Mariah Avery: Helping children with special needs
Published 10:35 am Thursday, December 12, 2024
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Autism in children is on the rise as CDC stated about “1 in 26 children in the United States have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) – a significant increase from previous rates of 1 in 44 in 2018.”
To shed light on autism and support those affected, Mariah Avery, a local Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), has created many tactics that promote behavior support and strategies that involve celebrating and building strengths and successes. Avery’s journey into her ABA career is inspirational and unique, culminating in the establishment of Behavior Bridge Consulting at 305 S. West Street.
Originally, Avery went to school for music, but things changed when she was pregnant with her son, Ethan. Avery’s journey into autism started with Ethan’s health conditions at a young age. Avery stated, “he had a congenital heart defect and genetic condition.” Also, Ethan showed autistic traits by repetitive viewing of Sesame Street counting segments. Avery took Ethan to Marcus Autism Center where he was tested and diagnosed with Autism.
Avery was informed that Ethan needed ABA, but “back then there were not many places that had it.” Avery explained. “I called every ABA place, and it led to a 3 hour drive, and they were all either full or expensive. So, it was less expensive and faster to get a Master’s degree and do my field experience hours, but we had to move to Atlanta for a while in order to do all of that.”
After gaining experience in Tallahassee and Atlanta, Avery returned to Bainbridge and opened up her own practice. “It was too much so we moved back home. Having my own place is stressful, but it’s a lot easier too because I get to decide how we’re doing things, and how we’re treating people.”
Avery has been in business since February at the Behavior Bridge Consulting. The facility is a go-to therapy environment that’s dedicated to helping children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) navigate home and school problems. The facility offers many services, including workshops, training for families, teachers, administrators and other human service professionals. Some of the goals with ABA include helping children socialize, increase their language and communication skills, redirect behavioral problems, and much more. The facility also provides many colorful activity rooms to help kids feel comfortable.
Avery’s career is both astounding and impactful, and she’s eager to engage with community activities that benefit children with ASD. “I think if there’s interest, for sure. We’ve really been trying to get more involved in the community. We’ve definitely tried to be a part of them, but if there is interest in something like that. I think the community will tell us what they need, and we’ll do it.”
Throughout Avery’s work, she has made it possible for children with autism to find an understanding and supportive environment.
