HD 424 - Introduction to Therapeutic Companions/Behvior Interventions

This class provides an overview of the working definition of the therapeutic companion, the types of childhood difficulties that may benefit from therapeutic support and professional competencies required. Students will explore the history and purposes of the field. Additionally, students will begin to develop an understanding of 

• The environments and employment settings in which Therapeutic Companions could work (preschools, schools, clinics, agencies, etc.)
• Functional behavioral principles and analysis
• How to translate behavioral approach and language into child relationship base and implement recommendations of analysis
• How to facilitate social interactions for the child/client and peers
• Issues around advocacy for children in an IEP