Dear Behavioral Analyst, ABA Can Work for FASD Too

Live Interactive Online Training offered on Zoom

Date:  Tuesday, October 27, 2026
Time:  1:00 – 2:30 pm EST ( 12:00-1:30pm CT, 11-12:30pm MT, 10-11:30am PST)
Cost: $10 (no CEs), $25 with BCBA/BCaBA CEU, $25 with LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, and CMSW

Training Description:

Even a well-written behavior plan can fail when the intervention model mismatches the client’s neurology. Standard ABA protocols, largely calibrated around autistic learning profiles, run into significant friction when applied to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). This training identifies where those breakdowns occur, giving BCBAs and BCaBAs clear adaptations so the protocol fits the client. With prevalence estimates at 1 in 20, most clinicians are already serving clients with FASD, even if listed under a different primary diagnosis. ABA can be highly effective for FASD, but it requires a shifted clinical lens. This course provides practical modifications to make core ABA strategies brain-based, ensuring therapy works with the FASD brain instead of against it.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify where traditional ABA procedures fail clients with FASD, and reframe these breakdowns through a brain-based lens.
• Tailor a standard ABA behavior support plan for a client with FASD.
• Audit a case study and reconstruct the intervention plan to align with the client’s FASD profile.
• Facilitate a true caregiver collaboration model to translate clinical FASD adaptations into realistic, home-based support strategies.

Presenters:

Sydney Finkenbine, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA, COBA

Sydney is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), former foster parent to teens, many of whom were impacted by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), and the co-founder of ALL Integrated YOU, a program committed to accessible, lifelong and local support. She also serves as the Behavioral Health Director at CAMP – A FASD Community, where she leads a dedicated team to create supportive, enriching experiences that help youth have the best week of their lives. Sydney is deeply committed to trauma-informed care, family collaboration, and elevating the voices of those with lived experience.

Originally from Chicago and now a proud Michigander, Sydney loves spending time with her wife, son, and their two pups. Together, they enjoy exploring local cuisine, discovering new walking trails, and learning new board games.

Emma Thomas, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA

Emma is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (BCBA-D) and co-founder of ALL Integrated YOU. With over 18 years of experience, she has worked with individuals with disabilities in a wide range of settings. Emma is dedicated to achieving meaningful, person-centered outcomes and is passionate about using evidence-based practices to enhance quality of life and foster independence for the individuals and families she supports.

Originally born in Finland, Emma now lives in Michigan with her husband, their baby daughter, and their dog. In her free time, she enjoys discovering new restaurants, spending time with family, and traveling.