Ruthie’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Ruthie is a Registered Behavior Technician Trainer at our East Moline center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since July of 2023. She is a mom to a seven-year-old boy and her favorite hobbies are writing poetry and painting. Ruthie also enjoys trying new things and meeting new people. She is a huge movie buff and her idea of a perfect evening is sitting on the couch watching a good movie and eating popcorn.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I made a choice years ago to work in different fields- never doing the same thing twice. I was determined to find my purpose. I worked jobs as complicated as the government and as simple as a warehouse. There was one job I could never get away from- children. Everywhere I went I found myself teaching or molding a child from different walks of life. I applied at Lighthouse not knowing what was in store. I saw the website and was sold almost immediately. I knew I could be a teacher but never knew about being a Registered Behavior Technician. I live to try things I’ve never tried, so I applied, and now my life is filled with so much more purpose. 

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part of working for Lighthouse is its solid foundation, which is very important for autism and the people working with individuals on the spectrum. Change is good, but too much change creates inconsistency. I love the energy as well. Everyone here is happy to be here and this is something I rarely saw throughout my many career choices.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My experience here at Lighthouse has reached new levels mentally for me. I usually go into the workforce and grasp everything at the beginning and when I have reached the ceiling of elevation, I quit and move on to another career. Here at Lighthouse, there is no limit. There are more opportunities and space to grow, if you are willing to work for it. I’m constantly challenged, creatively, mentally, and physically. I love the fact that I can be my authentic self and use my creativity to help each learner reach their goal.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memory from my time at Lighthouse happened within my first month of joining the team. When I was in training, I was so worried that I was not grasping all the terms and understanding how to run the programs. Every step of the way someone on the team was yelling “Go Ruthie” or “You got this” and it gave me the push and encouragement I needed to succeed. Now I can do the same for other trainees. 

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

While I do not have a college degree and I have never worked with children diagnosed with autism before Lighthouse, within 6 months I have advanced to an RBT Trainer through hard work and training from my fellow team members. Something that has not been easy as a single parent. If you are afraid because you believe you are not enough or you can’t help a child with autism, then you are the right person for the job because you have humility. All of this to say: “The sky is not the limit; it is only a point of reference.” —-Pastor Frank R. Livingston.

Gracie’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Gracie is a Registered Behavior Technician at our Daleville center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since June of 2023. She graduated from Ball State University with a bachelor’s degree in childhood education. Gracie has one dog and two cats and enjoys spending time with her family, traveling with her husband and working out.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

While student teaching, I realized that I enjoyed working one-on-one with children rather than teaching a full class. When I saw the position at LAC, I was very excited to learn more!

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part of working for Lighthouse is watching the progress that all the learners in the center have made since I have began working! Watching them grow and learn new things everyday is so great. I am so thankful for all the wonderful staff at LAC as well. They are all so supportive and caring.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My experience working at Lighthouse has been nothing short of amazing. It is such a rewarding job that I am thankful to be a part of.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

One of my favorite memories from my time at Lighthouse is when we had our fall festival. This was my first event at the center for all of the learners and their families. It was so great to be able to watch the families be able to enjoy a fun evening full of fall activities in a safe and welcoming environment! Not to mention seeing all of the children so happy to be there with their families! 

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Working at Lighthouse Autism Center is such a fun and rewarding job. There may be hard days here and there, but I believe it is best to stay positive and know that you are making the biggest difference in these children’s lives. 

Amanda’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Amanda is a Registered Behavior Therapist Training Coordinator at our Elkhart North center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since February of 2021. She graduated from Goshen College with a bachelor’s degree in physical education.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

After graduating during the middle of the school year, I couldn’t find the right fit anywhere. That is when I started looking into other jobs outside of what I went to school for. I had worked with students on the spectrum in gym class throughout college. However, I had no idea what ABA Therapy was or what it looked like. It was something new and I was still wanting to learn more. I knew I wanted to keep working with kids and being able to be 1 on 1 with the kiddos is what really caught my eye.

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

The environment! Everyone is welcoming, energetic, creative, and ready to teach little minds. The relationships! Not only the relationships and the rapport you build with the kiddos you are working with from day to day and their family, but the relationships you get to create with your co-workers. You work side by side with everyone all day and as we all may know, this job comes with some tough days. Having the people you work with know what you are experiencing allows for you to have someone to talk to and feel comfortable and supported. The Progress! This is number 1 in my book. You form a connection with your kiddos, learn them well, cheer them on and see them grow each day. A lot of this growth and progress we see is done by weaving in natural learning opportunities through play. Not a bad way to “work” in my eyes.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

Rewarding, supportive, emotional in the best way. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

While being at Lighthouse, my favorite memories are all the graduations I have been able to attend. Being with the kiddos from the first day to their last is an emotional ride, but I wouldn’t change any of it. The growth we see with the kids, and then to continue to remain in contact with families to see their success after Lighthouse will always be something I cherish. 

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Take the leap! Come in with an open mind and ready to learn! It is such a rewarding career!

Nicholas’ Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Nicholas is a Registered Behavior Therapist at our Winona Lake center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since July of 2023. He is currently a student at Ball State University, studying for a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis. Nicholas loves spending time with his family and his dog. He is happily married and has a daughter.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I applied to LAC because I was searching for a career that allowed me to serve people and focus on the patient more than on scheduling and travel.

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part of working at Lighthouse is the willingness of coworkers to help provide support as well as the guidance from trainers and supervisors towards the goals of making me a better therapist. 

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My experience with LAC has been what only could be deemed as concentrated. It has been concentrated with learning, growing, and help all with the focus of helping me reach our goals. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

One of my favorite memories comes from a learner that started the same time I started working at LAC. It felt like we had a connection based on our relative starting point of this part of our life’s adventure. We ended up working together quite often and paired quite well. One day during lunch, this learner decided they were not hungry and wanted to go play. We made our way back out to the playroom from the cafeteria, and I asked them what they wanted to do by presenting the manding board. The learner pointed to the play icon and said ‘swing’ with their soft voice and we proceeded to the swing. Once at the swing, the learner for the first time since we both started at LAC began singing to themselves while swinging. It was not for attention or for anyone around but simply because they enjoyed singing. I was reminded that day just how amazing we are as humans. This amazing little person decided at that moment to sing their own song and allow me the honor to hear it. LAC is a place you can help people learn to communicate. It helps people to learn how they can take action in their life and be heard.  

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Lighthouse is an amazing place to work. Be prepared to learn and also be open to instruction. Trainers and supervisor will inform you of what you need to do to be the best RBT. 

Laura’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Laura is a Lead Registered Behavior Therapist at our Goshen center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since December of 2022. Prior to her current role, she was a level 1 RBT, then a level 2 RBT, working her way up to a Lead Therapist though LAC’s Level-Up Program! She graduated from Trine University with a degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice. Laura is a dog mom who loves to knit, read, and garden.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I applied at Lighthouse because I have been interested in Autism Spectrum Disorders since I substitute taught in the Special Education department and loved every minute of it. I thought that Lighthouse would be a great place to get my feet wet so to speak.

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

I really love working with all the learners. They are all so unique in their own ways and figuring out how to turn their individual motivations into teachable moments is really rewarding for me.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

I really like working at an ABA center that focuses on the employees’ well-being. Mental health fields of work can be mentally draining for employees and Lighthouse really focuses on making sure we have help if we need it.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memory at Lighthouse was the time a learner’s face lit up at seeing me because they were excited to work with me. It’s just so great to see the joy we can add to the day.

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Just apply! You never know a job until you start and that’s the 1st step.

Carley’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Carley is a Clinical Apprentice at our Springfield center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since November of 2020. Prior to her current role, she was a Senior Therapist and RBT Trainer. She graduated from Kaskaskia Community College and Eastern Illinois University with a degree in Psychology. While Carley doesn’t have any kids herself, she likes to think of the learners at Lighthouse as a part of her family. She does have a cat named Milo, who is quite a handful himself. Some of Carley’s favorite hobbies include crocheting, reading, going on walks, and playing her switch (Animal Crossing is her favorite).  

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I originally applied to Lighthouse wanting to see what ABA consists of. I had never heard of it before but was thinking of doing something with play therapy and a friend suggest looking into ABA. Thank goodness I did! ABA and Lighthouse have been my forever home. 

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Lighthouse Autism Center has created new experiences for me. I’ve gained new friends who seem to be like family and of course, the biggest one, Lighthouse has encouraged me to go back to school to become a BCBA. I think my favorite part about working for Lighthouse is seeing the learners and how they learn something that you helped shape or teach. You get to physically see the change that you have made in their lives and how important you have become in their lives. Sometimes the learners stay for a few months and sometimes it’s a few years but either way I know I have been able to be a memory in their lives.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My experience here has been amazing, of course you have your off days, but this job is something I always look forward to. When I’m off, all I can think about is, “What is the next day going to bring for me?” or “What did those crazy, fun-loving, and big-hearted learners do while I was gone?” Every day is different and that’s what keeps me going. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

Goodness there are just so many, I guess one of my favorite memories here at Springfield Lighthouse is having one of our learners come into the center not wanting to sit at tables and flopping on the floor every time that she didn’t have access to her favorite toys. She has now recently been able to walk to different rooms, wait for her teacher, vocalize what she is wanting in two-word phrases, and is playing with new peers constantly. I tell you what, I am oh so very proud of her. Also, who can forget those crazy times at the South Bend Cubs games that happen every year (Shout out to the Granger Family).  

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My biggest advice would be to treat every day like a new bright day! Yes, you are going to have some hard ones, come into some hard decisions, and sometimes the wrong one is made but learn from those! Know that whatever happened was just ‘at the moment’ so that you can move on and be the best you can be. Be open to your supporters and just remember, “You’ve got this! Keep Moving Forward”

Alena’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Alena is a Clinical Apprentice at our Niles center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since August of 2021. Prior to her current role, she was an Assistant/RBT Trainer. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor’s in biopsychology, cognition and neuroscience with a focus in pre-med. She has a sweet and energetic golden-doodle named Gretchen that she loves to spend time with. Alena also loves reading, going to K-POP concerts and playing the piano in her free time. 

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I applied to Lighthouse because I was taking a gap year before applying to medical school and I thought learning more about the autism spectrum would help me understand and expand my knowledge so I could better help future patients. I ended up falling in love with ABA and autism during my time as a therapist and decided to change my career path to stay in the field of ABA. 

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part of working for Lighthouse is the opportunity to be creative and individualize services for each learner. I love that the goal is to enable growth specialized to each learner while finding the fun in every day. I love being able to continuously learn new things while building bonds with co-workers and learners. 

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

I would describe my experience working with Lighthouse as optimistic, enlightening and rewarding. There have been challenging times but they have all been learning opportunities that have helped me grow in both my professional and personal goals. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

One of my favorite memories is graduating the first learner I worked with. Many people were concerned with this client not being ready for school by the date they were graduating but once they started transitioning to school, they did so well that we graduated them a month early! It was bittersweet but so comforting and rewarding to know that they were ready even sooner than we anticipated. It was also a good reminder that it’s good to stay optimistic and expect the best from all our learners, no matter the circumstance. 

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

If anybody is interested in a career at Lighthouse I would make sure that they know that it can be difficult and challenging but if their heart is in the work and they are wanting to change lives, it is definitely worth it. 

Sydney’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Sydney is the Executive Administrative Assistant and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since January of 2022. She graduated from Valparaiso University in 2018 with a Bachelor’s in English. She also minored in Spanish and music performance. Her favorite things to do outside of work are to read, cycle, play the flute, cheer on the Chicago White Sox, and spend time with her dog, Luna.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

It has always been very important to me to be a part of an organization that has a strong tie to the community and that strives to provide resources to the underserved. When I came across an administrative position with Lighthouse, I jumped at the opportunity. I had a strong feeling that I could be a good fit for the organization and Lighthouse could be a great fit for me!

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part about working at Lighthouse is that every day is different! My position requires me to wear a lot of different hats, and this allows me to learn something new every day. Even though I do not work on the clinical side of the organization, I still get to learn about the clinical operations and familiarize myself with how the organization serves our learners. I love that I get to broaden my skills with different projects and research opportunities. I also appreciate getting to work with the Executive Team as they all push me to become a versatile assistant.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

I would describe my experience working for Lighthouse as fast-paced, challenging, and rewarding. I’ve experienced great collaboration between departments and can always find someone willing to help me succeed or point me in the right direction.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memory so far was getting to shadow a therapist during my first week. It was meaningful to get to see firsthand the services that I would support in my role on the learner support side of the organization, and the learners were so sweet. The bright, playful spaces of our centers are always uplifting to see and experience. I’ve also really enjoyed visiting some of the newly opened centers.

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

If any position with LAC interests you, go for it! So many people on our team are willing to support you and help you succeed in a role at Lighthouse. There are also so many opportunities for growth and advancement. If you’re looking for a rewarding career that will challenge you and allow you to serve your community, Lighthouse is the perfect place for you. 

Meet Lighthouse Autism Center’s Staff Spotlight of the Month: Kiah

Kiah is a Registered Behavior Technician Trainer at our Columbus Center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since December of 2021. She graduated from Purdue University Columbus with a Bachelors degree in Psychology. Kiah enjoys yoga, hiking, and spending time with her dog, Charlie.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I had previously worked as a RBT and was not actively in the ABA field when I applied to Lighthouse. I missed the field and felt drawn back to ABA, so I applied to Lighthouse and I am glad I came back to ABA.

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

I like the focus on naturalist teaching and the Fusion® model of incorporating speech therapy into ABA, but the kids are my favorite part about working at Lighthouse. From seeing their growth to running around playing with them and bringing my inner child alive, they are the best part. Working for Lighthouse is a very different experience than the typical 9 to 5. It is playful, fast paced, challenging, and rewarding.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memories are from Fun Friday activities. I love seeing the kids be kids and express their excitement in so many different ways.  

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Some days will be tricky. The tricky days are left at the center, the feelings don’t follow us home and it’s not personal. Stick around to see the progress the kids make and it will be worth it. 

Meet Lighthouse Autism Center’s Staff Spotlight of the Month: Katie

Katie is a Registered Behavior Technician Trainer at our Kalamazoo East Center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since April of 2022. She graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelors degree in Human Biology. Katie enjoys Yoga, hiking, making jewelry, reading, and spending time with her five nephews and two nieces who keep her on her toes.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I wanted to make a positive impact on my community. I was already working in the world of ABA in Grand Rapids. I was looking for an opportunity to grow, and Lighthouse was/is the most perfect fit. 

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center is my co-workers, the positive work environment, but most importantly THE KIDS!! My experience at Lighthouse has been nothing but great. I have felt supported, encouraged, and given ample feedback in order to grow into the RBT Trainer I have become. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

There are so many!! My all time favorite though would be running music groups and watching all of the kiddos have a great time and dance their hearts out.

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Working with kiddos is not always easy, they have big emotions just like we do, and it may be difficult to communicate how they are feeling. Approach every situation with patience and compassion. Some days will be tough, however, the most rewarding part is witnessing hard work pay off when a kiddo is able to independently finish a 5 piece puzzle, or independently request an item using a full sentence, or independently play a board game from start to finish with a peer. Those wins make all of the long days worth it.

Meet Lighthouse Autism Center’s Staff Spotlight of the Month: Natalia

Natalia is a Registered Behavior Technician at our Castleton Center and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since July of 2022. She graduated from Butler University with a Bachelors in Organizational Communication and Leadership. Natalia loves dancing and originally came to Indiana from Florida on a dance scholarship at Butler University!

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I applied at Lighthouse Autism Center because I love working with kids and seeing them grow! It’s been so exciting seeing them accomplish different tasks.  

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part about working at Lighthouse is meeting the different kids and learning all about them. I have enjoyed every second working with the Lighthouse staff, BCBAs and the Senior Therapists who have all made it so special. They are always there for you when you have questions. Each day I’m excited to go into work and see what my learner and I accomplish.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memory is working with Senior Therapists Farris and Katie when I first started training. They made me feel so welcomed and taught me everything I know today. I am so thankful for them.

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

I would advise any future workers for Lighthouse to always ask questions! There is so much to learn and the staff here is always there to help you!