As a BCBA and passionate advocate for families, I want to share something that I’ve seen make a huge difference in a child’s life: interdisciplinary care.
When your child has multiple needs—communication, sensory, behavioral, social, medical—it’s completely natural to have different professionals involved. But too often, these amazing providers are working in separate lanes, without talking to each other.
That’s where true interdisciplinary care comes in—and it can change everything.
What Is Interdisciplinary Care?
At its heart, interdisciplinary care means that your child’s team is working with each other, not just alongside each other. That includes:
- BCBAs (like me)
- Speech and language pathologists
- Occupational therapists
- Teachers
- Pediatricians
- Mental health providers
- And you, the parent—always at the center
Instead of everyone working in isolation, we come together to build consistent, thoughtful plans that support your child’s growth across all environments.
Why This Matters So Much
💛 It supports the whole child.
Your child is more than a diagnosis. They are growing, learning, feeling, and communicating in their own unique way. When professionals work together, we can better understand and support every part of who your child is.
💛 It brings consistency to their world.
Have you ever received advice from one provider, only to hear something totally different from another? That can feel overwhelming—for you and your child. Interdisciplinary care helps create shared goals, common language, and aligned strategies across settings.
💛 It values your voice.
As a parent, you are the expert on your child. In a strong interdisciplinary team, your insights and concerns matter deeply. Your observations at home can help shape goals, and your input can guide how strategies are carried out across different places.
💛 It reduces stress—for everyone.
When we collaborate, we reduce mixed messages and avoid repeating efforts. That means less frustration, fewer behavioral escalations, and more space for real, meaningful progress.
What You Can Do as a Parent
You don’t have to take on the role of “team coordinator” all by yourself, but here are a few gentle ways to support interdisciplinary care:
- 📝 Ask providers if they can connect. You might say, “Would you be open to chatting with my child’s OT or teacher to align some of our goals?”
- 💬 Share what you’re seeing at home. That daily insight is gold. It helps providers shape plans that really work for your child’s life—not just in the clinic or classroom.
- 📂 Bring documents to sessions. IEPs, therapy notes, and behavior plans can all help us get on the same page.
- 📅 Suggest a joint meeting. Even a 15-minute call or email exchange can go a long way in unifying your child’s support team.
A Message From Me to You
I know how heavy the responsibility of care can feel sometimes. As a parent, you’re constantly making decisions, advocating, and hoping that the people around your child truly see them.
Interdisciplinary care is one powerful way to make sure your child is supported with the compassion, collaboration, and consistency they deserve.
And you’re not alone in making it happen. I’m here to help.Want support building a care team that works together?
I offer parent consulting sessions to help you feel confident navigating therapy services, school supports, and behavior goals. Together, we can create a plan that centers your child—and your voice.
👉 [Book a consultation here]