Importance of Trained Professionals In Autism Treatment and What We Can Do to Help
Linda S. Meyer, Ed.D., BCBA, MPA
The prevalence rate of autism spectrum disorders is reported as 1:150 nationally and 1:94 in New Jersey. Professionals working in educational and treatment programs serving learners with autism spectrum disorders are expected to address a variety of needs across the lifespan. Currently, the demand for well trained professionals far exceeds the needs of the autism community. High demand and low supply situations open the door for under qualified or unqualified professionals. With this inaugural conference, Caldwell College can celebrate its ongoing commitment to quality and effective training of competent and compassionate ABA professionals as well its expansion to a Ph.D. program in the fall, 2009.
Linda Meyer, Ed.D., BCBA, MPA is the Executive Director of Autism New Jersey and a consultant in private practice (Linda S. Meyer Consulting LLC). She is the co-founder of the Alpine Learning Group in Paramus, NJ and served as its founding executive director from 1989 until 2005. She serves on the professional advisory boards of several schools and agencies serving individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Linda has presented at regional, national, and international conferences, and authored articles and book chapters on various special education, nonprofit management, and personal fitness topics. She has taught doctoral and masters level students in educational and clinical psychology programs and is currently an adjunct professor at Caldwell College, in Caldwell, NJ. Linda was recently appointed to the NJ Governor’s Council for Research and Medical Treatment of Autism.