Autism Services



"Because Tears Are Not A Food Group"



Theresa Bartholomew, M.S., BCBA Theresa is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst who has worked with children diagnosed with:


· Autism

· Down syndrome

· Prader-Willi syndrome

· Esophagitis

· ADHD/ADD

· Sensory Processing Disorder

· Anxiety

· Gastrostomy Tubes (G-Tubes)

· Chewing Difficulties


She has been in the field for over 27 years and has worked using the principles of applied behavior analysis to improve the eating habits of children for over 17 years.


It's important to understand the long term impact feeding has on the child and their family and that the sooner support is given, the easier it will be long term. It's critical to change the thinking that it's just "picky eating" and the child will grow out of it. ​


Not only does her experience come from clinical practice, it came from her own personal experiences. Theresa’s own son experienced feeding challenges. This gives Theresa a unique understanding of the challenges each family faces and allows her to individualize a program grounded in research and geared towards long term success.



AssesSment





Each new client is required to have a full feeding assessment completed prior to the start of any direct or consultative services. ​


It is critical that assessments are completed by individuals who have an understanding of not just ABA, but recognize when collaboration and continuity of care may be needed with other professionals to ensure your child receives the most comprehensive treatment approach possible.


Parents will complete a pre-assessment packet in preparation for the assessment day.



POST AssesSment FOLLOW-UP





After the assessment has been completed, each family will have a follow-up meeting to review assessment results and recommended treatment plan. Upon agreement of the plan, scheduling of the treatment can take place.



Specialty Services: Pill Swallowing





Parents often struggle with giving a variety of medications, whether over the counter or prescription. They often have to hide medications in food and liquids or make special requests from their physicians. In addition, sometimes families are not able to access certain medications due to their child's inability to swallow pills. We provide a special assessment and support for pill swallowing.



parent training





Parent training has been established as an effective tool to support and address feeding challenges. The Parent Meal Plan is designed to establish, generalize and maintain healthy eating habits in the home setting through parent education. JBC’s goal is to provide families with support to address their child's feeding challenges, through weekly education, homework and consultation.



CLINICIAN AREA





Helping clinical teams support their client's feeding needs while insuring they are practicing within the boundaries of their competence ​


CEU's are available for all BCBA's attending our team trainings


Team Training

Have a small team that needs training/support for feeding? Contact us to schedule a consult for your small team training (2-6 people)


Company Trainings

Have a moderate sized team that needs training/support for feeding? Contact us to schedule a consult for your company team training (7-20 people)


Corporate Trainings

Have a large sized team that needs training/support for feeding? Contact us to schedule a consult for you corporate team training (21-40 people)


BACB Supervision

If you need supervision hours, please contact us to review the details and requirements for BACB hours.



FEEDING SERVICES FAQ's





Q: DO YOU TAKE INSURANCE?

A: We take some insurances and private pay. Please contact our main office number for more information.


Q: DOES MY CHILD HAVE TO PARTICIAPTE IN A ABA PROGRAM TO GET FEEDING INTERVETNION?

A: No, while we do offer ABA programs, you can received feeding support. However, please note that each insurance is different and may have different requirements.


Q. EVERYONE INCLUDING MY DOCTOR, SAYS ITS JUST PICKY EATING AND MY CHILD WILL GROW OUT OF IT, IS THAT TRUE?

A. 25% of typically developing children and up to 80% of children with developmental disabilities have feeding disorders (Manikam & Perman, 2000). Between 46% -89% of children with autism spectrum disorders have feeding disorder (Ledford & East 2006).


Q: HOW LONG WILL MY CHILD NEED SERVICES?

A. There is no definitive answer we can give you about treatment duration. Each child responds differently and therefore discharge is different. However, parents will have access to data, progress and consult with BCBA regarding all treatment decisions, including discharge.



Call Now!
(714) 829-4138


Adult SLS Services