BCBA & Regional Clinical Director: JP
1. Introduce yourself - who are you, what do you do, and how can people reach you.
Hello! My name is John Paul but everyone calls me JP! I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Regional Clinical Director for an ABA company that focuses on individuals with autism and other developmental disorders. I can be reached by email: jpquiocho@gmail.com
2. For those who may be unfamiliar with your career, briefly describe the aspects and responsibilities of the position.
Whenever other people ask me this question and I answer I’m in behavior therapy, I sometimes get, “OH, so you’re a psychologist?” or “you’re a doctor?”. This shows how unfamiliar and how new this field is. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is basically a method of therapy used to improve or change specific behaviors. It is the recommended treatment for children with autism or other developmental disorders.
As a BCBA and director, I am responsible for providing clinical management and oversight to our staff and designing and implementing individualized program goals for consumers and parents so that they can make efficient progress toward achievable outcomes. Additionally, I provide behavior analytic assessment and treatment in our client’s residence or community setting, develop programs for assessment and progress reports, and coordinate care with other service providers.
3. There are days that can be tough, how do you stay motivated?
With today’s climate, it is very difficult to stay motivated. I sometimes find myself going through waves of anxiety and depression. Usually, hanging out with family and friends would help my mood. But with stricter restrictions, it’s hard to see them physically. Instead, I have to change my mindset in certain areas in my life so that I can better take care of myself. For example,
i. I have to be optimistic and know that we can overcome the pandemic.
ii. I have to surround myself with goal-driven people who inspire me to be better
iii. I have to celebrate and praise myself for the little things and for going through the day.
iv. I have to create my own space to unwind and decompress
v. Lastly, I have to reprioritize what is important to me and my physical health, emotional health, and mental health
4. What is your favorite part of your career and why?
My most favorite thing about my career is seeing my little kiddos and their parents smile whenever their child masters a goal for the first time. Whether it’s saying their first word, using the bathroom for the first time, or simply having a good day without any behaviors; any progress is growth for the child.
5. You're quite the runner as well, how do you make time for your fitness and your career?
I try my best to add fitness into my routine. If you really have the motivation, you would make time for it. Whether it is doing calisthenics in-home or going out for a run, it’s pretty easy to get moving. You just have to push yourself. I’ve actually recently tried CrossFit for the first time a couple of weeks ago. They have classes in the mornings and evenings that makes it easy for me to go before or after work. People have different reasons for working out. Honestly, I just want a 6 pack and the ability to eat whatever I want without getting fat.
6. Many people define the success of their lives by the number of things they accomplish. How do you personally define success?
Success can come in different forms and not so much defined by how much money you’re making, what your title is, or what your education level may be. It’s so much more than that. For some people, getting through the day is a success. Personally, I think success is whatever you have accomplished that makes you happy.
7. When it comes to representation in your industry, how do you feel with the current situation and what do you think the industry needs to work on still?
I’ve actually recently attended a workshop regarding cultural responsiveness and representation in our field. Stats show that over 70% of BCBAs are white and over 70% are women. There is SO MUCH MORE my field needs to work on and that’s hiring and encouraging people of different backgrounds to pursue their BCBA.
8. You are always such a bright light to those around you, what's your secret to always seeing the good in people and situations?
I always see the good in everyone because we don’t know what the other person is going through. We are all human and we all have our good days and bad days. We should not always judge someone for their one bad day or one bad action. When you practice empathy, you are also practicing compassion and kindness, which is something we also need in this world.
9. If you could tell your younger self one thing, what would it be?
I would tell myself to be more open and expressive. I was a very shy and timid person growing up, always afraid to share my opinion. Growing up in a very conservative home, I learned to internalize my feelings. I would tell young JP to be more confident and that his opinions matter too.
10. What is one thing you wish people did more of?
I wish more people would be nonjudgmental. Everyone is so quick to judge people based on their appearance, skin color, sexual orientation, age, or even their past. I wish everyone would put more effort into getting to know each other rather than be hypercritical. I think this is why people put masks up because of the fear of being judged. If everyone practiced being more open-minded, everyone can be more of themselves and be free.
