“Giving Families a Sense of Hope” BreAnna Newborne about The Growing Tree

The Growing Tree is a local clinic that is committed to helping children with Autism reach their fullest potential in life. Their goal is helping children and young adults become self-sufficient and productive in their environments, while growing in their independence.

Parents & Kids got a chance to talk to BreAnna Newborne, the newly appointed clinical director of The Growing Tree, to hear firsthand about the exciting work the company is doing in Mississippi.

Parents & Kids: When you primarily worked face-to-face with families of children with special needs as a board-certified behavior analyst what was the most rewarding part of your job?

BreAnna Newborne: I love giving families a sense of hope. No family plans on having a child with a disability, and when it does happen, sometimes their world comes crashing down. It’s an amazing feeling to be their light and hope, as well as their cheerleader throughout their process, to hear parents say, “My child can actually learn,” “Because of you, my child has a voice,” or “I can take my child to a restaurant now!” The process isn’t easy, but when the parents put that trust in my ability and skills – that’s truly rewarding, and all the hard work is worth it.”

P&K: How did you know therapy was your calling?

BN: During my senior year of undergrad, I became a member of the psychology club board – through that position I learned more about School Psychology, specifically kids with disabilities. In 2013, I attained a job as a behavior technician working in-home with kids and young adults with Tourette, Down Syndrome, and Autism while also volunteering as a research assistant, which lead me to my purpose and helped me make the decision to further my education and pursue a master’s degree in ABA [applied behavior analysis] and – 10 years later I’m still here.

P&K: Tell us more about The Growing Tree and your new role here.

BN: What intrigued me about The Growing Tree initially was their vision and mission on expanding ABA for the state! One of the goals was providing services to the families that lived in the unserved areas of Mississippi. That, ultimately, became the key factor in my decision to join The Growing Tree. In the two short years I have grown into a leadership position.

P&K: How did your new role change your daily workload?

BN: Rather than focusing only on my cases, I now conduct case supervisions to help support other Board-Certified Behavior Analysts. I also help with training initiatives for our current behavior technicians and upcoming technicians to support our growing company. I love helping others get excited about the behavior change process, so I am able to have conversations with more stakeholders and educators about our services and how we can be a support to the community.

P&K: What are you hoping to accomplish in the future – for The Growing Tree, your community, and your state?

BN: I am hoping to help aid and educate others across Mississippi, and hopefully the world, about how quality ABA services can be feasible to their everyday lives and practices. The statement “It takes a village” is one that holds true. I have always believed it takes a team to accomplish great outcomes, so I am willing to do the work for the advancement of our field and state.

P&K: It seems like you really think big! Do you feel like your daily work makes an impact on the world?

BN: I do believe my work really makes a difference in the world. When ABA therapy improves the quality of life for one family, that family then becomes a model for others, perhaps for someone who doesn’t believe in therapy and treatment. It may be a friend who has a child with special needs but doesn’t think anything can be done. Seeing another child’s progression they may say, “OK, let’s give this a try.” Lastly, as a leader, I aspire to inspire others to pursue this field as a career path which ultimately helps grow more Behavior Analysts to help disseminate and grow services.

P&K: What would you say to families who are just starting their therapy journey?

BN: Give yourself grace and try not to compare your beautiful child to anyone else because they are their own individual. Prioritize self-care and take this journey one day at a time.

There are two clinics located in Jackson, MS and Meridian, MS. The Growing Tree also provides home and community-based services throughout the entire state of Mississippi. There is no waitlist and most commercial insurance plans are accepted. If you are interested in services or would like more information, you can call 601-812-8368 or visit www.growingtreeaba.com.