Recent Conferences
Florida ABA Annual Conference – Ponte Vedra Beach, FL – Paper Presentation
September 22-24, 2022
Title: Mastering Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention – The Concert
Abstract: Thirty-five years after Lovaas’ seminal work (Lovaas, 1987) early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI) remains a creative, dynamic process to help young children diagnosed with autism. Ongoing research has continued to evolve general procedures while also pinpointing fundamental guidelines. This presentation will introduce those with basic experience in EIBI to critical research that should impact their current work. Participants will learn about two often overlooked aspects of intensive, forty-hour treatment (Cohen et al., 2006; Lovaas, 1987 ; Sallows & Graupner, 2005), guidelines from progressive ABA that should influence which behavioral strategies are used (Leaf et al., 2016a; Leaf et al., 2016b), insights from instructional design that facilitate individualized EIBI curriculum development (Evans et al., 2021; Spencer, 2021), critical components of play to include in programming (Barnett, 2018; O’Keefe & McNally, 2021), the recognition of compassion as a relevant feature to providing therapeutic services to others (Schuck et al., 2021; Taylor et al., 2019) as well as to judging oneself (Moran & Ming, 2020), and additional dimensions of ABA that are starting to appear in published studies (Callahan et al., 2019; Friman, 2021; Pritchett et al., 2021; Wright, 2019). Please note that this entire presentation is set to music. In the spirit of recent Ignites at FABA, this longer presentation seeks to capture the heart of EIBI in a lively and engaging way. Come for the concert, stay for the content!
**Please download the CUE Live app from the App Store prior to the presentation in order to become part of the experience.
Black Applied Behavior Analysts Conference – Detroit, MI – Panel Discussion
June 18-20, 2022
Title: Reframing DEI: Exploring Avoidance Contingencies
Abstract: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) has become a critical area of focus within the discipline of applied behavior analysis and has resulted in a significant increase in DEI events and activities (Hilton et al., 2021). While participation in these events always includes individuals that identify with minority groups that have disproportionate representation within the field, there is no exclusionary criteria which would affect participation from others. Encouraging such behavior, which is often tacted as allyship, represents a necessity in the acquisition of ongoing progress. As behavior analysts, we have access to skills that could increase allyship behaviors in others such as attending DEI events, reshaping frames regarding DEI topics, and produce significant outcomes in future social action behavior (Sanche et al., 2020). In order to increase these critical behaviors, we must dissect the variables that may influence avoidance behaviors of those identifying as allies and those that we would like to begin engaging in behaviors that align with allyship. We must be able to bring diverse groups of individuals to the table to ensure sustainable progress. Dissecting potential avoidance contingencies, potential relational frames involved in DEI allyship, and what environmental changes can be made to increase these behaviors is the main focus of the present panel discussion.
Moderator: Candace Fay
Panelists: Dr. Amoy Hugh-Pennie, Dr. Jonathan Tarbox, Vince LaMarca
Ohio ABA Annual Conference – Virtual Event – Paper Presentation
February 11-12 2022
Title: Company-wide Implementation of a Parent Training Curriculum
ABA programs have historically emphasized parent training (Educating Children with Autism, 2001) and research continues to provide solid support for such endeavors (Deb et al., 2020; Postorino et al., 2017). However, research also indicates a need to define parent training, identify essential components, and verify social validity. This presentation will follow one organization’s efforts to do just that. Participants will learn how to implement a standardized curriculum across an organization so that all parents have foundational knowledge in ABA. The presentation will briefly review parent training research, identify available parent training curriculums, discuss the pros and cons for using a standardized curriculum, review the OBM strategies needed during the implementation process, highlight considerations based on healthcare coverage, and assess social validity from both parents and BCBA’s who were involved. Ultimately, our goal is to provide ready-to-use, practical information and resources that help in implementing a company-wide parent training curriculum for those who wish to do the same.
Hoosier ABA Conference – Virtual Event – Paper Presentation
October 12-14, 2021
Title: Flowcharting: Programming with a Purpose
Abstract: You’ve completed your assessment (VB-MAPP, ABLLS, PEAK), and you’re familiar with some manualized curricula. Only one problem. There’s no guide on how to put it all together! This presentation will provide a tutorial on a flowcharting process to help behavioral practitioners program more systematically and effectively. Flowcharts have been successfully utilized by behavior analysts in a variety of ways: to select behavior interventions that decrease problem behaviors (Geiger, Carr, & Leblanc, 2010), to identify effective treatment strategies based on a short functional assessment (Kodak, Fisher, Clements, Paden, & Dickes, 2011), and to compare different treatment protocols such as error-correction strategies (Carroll, Joachim, St Peter, Robinson, 2015). Based on this research and the author’s 25 years of experience, the presentation provides a systematic way to combine the purpose, prerequisites and possibilities of treatment to create a more effective and versatile plan for each child’s individualized programming.
Florida ABA Annual Conference – Miami, FL – Ignite Presentation
October 1, 2021
Title: I Believe: A 40+ Year History of FABA
Abstract: The creation and development of FABA these 40+ years are more than just reports of people, places, and events. It’s the tale of an idea. It’s the story of us. Join us on a 5-minute journey through the history of FABA in a version only IGNITE can tell.
*Prior to the presentation, download CUE Live from the App Store on your phone (and enable your microphone) to become part of the experience!
Florida ABA Annual Conference – Miami, FL – Paper Presentation
October 1, 2021
Title: Company-wide Implementation of a Parent Training Curriculum
Florida ABA Annual Conference – Miami, FL – Panel Discussion
September 30, 2021
Title: Where have all the White Men Gone?
Vince participated in a panel with Megan Miller, Stephanie Bolden, and Joseph Smith. The topic Where have all the White Men Gone? A panel discussion on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Milestones National Autism Conference – Virtual Event – Paper Presentation
June 16, 2021
Title: Designing Receptive Language Programs: Pushing the Boundaries of Research and Practice
Abstract: Initial difficulty with receptive language is common for some children with autism. General guidelines for teaching receptive language have been published (Grow & LeBlanc, 2013). But what to do when all else fails? Recently published in Behavior Analysis in Practice (LaMarca & LaMarca, 2018), this presentation will review 21 unique strategies that have been effective in teaching some children as well as extensive video examples of how to implement those strategies.
MassABA Annual Conference – Virtual Event – Invited Speaker
May 14, 2021
Title: Designing Receptive Language Programs: Pushing the Boundaries of Research and Practice
Do Better Collective Difficult Discussions – Virtual Event – Invited Panelist
April 29, 2021
Title: Difficult Discussion #8: Where Have All the White Men Gone?
Abstract: Vincent LaMarca, Joe Smith, and Megan Miller discuss the topic of what white men in our field are doing relating to DEI and social justice.
Do Better Collective Difficult Discussions – Virtual Event – Invited Panelist
February 21, 2021
Title: Difficult Discussions Special Event: Raw and Real Conversation about Recognizing Bias
Abstract: Adrienne Bradley is leading a discussion panel with Rose, Elizabeth, Megan, Jennifer, and Vince on moving from listening to learning to action. Adrienne plans to get raw and real in interviewing the panelists on the journey they’ve been taking in recognizing and confronting their own biases.
Do Better Collective Webinar – Virtual Event – Invited Speaker
February 18, 2021
Title: Never Settle! A Process for Ongoing Target Mastery and Creative Programming Revision
Abstract: Frequent review and ongoing modification of a child’s programming is vital for rapid progress. In fact, it appears that children should master many skills within a maximum of two weeks, and often much more quickly (Ferraioli et al., 2005). This presentation will review a process to ensure practitioners are identifying problems and finding solutions based on solid, evidence-based strategies paired with creative uses of those strategies. Ample time will be allocated for participants to practice the process with real life situations of their own.
South Carolina ABA Annual Conference – Virtual Event – Paper Presentation
October 26-30, 2020
Title: Designing Receptive Language Programs: Pushing the Boundaries of Research and Practice
Hoosier ABA Annual Conference – Virtual Event – Paper Presentation
October 16, 2020
Title: Get a Life! Creating the Appropriate Environment for Teaching Adolescents with Autism
Abstract: Tools like EFL and AFLS remind us that treatment for older children with ASD should not look the same as treatment for younger children. We not only need to reflect on what we teach, but also how we teach. Randomness vs. routine, choice vs. control, and independence vs. interdependence are all relevant factors in treatment and meaningful outcomes (Bannerman, Sheldon, Sherman, & Harchik, 1990; Bal et al., 2017). This presentation will describe important factors to consider and practical strategies to implement when treating adolescents with ASD. The experience of a large Midwest organization will be used as a case study.
ABAI 46th Annual Convention – Virtual Event – Panel Discussion
May 23-25, 2020
Title: Hello! I Am Your Student, Have You Noticed Me?
Abstract: Behavior analysts frequently say “the learner is always right” but do not always focus their attention on the behavior and responding of the student in the moment to determine how to apply the science of behavior analysis. Members of this panel will discuss how behavior analysts can encourage more responsive teaching with their learners by developing more flexible protocols, attending to learner behavior, developing creative protocols for teaching receptive language skills, and how to respond to data using the Standard Celeration Chart to adjust teaching procedures. The panel will conclude by providing attendees with the opportunity to ask the panel questions relating to attending to learner responding.
Do Better Collective Webinar – Virtual Event – Invited Panelist
April 9, 2020
Title: Telehealth: Strategies for COVID-19
Abstract: COVID-19 has impacted the way in which ABA services occur, with telehealth becoming almost overnight the preferred method of delivery. Join us for a discussion with leaders of organizations throughout the country who have navigated a path for providing effective telehealth services.
Association of Aquatic Professionals Annual Conference – Dallas, TX – Paper Presentation
February 17-20, 2020
Title: Teaching Lifesaving Swim Skills to Children with Autism
Abstract: 1 in 59 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. While some may learn to swim in typical swim programs, many need significant support and additional help. This presentation reviews practical teaching strategies to improve swim skill development based on the science of behavior analysis. Video examples and audience participation will be used so that swim instructors gain insights that can be applied in their current swim programs.
Emerald Coast ABA Workshop – Panama City, FL – Invited Speaker
January 30, 2020
Title: Early Intervention Hacks: Tips and Tricks to Creating Dynamic ABA Therapy
Abstract: Our field is young. Although it started over 50 years ago, like Baby Yoda, applied behavior analysis is still in its infancy. Your journey in ABA began in a specific time and place too. Often, those early experiences have a great impact on how we practice in the field. They sometimes influence the choices we make in ABA therapy for years to come just as much as High School Musical shaped our desire for more Zach Efron movies. The presenters’ experience in ABA began at the Lovaas Institute, and we are unabashedly fans of Dr. Lovaas’ work. Tension always exists between what one generation has learned/practiced based on the current evidence and what the next generation discovers through ongoing research. We must both learn from the past while looking forward to the future. This presentation provides examples of ABA packages and guidelines that have shaped our early intervention practice for the past 25 years. Through video, research, and discussion, we will highlight why they appear to have stood the test of time, but what research remains. Participants will leave with concrete strategies and guidelines that may be different from their own experience. Because we all come from different times and places, we expect reactions to range from calling us “kewl” to calling us “Boomers.” Regardless, we hope our presentation raises questions as compelling as when we all debated whether Snape was good or evil. Join us as we take a nostalgic look at lesser-known ABA strategies and practice guidelines that still appear relevant today.
America Speech-Language-Hearing Association National Conference – Orlando, FL – Paper Presentation
November 21-23, 2019
Title: Designing Receptive Language Programs: Pushing the Boundaries of Research and Practice
America Speech-Language-Hearing Association National Conference – Orlando, FL – Paper Presentation
November 21-23, 2019
Title: A Clinician’s Guide to Programming Conversation Skills for Young Children with Autism, Nov 2019
Abstract: Instructional design is an area of research that focuses on the systems and processes used to develop education and training programs (Gustafson, 2002). Most often associated with curriculum development in education, it has also been applied in other fields such as business (Larsson & Lockee, 2004) and medicine (Cheung, 2016). Behavior analysts would do well to gain basic knowledge in instructional design and practical experience in its application. Most university courses in behavior analysis focus on the development of intervention plans for a single behavior or small set of behaviors (e.g., decrease screaming while increasing mands). However, many behavior analysts go on to practice comprehensive ABA treatment in which multiple skills are developed over multiple developmental domains. This presentation, recently submitted for publication, will briefly review insights from instructional design and then apply one model to the development of conversation skills. Based on a review of more than 35 conversation articles and 5 common conversation curriculums, participants will be able to describe how to program conversation skills, an important area of child development that has received less attention than initial programming. Participants will also be prepared to apply that method of instructional design to comprehensive ABA treatment in general.
Hoosier ABA Annual Conference – Plainfield, IN – Paper Presentation
October 16-18, 2019
Title: A Clinician’s Guide to Programming Conversation Skills for Young Children with Autism
Florida ABA Annual Conference – Jacksonville, FL – Workshop
September 18-21, 2019
Title: Designing Receptive Language Programs: Pushing the Boundaries of Research and Practice
Florida ABA Annual Conference – Jacksonville, FL – Paper Presentation
September 18-21, 2019
Title: Get a Life! Creating the Appropriate Environment for Teaching Adolescents with Autism
Florida ABA Annual Conference – Jacksonville, FL – Ignite Presentation
September 18-21, 2019
Title: That Moment When You
Abstract: The third in a three-part series on exceptional ABA techs, this presentation hopes to persuade those who train technicians that after hiring Fantastically Irresistible Genuinely Joyful Amazingly Motivated therapists who are willing to do Whatever It Takes to help a child with autism, the most important thing a BCBA can do is empower them to use their own clinical judgement. Let technicians have their Moment.
First Steps Indiana State Conference – Bloomington, IN – Paper Presentation
June 13-14, 2019
Title: Tips and Tricks for the Reluctant Toddler: Facilitating Play Skills in Young Children with Autism
Abstract: A primary deficit for children with autism is social interaction. The comprehensive nature of this deficit makes teaching play skills significantly more challenging than with other disabilities. It is not uncommon to encounter very young children with autism who don’t want anything to do with early intervention or whose progress remains relatively slow. This presentation explores the contribution of behavioral strategies to teaching play skills. The presenter will use a general curriculum scope and sequence to demonstrate how these strategies can lead to the successful development of new play skills, and how those play skills can be supported by parents. Practical tips and tricks will be provided, based on the presenter’s 24 years of experience delivering early intervention services in Indiana.
Florida ABA Annual Conference – Bonita Springs, FL – Paper Presentation
September 12-15, 2018
Title: Flowcharting: Programming with a Purpose
Florida ABA Annual Conference – Bonita Springs, FL – Ignite Presentation
September 12-15, 2018
Title: Whatever It Takes
Abstract: Reinforcement is the most important factor of effective ABA therapy. The best technicians not only identify effective reinforcers, they create effective reinforcers. The following presentation is meant to inspire the imagination of technician’s and behavior analysts so that they may answer Dr.Lovaas’ call to do whatever it takes to help a child learn.
Women in Behavior Analysis Conference – Nashville, TN – Paper Presentation
March 22-23, 2018
Title: Designing Receptive Language Programs: Pushing the Boundaries of Research and Practice
