Leaps Ahead Program Internship
The Leaps Ahead Program is an in-clinic Applied Behavior Analysis service provided at the Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders that offers a controlled environment to assist children between the ages of 5-10 with:
- Participating in group activities
- Building social skills
- Managing challenging social situations
- Working as part of an interdisciplinary team
- Directing language towards peers
This internship will provide training and experience with the implementation of behavioral interventions for young children with autism based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. Specifically, students will gain experience with implementing individual and group interventions, behavioral assessments, data collection, and progress monitoring. Responsibilities of internship students include:
- Attending & participating in all client sessions
- Serving as a session leader for 2 sessions throughout the semester (preparing materials, running group activities, etc.)
- Working 1-on-1 with clients
- Collecting data
- Must be available Monday and Wednesday 2:30pm-5:00pm
This internship requires a vetting process be complete prior to the start of your internship. We require that you start the process 4-6 weeks ahead of the start date.
The vetting process includes:
- Paperwork
- Immunizations
- Drug Screening
- TB Test
How do sign up for the internship?
- Interested students must complete an application, interview & receive approval from Ali Cooper
- Course credit options: BHS in Health Sciences Internship course 4975
- Overall, interns should expect to be putting in about 5 hours of work per week.
Ideal emphasis: Rehabilitation Sciences or Health and Wellness Services
Reliability and punctuality are vital! Enthusiasm and comfortable around children. Good communication skills with supervisors, peers, clients, and clients' families. Experience with individuals with ASD and Applied Behavior Analysis preferred but not required.
Please note: MU School of Health Professions students using to fulfill HP4975 internship must also meet the following requirements: 1. Must have junior or senior standing in the School of Health Professions. 2. Completed HP2100 by start of internship. 3. Has attended all mandatory meetings regarding the internship (fieldwork) requirement. 4. A minimum of 50 clock hours required.
Who do I contact for more information or to apply?
- Please submit cover letter and resume to Ali Cooper at cooperali@health.missouri.edu