Why I Started the High Touch Coaching Program
Before we dive into the lessons, let me briefly explain why I started High Touch Coaching. Since becoming a BCBA in 2003, I’ve worked one-on-one in homes and schools, contributed to Pennsylvania’s statewide autism initiative, and provided training worldwide. However, in 2015, I transitioned to online courses to expand my reach.
Over the years, thousands of parents and professionals have benefited from my step-by-step programs. Yet, many still struggled with implementation, which led me to create High Touch Coaching—a personalized, application-only program that bridges the gap between learning and real-world application with the help of an autism coach.
Now, let’s dive into the five key lessons I’ve learned from working with high-wealth families and how they can apply to you.
Lesson 1: Parents Are Confused and Overwhelmed
One of the biggest issues I’ve seen across the board—regardless of financial status—is that parents are overwhelmed. The autism diagnosis process, long waitlists, multiple therapy options, and lack of cohesive guidance create confusion.
Many parents:
Don’t know where to start after an autism diagnosis.
Struggle to navigate therapy options and early intervention services.
Are willing to do anything—move across the country, hire teams, or pay privately—yet still feel lost.
How This Applies to You
Even if you don’t have unlimited resources, you can still take clear, actionable steps. My programs provide a structured system to help you confidently implement strategies at home while coordinating with professionals, just like an autism coach would guide you through the process.
Lesson 2: Professionals Often Work in Silos
Many well-meaning professionals—speech therapists, occupational therapists, and ABA providers—operate independently, often giving contradictory advice. For example, a speech therapist might recommend eliminating a pacifier, while an OT may advise keeping it for sensory regulation. An autism coach can help you take all these recommendations and decide on one consistent approach for you and your family while bringing all the professionals onto a singular team.
How This Applies to You
You, as the parent, must become the captain of the ship. The Barbera Method provides a cohesive framework so you can confidently coordinate services and ensure your child receives consistent and effective interventions with the structured approach of High Touch Coaching.
Lesson 3: Parents Who Invest in Training See Faster Gains
Parents who take the time to educate themselves and invest in structured guidance often see the fastest and most significant progress.
For example, one of our High Touch Coaching participants—a mother of two—used my course for her older daughter, who is now thriving in a mainstream kindergarten. When her younger daughter showed early signs of autism at 18 months, she immediately enrolled in coaching, followed the proven system, and avoided an official autism diagnosis altogether.
How This Applies to You
You don’t have to wait for a diagnosis or professional availability. You can start today by using my structured courses and High Touch Coaching programs to take control of your child’s progress with the support of an autism coach.
Lesson 4: Inconsistent Handling of Problem Behaviors Leads to Bigger Issues
One of the most common challenges I see is inconsistent responses to problem behaviors. Whether it’s separation anxiety, tantrums, or difficulties with transitions, inconsistent handling creates confusion for the child and exacerbates behavioral issues.
How This Applies to You
A consistent approach is crucial. Through High Touch Coaching, we help parents implement clear behavior plans that reduce tantrums and increase positive behaviors, even in challenging situations like doctor visits, picky eating, and sleep issues.
Lesson 5: The Process Works Regardless of Age or Diagnosis
One of the biggest myths is that autism intervention is only for young children or that it doesn’t work without an official diagnosis. The truth is that the Barbera Method works for all ages and ability levels.
For example, we had a 2.5-year-old coaching participant who went from a 40% language score on the Barbera Early Childhood Assessment (BECA) to 70% in just a few months, simply by following our structured process and having the right team in place with the help of High Touch Coaching.
How This Applies to You
It’s never too early or too late to start intervention. Whether your child is 18 months, 5 years old, or a teenager, using a proven, systematic approach will help them gain skills and independence with the guidance of an autism coach.
