As a behavioral assistant, I once worked with a family led by a parent who was an attorney—headstrong, assertive, and set on directing how the support services should be managed. Naturally, lawyers are trained to advocate and take control, so she was confident in her approach. She felt certain that the services her family received needed to align with her perspective for them to be effective. Although she didn’t fully understand the specifics of my role as a behavioral assistant, she assumed that her guidance would lead to the best outcomes.
In this situation, I found myself balancing the needs of the family with maintaining professional boundaries and my expertise. I offered her multiple chances to collaborate, providing space for her input while gently reinforcing the structure necessary for impactful service delivery. While I respected her desire to advocate for her family, I had to assert my own understanding of what could best benefit her child’s progress and the family’s overall well-being.
Working with assertive families as a behavioral assistant can be challenging, yet it highlights the importance of clear communication, empathy, and boundaries. This experience reminded me that my role isn’t just about following directions; it’s about using my skills to guide families toward sustainable solutions. By understanding each family’s unique dynamics while remaining firm in my professional approach, I can foster a collaborative atmosphere that truly supports growth and positive change.
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First and foremost I am a father, people-person and Entrepreneur!
I’m also a behavioral assistant and part owner of a private mental health practice in Somerset, New Jersey.
