Meet Adam McElyea, BCBA

Early Learning Program Manager

Adam is a BCBA Professional with a Master’s degree in Special Education focusing on Applied Behavior Analysis and four years of experience working with children and teenagers with autism spectrum disorder. 

Adam was a Lead Behavior Technician with Community Mental Health for Central Michigan and Central Michigan Care before joining PARClife. His focus as a Lead Behavior Technician was implementing direct 1 to 1 therapy with clients, while training and assisting other Behavior Technicians. Adam is now a Program Manager for PARClife Early Learning.

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"My approach to ABA therapy focuses on making learning enjoyable while fostering independence in the least restrictive way possible. I emphasize natural environment teaching, incorporating play-based interactions to build skills away from the table. However, I also recognize the value of structured learning and use table work when beneficial. While learning new skills can sometimes be frustrating, I encourage learners to see mistakes as part of the process and ensure they feel supported. I prioritize mastering prerequisite skills to independence before introducing more complex "milestone" skills, helping to prevent frustration and reduce any aversion to learning. One of the areas I am most passionate about in the field of ABA is verbal behavior, which includes both vocal and nonverbal communication, such as motor imitation, listener responding, and visual perception skills. I also strongly emphasize functional communication, ensuring learners can express their wants and needs independently and appropriately. Through this balanced approach, I create a positive and engaging environment where learners can develop confidence, independence, and meaningful communication skills."