This presentation examines various dimensions of wellbeing among individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities. It will address the prevalence of co-occurring mental health conditions within populations experiencing developmental delays and analyze the effects of loneliness on psychological wellbeing. The speaker will also discuss key behavioral repertoires that support enhanced wellbeing and improved quality of life. The session contrasts deficit-based with strength-based therapeutic models, highlighting the significance of trauma-informed care. Furthermore, it outlines the incorporation of wellbeing interventions into a behavior analytic framework to foster comprehensive support and greater quality of life for this population. The presentation concludes by demonstrating how the development of these competencies can contribute to flourishing among individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities

3 Learning Objectives

1. Learners will identify the prevalence and impact of co-occurring mental health conditions in individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities, and recognize the relationship between loneliness and psychological wellbeing.
2. Learners will differentiate between deficit-based and strength-based therapeutic models, with an emphasis on the importance of trauma-informed care for enhancing quality of life.
3. Learners will acquires skills to apply wellbeing strategies within a behavior analytic framework, including practices such as gratitude, active constructive responding, and promoting behaviors associated with positive emotional experiences.

About the Presenter

Rick Gutierrez

Rick Gutierrez is both a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a Licensed Psychologist in California. He holds a Doctorate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology as well as a Master's degree focusing on Applied Behavior Analysis. With more than 25 years of hands-on experience in clinical, community, and educational settings, Rick has led numerous workshops on Applied Behavior Analysis throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, and South America. In addition, he has offered international consulting services to clinics worldwide that support individuals with developmental disabilities. Dr. Gutierrez currently serves as Chief Executive Officer at Behavior Analysts International, LLC (BAI), a clinic dedicated to providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services to individuals with developmental disabilities, with an emphasis on fostering the wellbeing of all clients and staff. He brings substantial expertise in staff training, employee retention, and engagement, as well as in the clinical treatment of individuals diagnosed with autism and other developmental disabilities. In addition to his credentials as an emotional intelligence trainer, Dr. Gutierrez has contributed research to The Analysis of Verbal Behavior. His scholarly interests include social skills, verbal behavior, problem behavior, and organizational behavior management.