While volunteering with children in college, I realized I wanted to work in a field where I could make a positive and meaningful impact in a child’s life. This led me to pursue Behavioural Sciences, and Reach Beyond Behaviour Therapy (RBBT) Inc. became the place and instrument to participate in a hands-on position and explore this field.
My student placement at RBBT Inc. allowed me to see theories being implemented in real-life situations. I learned firsthand from the Clinical Supervisors (Behaviour Analysts) and their incredible team of Clinical Technicians. I gained valuable experience through observing therapy sessions, running programs, collecting data, and learning different strategies to manage behaviours. This experience helped me develop important skills and gave me insights into the field that I would not have gained through classroom learning alone.
As I transitioned from a student placement into a clinical role delivering therapy under supervision, I felt motivated to expand my knowledge and skills. Being trusted with more responsibilities over time has helped me become more confident and has helped me improve both personally and professionally. I gradually became more capable in running sessions, responding to challenging behaviours, making decisions based on data, and trusting my own judgment as a Clinical Technician. The guidance and trust I received from the Clinical Supervisors, Directors, and the team allowed me to build independence while knowing support was still available when needed.
Seeing progress with my kids (clients) gave me a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose in my role. It was and continues to be truly rewarding. As Robert F. Kennedy once said, “The purpose of life is to contribute in some way to making things a little better,” and I’m proud to say I am contributing in my own way, just as others are.
Mary Bliss Opiana
