Parent Coaching with Kassandra Alvarez

Access your CEU Certificate by filling out THIS form.  Join our fast-growing BCBA Community by signing up HERE.  Are you a BCBA looking for a job? Apply HERE. --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 coachThe long-term impact of parent involvement in ABABuilding rapport and tailoring communication with familiesHelping parents understand behavior functions using relatable examplesMindset coaching and self-care for parentsAn introduction to Kassandra’s book Guiding Light: Navigating Autism with Empathy and ExpertiseKassandra 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 Coaching03:21 – Parent Involvement 06:38 – Building Relationships with Parents14:48 – Mindset Shifts for Parents23:57 – Effective Parent Training Techniques27:49 – Teaching Parents the Functions of Behavior29:12 – Increasing Awareness Through Examples31:15 – Engaging Parents in the Process32:59 – Building Relationships with Families34:49 – Adapting Communication Styles37:48 – Encouraging Parental Self-Care47:19 – The Book: Guiding LightLinks 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/B0DSV87NW8Want 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!