2010 Alumnus Empowers Patients Through Care

As a board-certified behavior analyst, Class of 2010 alumnus Eric Warren Jr. enjoys helping people help themselves as he establishes planned behavior strategies for them and other impactful client-care services.

 

Eric works at Ben’s Behavioral Health in Middlefield, Conn., with a caseload of six to eight clients. Diagnosed with Autism and other developmental disabilities, Eric’s clients range in age from 9 to 16 years old.

 

“The most rewarding part of being a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is helping the families of clients make progress and develop essential skills, as well as making a positive impact in the community,” said Eric. “One of the most fulfilling moments for me is seeing my clients' faces light up when they learn a new skill. I get to take part in something life-changing and make a positive impact.”

 

In his role, Eric conducts functional behavior assessments to understand the underlying causes of challenging behaviors and develop effective intervention strategies. Additionally, he conducts functional skills assessments to evaluate each client's abilities and develop appropriate behavior intervention plans.

 

Eric graduated from Western Connecticut State University in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and anthropology. Following graduation, Eric began working as a substitute teacher and was assigned to a special education classroom that utilized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles. It was there that he discovered his passion for ABA and knew it was his true calling. He went on to attend Arizona State University and graduated in 2021 with his Master’s in Education with specialization in Special Education - Applied Behavior Analysis to become a board-certified behavior analyst.

 

Eric also provides training to parents and staff to ensure consistency and effectiveness when implementing behavior intervention strategies.  To best serve clients or work in the field of behavioral analysis, Eric emphasized the importance of being patient, flexible, caring, and developing a cultural awareness necessary to understand patients’ individual values as each patient is different. This aids in creating a supportive and structured environment for the clients, which enables them to learn and grow in the best possible way. 

 

According to Eric, Hamden Hall was instrumental in helping him prepare for his career. He said that he was taught the importance of self-confidence and developing a strong work ethic - both of which are essential qualities for success in any field and in your personal life as well. 

 

Eric noted that some of his favorite memories from his days under the pines  include semi-formals, prom, and developing lifelong friendships. His most notable memory, however, was suiting up in his green and white jersey for the Boys’ Varsity Basketball game against Hopkins his junior year. After the win, all the students in attendance rushed the court and created an unforgettable memory.