Lauren Palmateer, MS, BCBA, LABA, the Program Specialist for the Intensive Instruction Team (ITT) Apartment 2, has worked at The New England Center for Children (NECC) since 2018. She was nominated for Staff Spotlight by a colleague, “because she instills confidence in our team, inspiring us to love our work and to show that we are the best and capable of doing this important work — and we love her for it.” 

How long have you worked for NECC? 

I’ve worked at NECC as a full-time staff member since 2018, but I was also an intern on Ursla for a semester in 2016 when I was in my undergrad! 

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is not only seeing students succeed but also seeing my coworkers on ITT2 grow their confidence in skills like leadership, clinical programming, and problem solving. 

Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?

I originally thought I wanted to go into the medical field, but when I learned more about ABA and the clear positive impact it has on the population we work with, I decided to pursue this field. 

Why NECC?

I was introduced to NECC through classes at Western New England University (WNEU), so the transition into the WNEU/NECC graduate programs made sense! I did an internship at NECC and really liked how the program was organized, and I saw opportunities for professional growth at NECC. 

Have you taken advantage of any of the grad programs or teacher training at NECC? If so, how has it affected your teaching style?

Yes! I received my master’s in ABA through WNE and am currently a PhD student in the WNE program. 

Who is someone you look up to?

I look up to Ilona Maher and Kylie Kelce. They are strong women who are unapologetically themselves. I think it’s important us ladies have other women setting that example! 

What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?

My biggest fear is being near large floating objects while swimming in open water! 

What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?

You can learn something new in every room you walk into, and being able to change your perspective when you learn new information is a skill that is important to grow over time. 

Listen to Lauren share a little bit about herself here.