Let’s Start with the Training…
We know our onboarding process takes longer and is much more involved than many other agencies in our area. We simply don’t find the 40-hour online modules required by DOH adequate preparation for our BTs to perform their jobs well. So, there is also a 12-hour in-house training led by our BCBA training manager, Nicole Climer, followed by at least 4 2+ hour shadows (during which new hires observe a Lead BT working with their client). 60+ hours of training just to start at Perch… that should be adequate, right? No way.
Each quarter, we pull our entire group together for an all-day, all-staff training to learn about a clinical topic together as a team
All clinical staff complete annual Safety Care re-certification courses with our Perch SCT trainers Madison, Gabrielle, and Nicole (a full day for renewal, two full days for initial certs)
Our Lead BTs complete another, additional (!!) training dedicated to their unique roles within the agency at least once every 6-9 months.
You might be asking why anyone would require so many training hours for their employees knowing that this time is paid at the company’s expense. The answer is simple: it’s worth it.
Here’s why:
We’re in this for the long-run:
While we embrace the fact that our presence in a client’s daily life is temporary and we are always working to fade our services as efficiently as possible, we must also respect that consistency is key. Underprepared and under supported staff (BTs and BCBAs alike) are much more likely to experience the burnout, exhaustion, and frustration that will inevitably lead these otherwise incredible helpers to abandon our field. So, a canceled session today means Perch clients see less staff turnover with the added benefit of increased competency gained through regular, ongoing training.
HRE is not just for clients:
We want to be Happy, Relaxed, and Engaged, too. Taking time to care for our people means that our people are better able to take care of others.
So, better training = greater competency and overall decreased turnover. What else can be done to keep good people in ABA?
Meet our BT Ambassador, Michael Park!
As BT Ambassador, Michael serves as an invaluable resource to his peers. His regular outreach provides a safe, understanding outlet for fellow BTs to share their uniquely complex challenges, celebrate small moments, and seek guidance. Even better, Michael plans regular BT social gatherings for our frontline staff to get to know one another.