As early as 1978, Sepler and Myers noted in the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis that learning to effectively implement behavioral treatment was not easy. Attending a series of lectures or reading books on behavioral treatment does not generalize into an ability to provide quality treatment (http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1311286). Again in 2000, Dr. Lovaas emphasized the importance of quality control in behavioral treatment replication research. In fact, both replication research studies – Sallows, 2005 and Howard, 2006 – not only required years of experience from those supervising treatment, they also included checks for accuracy through direct observation of the staff implementing treatment.

Currently at the Lovaas Institute, we train instructors in such a way that emphasis is placed on the evaluation of performance-based objectives, relevant to the implementation of behavioral treatment for children with autism. Our internal certification process requires a demonstration of the skills you have learned. Certification indicates to parents and other professionals that you not only know what to do, but can actually do it.

We frequently receive emails asking for training in the Lovaas Model of Applied Behavior Analysis. This is not meant to downplay the importance or relevance of training in behavioral treatment or applied behavior analysis in general that all behavior analysts receive. However, it is understandable that there is a desire to more extensively learn the treatment protocols used by Dr. Lovaas in his initial studies and in the replication research. Because of the amount of time devoted to direct observation and feedback to those being trained, certification has always remained an internal process, until now.

At the Augusta Levy Learning Center in West Virginia, we are attempting to bridge the gap between services we provide at the Lovaas Institute and services provided at other centers. We are especially proud that this collaboration has allowed for quality treatment in smaller towns and communities where families have historically had access to few treatment options. You can see this amazing collaboration and its results at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vpa1BYEiGtQ

What we learn from this endeavor we hope to apply more extensively in the future.