Multidisciplinary care is becoming increasingly common, with more and more practices offering ABA, speech, OT, Physical therapy, and other services under a single roof. There are many benefits to multidisciplinary care for learners with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including enhanced outcomes and increased client and caregiver satisfaction. However, the benefits extend to the clinicians as well. BCBAs working in a multidisciplinary care setting experience many unique benefits, resulting in a more satisfied and fulfilling career. Let’s explore why many clinicians pursue multidisciplinary organizations in their career search.
What is a Multidisciplinary Care Clinic?
A multidisciplinary care clinic is a practice that employs clinicians across disciplines. Autism is a spectrum disorder that impacts individuals in many different ways. Multidisciplinary teams elevate outcomes through a whole-child approach. They work together to ensure their shared learners receive holistic care, addressing their unique, multifaceted needs.
Within the autism care field, multidisciplinary teams typically consist of:
- ABA providers, including Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs)–ABA therapists support the development of communication, social, and life skills. They also improve behaviors that are harmful or interfere with the learner’s quality of life.
- Speech Therapy providers, including Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) and Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs)–Speech therapists improve speech, language, and communication skills. Some SLPs also specialize in feeding, swallowing, and other oral motor challenges.
- Occupational Therapy providers, including Occupational Therapists (OTs) and Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs)–Occupational therapists target the skills learners need to engage in everyday activities, like play, grooming, dressing, and attending to learning. They also support emotional regulation and sensory processing.
- Physical Therapy providers, including Physical Therapists (PTs) and Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs)–Physical Therapists help children develop strength, coordination, posture, and balance, enabling them to participate more effectively in functional activities, play, and more.
Some multidisciplinary practices also include mental health providers including psychologists and Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs).
What are the Benefits of Working for a Multidisciplinary Care Practice?
Working as part of a collaborative team in a multidisciplinary clinic provides numerous benefits for BCBAs. The advantages are multifaceted, from knowledge-sharing opportunities to enhanced communication and client retention.
- Leveraging Knowledge from Other Experts–No one is an expert in everything. Professionals in other disciplines often have a wealth of information to share regarding their areas of expertise. Multidisciplinary clinics offer BCBAs a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights that allow them to ensure their learners receive comprehensive care addressing every aspect of their development. For example, on-site collaboration with Speech-Language Pathologists enables BCBAs to identify the most appropriate mode of communication to target for a non-speaking learner.
- Opportunities for Professional Growth–Multidisciplinary teams foster an environment of professional growth and ongoing learning. Access to professionals across disciplines within the same organization allows behavior analysts to continuously learn from others, enhancing the effectiveness of care and improving outcomes.
- Improved Job Satisfaction–With a diverse team of professionals supporting each client, behavior analysts feel supported, empowered, and fulfilled in their careers. A team approach to care also puts less pressure on the BCBA, resulting in less likelihood of burnout.
- Reduced Barriers–There are many potential barriers to effective care delivery, especially when a learner requires care from multiple providers. Having all pediatric therapies under a single roof minimizes several common obstacles that may otherwise impact a BCBAs ability to do their job well. An integrated environment means easier access to other professionals, streamlined communication and scheduling, and alignment in treatment plans.
- Client Retention–Receiving all therapies in a single location may improve family engagement and satisfaction, thus improving retention rates. Satisfied families and client retention make for a more fulfilling work experience.
Embrace Multidisciplinary Team Collaboration
Working in a multidisciplinary clinic empowers BCBAs and other clinicians by offering a collaborative environment of shared expertise and comprehensive client care. This collaboration elevates client outcomes while improving job satisfaction for behavior analysts, ensuring a fulfilling career. Multidisciplinary BCBAs can play a key role in a holistic, innovative care model. Embrace a multidisciplinary care approach to thrive in your career while making a meaningful impact on your learners’ lives.
CompleatKidz takes a team approach to care with ABA, Speech, OT, and PT under one roof. We provide comprehensive care in clinics across North Carolina. Are you looking for a rewarding career in pediatric therapy? Explore what CompleatKidz can offer! Check out our current career openings to find your perfect role.
References
Fulceri, F., Gila, L., Caruso, A., Micai, M., Romano, G., & Scattoni, M. L. (2023). Building Bricks of Integrated Care Pathway for Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(7). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24076222
LaFrance, D. L., Weiss, M. J., Kazemi, E., Gerenser, J., & Dobres, J. (2019). Multidisciplinary Teaming: Enhancing Collaboration through Increased Understanding. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 12(3), 709-726. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-019-00331-y
Strunk, J., Leisen, M., & Schubert, C. (2017). Using a multidisciplinary approach with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Interprofessional Education & Practice, 8, 60-68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xjep.2017.03.009
