Dr. Sarah Williams: Trauma-Informed ABA Therapy and Supporting Black Children with Autism

Free Workshop

Increase Talking &
Decrease Tantrums

in Young Children with

Autism &/or Speech Delays

I met Dr. Sarah Williams on TikTok, where she has a huge following. She’s a BCBA-D with both a master’s and a doctorate in applied behavior analysis, and she is also a black woman. We talk about not only social media and her business and supporting families with and without a diagnosis, but also the unique challenges and obstacles of families who are black, and professionals, especially BCBAs, who might be having some challenges in a mostly white field.

Barriers for a Black Person with Autism

One of the biggest challenges Dr. Sarah sees in her work with black families is a lack of resources, and also a lack of knowledge of the resources that are available. There is also a stigma around diagnoses, which can lead to not being accepted by family members and the community. There are also strong religious aspects, as well as trauma and a lack of time to dedicate to treatment programs.

ABA in the Black Autism Community

Black professionals make up just 10% of all BCBAs. Through her social media presence, Dr. Sarah has been able to touch more families and bring awareness of ABA resources. Advocacy should always be focused on the solution and a willingness to work together to make positive strides in the field.

Advice for Black Families with Children on the Spectrum

Education is key and Dr. Sarah believes when a community is educated on the resources available to them, they’re more likely to accept and receive needed intervention and treatment. Clear communication is also important, as getting a late diagnosis can greatly impact the long-term success of the child when they reach adulthood.
Trauma-informed ABA Therapy and Supporting Black Children with Autism with Dr. Sarah Williams

Dr. Sarah N. Williams on the Turn Autism Around Podcast

Dr. Sarah N. Williams-Katuli otherwise known as Dr. Sarah Nicole is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and has contributed to the field of Behavior Analysis since 2006. She holds both a Master’s and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Applied Behavior Analysis. She has been honored to provide support to many families that require services for a member of their family that has been diagnosed with a disability. Some of the diagnoses include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, Intellectual disability, and individuals that require mental health services.

She has worked in the school, home, and regional center settings. Such experiences have allotted her the privilege to collaborate with a wide range of professionals (i.e. speech therapists, occupation therapists, teachers, advocates, licensed social workers, and licensed psychologist), various cultures, and behavioral concerns. She prides herself in delivering cultural and trauma-informed support.

Her business Dr. Sarah Nicole Consulting LLC provides behavioral online consultation to parents with and without a diagnosis. Her online consultation provides an individualized person-centered approach. The support is based on the values and the goals of the client utilizing behavioral strategies derived from acceptance commitment therapy, behavior skills training, and principles of Behavior Analysis are utilized.

You’ll Learn

  • How Dr. Sarah fell into the field of ABA.
  • How Dr. Sarah uses her presence on TikTok to bring awareness to autism in the black community.
  • The importance of education and knowledge of ABA resources in the black community.
  • How more black representation in the field of ABA can help more families access the resources needed for their children.
  • Advice for families with children on the autism spectrum.

Resources

Free Workshop

Increase Talking &
Decrease Tantrums

in Young Children with

Autism &/or Speech Delays