A not so brief history of BehaviorTech Solutions

Back in the old days...

In 1998 I formed BehaviorTech Solutions in order to create technology-based solutions to augment and enhance clinical assessment and treatment with clients having difficulties with behavior at school and/or home; interfering anxiety; and social skill challenges.  I noticed the potential usefulness of incorporating technology and treatment in the early 1970's as a research assistant at Sea World, San Diego.  I built a water play system for sick isolated dolphins in holding tanks.  Two interesting findings came from this which have I carried through in my interventions to the present day:

1. Technology can be a powerful method for reducing maladaptive behavior and increasing motivation;

2. Human contact is more meaningful than interacting with machines, but humans can't necessarily be available 24 hours per day.

I began using technology with children in the late 1970's when I built a vibrating teddy bear for a multiply-handicapped severely self-injurious client in a state institution.  As a means of teaching her how to operate the device, I included several types of adaptive switches that responded to her touch, arm position.  I learned that seemingly simple things, such as the type of switch, involved more understanding of her preferences than I first realized.  For example, the first switch allowed her to simply turn it on and leave it on.  But, I realized that I didn't know if she was truly motivated to use the device.  So, I changed the switch to a "momentary-contact" type, meaning that she had to keep the button pressed to activate the vibrating teddy bear.  I learned a great deal from this simple change.  Not only was she motivated, but she likely to pulse the switch, briefly holding it down then releasing, something that was much easier with this newer switch than the original.

In a way, this was probably my first attempt to create a "user interface."  I think of an interface as not just applying to computers, but anytime a client interacts with an object, whether it is a web-based data form, a toy, or learning a new behavior.  In other words, developing treatments and activities that are meaningful from the client's perspective is key.

Current situation....

Software Programs:  Currently we have two web-based programs in use with clients:  Rapid Screener, Progress Communicator.  At present, only Rapid Screener is available for use by qualified clinicians. 

Training:  I am approved by the the American Psychological Association and through the California Board of Behavioral Sciences to offer CE credits to mental health professionals.  My primary interest is in teaching others inexpensive, simple to use, methods for effectively incorporating useful technology into the treatment and assessment process.  Click here or call the office at (818) 788-2100 if you would like further information.

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