We are delighted to welcome Jodie Mientkiewicz, MA, BCBA to the new position of ABA Clinic Supervisor at the Michigan School Psychological Clinic. Jodie will supervise the MSP students who are completing their clinical training hours at the Clinic.
Give us a snapshot of your professional/academic background.
I just finished up a 13 year career as a special education teacher working with all different disabilities and children from preschool to post secondary education. I received my teaching degree from Eastern Michigan University, my masters degree from Marygrove College, and my ABA certificate from Michigan State University.
How has your career led you to MSP?
I have always been fascinated by behaviors and learning why they occur. While teaching I studied Applied Behavior Analysis and sent on to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I have always loved teaching so when the opportunity arose at MSP, to teach others about working with those who have certain behaviors, my passion, I knew I had to jump at the chance.
Describe your role at the Clinic
While in the clinic, I will be working closely with and supervising the ABA/MA practicum students. I will be guiding them in learning about ABA, implementation of assessments, programs, and parent trainings. I will also be overseeing the Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI) clients, clients as young as 2 years old.
What is your vision for the MSP clinic? Five years from now, what will the clinic look and feel like?
My vision for the MSP clinic is for it to grow to its full potential. We have an amazing opportunity through MSP to reach out to those in the community who are in need of services that they may not have access to. As for the ABA portion of the clinic, in 5 years I would love to see ABA services for individuals of all ages, not only focusing on early intervention, but on social skills for individuals with disabilities and using ABA for job coaching with adults.
Why do you think a clinic at MSP is important to open now?
I always like to think that there is no time like the present. I think that we as Americans are facing a turning point in our country and there is a great need for mental health support. I believe that students learn from application and under the direction of Clinic Director Jim Maher, PhD and myself, we can support MSP students to really help them focus on making societal changes not only for mental health, but for people with disabilities as well.
What are you looking forward to most in the ABA Clinic?
I was always meant to be a teacher, I was just never sure what it was supposed to look like. I am most looking forward to working with the MSP practicum students and imparting not only the knowledge I have, but the passion for ABA that I have as well. I am also looking forward to working with preschool age children and creating an environment for behavior change that will benefit them throughout their lives. I have seen it done first hand and it can be very powerful to witness.
Name one thing that people may be surprised to learn about you.
I have a secret obsession (although not so secret now) with the TV show The X-Files, as well as binge watching the same shows over and over again for the predictability.
