Q&A: CABER's new telehealth model assists students with special needs during COVID-19
The bulk of Kevin Ayres’ and Joel Ringdahl’s work in the UGA Center for Autism and Behavioral Education Research (CABER) focuses on using applied behavior analysis for improving educational and behavioral outcomes for individuals with developmental disabilities.
CABER, which provides training for educators and therapists as well as services for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities, has continued to provide services to their clients during the COVID-19 pandemic. The clinic, which Ayres and Ringdahl manage together, has developed a telehealth model geared toward educational opportunities for special education students.
“From a professional standpoint, our team is bound by an ethical code that obligates us to not abandon our clients. Even in exceptional circumstances like this, we try to identify ways to support them,” Ayres said. “If you take a look at what’s happening in special education across the country, the U.S. Department of Education is basically relaxing requirements. We didn’t see that as an adequate response.”