Graduation Year

2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Degree Name

Doctor in Psychology (Psy. D.)

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability characterized by persistent challenges in social communication and interaction, and restrictive and repetitive patterns of behavior. These challenges manifest heterogeneously, resulting in a wide range of presentations and levels of support needs for individuals with the disorder. Behavioral intervention is an empirically supported treatment designed to support early skill development for people on the spectrum. Many Kentucky caregivers rely on two Medicaid waivers, the Supports for Community Living and Michelle P Waiver for these supports. However, there are currently over 14000 people on the waitlists for these waivers. The creation and implementation of Kentucky’s HCBS waivers targeting people on the spectrum is discussed. After a review of Kentucky’s support landscape is narrowed to behavioral intervention, caregiver mediated behavioral supports’ viability as an intervention model is explored. This project first reviews literature related to service barriers in Kentucky, the HCBS waivers in the state, and then the efficacy of caregiver mediated behavior supports for families. Combined with information provided by parents in a brief qualitative survey, a training framework was developed.

Faculty Mentor

Myra Bundy, Ph.D., BCBA

Department Affiliation

Psychology

Committee Member

Jerry Palmer, Ph.D.

Department Affiliation

Psychology

Committee Member

Mary Freeman, Psy.D.

Department Affiliation

Psychology

IRB Approval Number (if applicable)

4837

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Psychology Commons

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