Careers working with developmentally disabled?

Question

Can anyone recommend some good careers working with people with developmental delays, espeacially autism or spectrum disorders. I am really interested in the behavioral aspect of it but would be happy doing any job. I am really looking for something that only requires 2-4 years of college with the option to go back later on . Thanks.

Answer 1

As a Special Education teacher, (that takes a lot longer to become than just 2-4 years) I would like to tell you that Occupational Therapy is the field to get into. There is a HUGE shortage and you can work with any kind of disability and age range you want. I believe it takes 4 years but it's worth it. And, the money in the field is better than a teacher's salary.

Answer 2

My daughter is working on her degree in Recreational Therapy.  She also wants to work with the developmentally disabled.  It's a 4 year program

There are lots of jobs working with this population - although most of them don't pay very well.

Good Luck

Answer 3

you can get an undergrad special eductaion degree in about 4 years

you can also look into social services

To become certified in Applied Behavior Analysis (behavior therapy) you need a 4 year degree with additional ABA training-but it is preferred to have a Masters degree with the ABA traing in a BCBA (board certified behavior analyst) program

special education teacher

occupational therapist

speech language therpist

physical therapist

ada[tive technology specialist

job coach

recreation assistant

vocational rehab

social worker

learning disabilities teacher consultant

school pyschologist

early intervention/developmental intervention

school principal

school nurse

medical professional dealing with developmental disorders

teacher;s aid

social services (ARC) program assistant

habilitation aid (group home assistant/manager)

social skills trainer

specialized therapist (art, music, horseback riding)