of experience in the field of ABA, she has contributed to the field through published articles, conference presentations, and trainings on various topics. Her current research interests include safety skills, compassionate care, and assent, with an emphasis on identifying tools and strategies to empower caregivers and clients. 

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Abstract

This presentation is designed to provide clinicians with practical tools for effectively assessing caregiver values and translating them into therapy goals. By listening to caregivers and incorporating their feedback, clinicians can become better partners with families. Clinicians will be provided with strategies for conducting focused discussions with caregivers to uncover their values and priorities that are grounded in compassionate care. The difference between values and priorities will be discussed as well as the differential impact they have on developing treatment goals. Through case examples, participants will learn to translate caregiver values and priorities into actionable therapy goals. Common challenges that clinicians may encounter in this process will be shared, along with problem-solving techniques to overcome them. Overall, the presentation will provide clinicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster meaningful collaborations with caregivers, ensuring that treatment plans are not only evidence-based but also deeply rooted in the values and aspirations of families.

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Objectives​​

1. Participants will be able to identify at least 2 strategies to aid in effectively assessing caregiver values and priorities to inform therapy goals and interventions.

2. Participants will be able to identify common challenges that may be encountered when gathering information on caregiver values and priorities.

3. Participants will be able to identify strategies to address misalignment between caregiver values/priorities and clinician concerns (e.g., clinician assessment of client needs, scope of ABA, funder requirements).