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The Upper Peninsula Association for Behavior Analysis, 1401 Presque Isle Avenue, Department of Psychological Science c/o Dr. Jacob Daar, Marquette, MI (2026)

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1401 Presque Isle Avenue, Department Of Psychological Science C/o Dr. Jacob Daar

10/01/2026

Look who is joining us for UPABA 2026! Register at UPABA.org

Dr. Jordan Belisle, of Dynamic Behavior Science and Entiva Behavioral Health, will be presenting on "Language and Adaptive Behavior Metatechnology: Pivots, Cusps, and Developmental Sequencing"

Relational Density Theory (RDT) offers a dynamic framework for understanding how language, cognition, and adaptive behavior emerge, organize, and accelerate across development. This presentation introduces the Language and Adaptive Behavior Metatechnology (LAB-MT), an integrated assessment and treatment-planning system that combines principles from relational learning, verbal behavior, developmental science, attachment theory, and behavioral systems approaches into a coherent developmental model. The talk will examine the relationship between pivotal behaviors—including attentional processing, memory and recall, and executive functioning—and behavioral cusps across communication, social cognition, and emotion regulation. Particular emphasis will be placed on developmental sequencing and the idea that learning is not simply linear skill accumulation, but a recursive and self-organizing process in which early foundational repertoires transform into increasingly complex and flexible patterns of behavior over time. Clinical and pilot data from the LAB-MT will be presented, including multidimensional scaling, diffusion mapping, and network analyses demonstrating coherent developmental structure, layered progression across developmental stages, and the emergence of highly influential “pivot” skills that appear to facilitate broader developmental growth. Rather than viewing derived relational responding as isolated relational performances, this framework conceptualizes derived skill acquisition as part of a broader system of relational organization that can generate accelerative, generalized, and durable learning outcomes. Implications for assessment, curriculum design, and dynamic intervention planning for autistic and neurodivergent learners will be discussed.

Dr. Jordan Belisle, BCBA-D, LBA-MI is a behavior scientist, clinical leader, and entrepreneur whose work focuses on language, cognition, learning, and the application of behavioral science to complex human behavior. He serves as Clinical Director at Entiva Behavioral Health, is Co-Founder of Dynamic Behavior Science, and has held academic appointments at Missouri State University, The Chicago School, and Ball State University. Dr. Belisle has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed publications spanning applied behavior analysis, relational frame theory, acceptance and commitment therapy, autism intervention, and behavioral systems. His research has been cited more than 2,000 times, with an h-index exceeding 20, reflecting sustained influence in both basic and applied behavioral science. His work includes co-developing Relational Density Theory, advancing research on complex language and cognition, and expanding the empirical foundations of the PEAK Relational Training System. He has also applied behavioral science across education, healthcare, organizational performance, consumer behavior, and climate-related decision making. An invited speaker, consultant, and educator, Dr. Belisle is known for translating behavioral science into practical strategies that improve clinical practice, organizational systems, and human performance. His presentations combine scientific rigor with real-world application, equipping audiences with actionable tools for meaningful behavior change.

09/30/2026

Want to learn about the new ABA CPT codes? Join us at UPABA 2026! Register at UPABA.org

UPABA welcomes Dr. Mary Luchies from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services as she presents on "Applied Behavior Analysis Billing Code Updates and Medicaid Requirements"

Behavioral Health Treatment, including autism services have gone through many changes since the implementation of the insurance mandate in 2012. CPT Billing Codes for ABA were developed in 2019 by the American Medical Association. Six additional codes have been approved by the AMA to be effective January 2027. This session will provide an update on these codes, current Medicaid BHT requirements as well as proposed changes to providing services for individuals diagnosed with autism. Presenters will review terminology associated with autism, update state data on autism services, and provide Medicaid policy updates.

Dr. Mary Luchies has a PhD in Psychology and is a licensed psychologist and behavior analyst. She has extensive experience diagnosing and treating mental health disorders as well as developing and reviewing behavior treatment plans within the public and private sectors. Mary worked as a behavioral psychologist at CMH, providing training, assessment, and court ordered psychological evaluations for individuals with developmental disabilities. Mary was Dean of Education and Human Service/Director of Early Childhood Education at Baker College and is a skilled trainer and lecturer. Mary previously worked in MDHHS in the Behavior Health and Developmental Disabilities Administration, and State Hospital Administration and is currently the section manager of the IDD and ASD Services program at MDHHS in the Bureau of Children’s Coordinated Health Policy and Supports

09/29/2026

Look who is presenting at UPABA! Dr. Matthew T. Brodhead of Michigan State University!

Register at UPABA.ORG

Presentation: Restraint and Seclusion in Public Schools: History, Ethical Issues, Risks, and How to Protect Children from Adult-Inflicted Harm

The use of restraint and seclusion in public education settings in the United States dates to at least the 1960s. However, its use likely dates back at least 200 years. As advocacy and policy changes in the 1970s rightfully inspired the deinstitutionalization and integration of students who historically attended state-run psychiatric hospitals into public education, tactics historically used in those psychiatric settings unfortunately followed them into the schools. Despite the longstanding and documented history and harms of restraint and seclusion, 27 US States and Territories have no statutes or regulations on restraint and seclusion in public schools. Though restraint and seclusion continue to be challenged in the legal system (with violations filed under the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments, as well as violations of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504, and the Americans with Disabilities Act), federal regulation has yet to be enacted, and America’s children continue to suffer injury and death as a result. The purpose of this presentation is to explore the ethical issues surrounding restraint and seclusion as well as the risks and harms of its use. Finally, the presentation presents a framework for policy makers and educators (broadly defined) to follow to reduce the use of these brutal tactics and most importantly, protect America’s children from adult-inflicted harm.

Matthew T. Brodhead is an Associate Professor at Michigan State University. Dr. Brodhead is recognized as one of the foremost experts in the areas of ethics and professionalism in the practice of applied behavior analysis. He also specializes in restraint and seclusion in public schools, along with choice and social skill development of children with autism. Dr. Brodhead serves as an associate editor for the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, the leading journal of his academic discipline. Dr. Brodhead has received numerous awards, including the Outstanding Mentor Award (2024) from the Association for Behavior Analysis International in recognition of his excellence in advising and mentorship, and the Association of Professional Behavior Analysts’ Excellence in Ethical Practice Award (2026), in recognition of his contributions to ethical practice in the field of applied behavior analysis.

09/28/2026

UPABA is just around the corner! Join us for workshops, presentations, and more! Register at UPABA.org.

Check out this workshop presented by Dr. Jordan Belisle and Katelyn Frahm of Entiva Behavioral Health!

Contemporary ABA service delivery often relies on collections of isolated procedures implemented within linear models of behavior change. In contrast, this workshop introduces a dynamic systems framework for organizing ABA services into coherent, flexible, and sustainable clinical systems that support both learner outcomes and clinician effectiveness. Drawing from behavior momentum theory, relational density theory, and contemporary models of psychological flexibility and play-based learning, participants will explore how effective sessions emerge from the coordinated interaction of reinforcement, pacing, emotional regulation, engagement, instructional density, and clinician responsiveness across time. The workshop will introduce Dynamic Treatment Breakdowns as a systems-level approach to integrating universal clinical practices, client-specific programming, enrichment activities, and adaptive session flow into a single coherent treatment structure. Particular emphasis will be placed on the STEPS and WAVES session progression models, which conceptualize clinical sessions as evolving patterns of interaction designed to build behavioral momentum while maintaining happy, relaxed, and engaged learning contexts. Participants will learn how to use structured and flexible session progressions to shape persistence, increase learning opportunities, improve assent-based practice, and reduce rigid or mechanical treatment delivery. Through case examples, guided activities, and applied planning exercises, attendees will develop actionable strategies for designing Dynamic Treatment Breakdowns and implementing STEPS and WAVES progressions within real clinical environments. The workshop is designed for behavior analysts and supervisors seeking practical systems-level tools to cultivate more adaptive, responsive, and integrated ABA services.

09/27/2026

UPABA 2026 is pleased to welcome Dr. Mark O'Reilly of the University of Texas, Austin! Register now at UPABA.org

Dr. O'Reilly will be presenting on "Assistive Technology to Support Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Families of Children with Autism."

This presentation examines how assistive technology (AT) and culturally responsive practices can improve services and outcomes for culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As the prevalence of ASD continues to rise and demographic diversity increases across the United States, many families encounter substantial barriers when accessing educational, behavioral, and healthcare services. These barriers include limited English proficiency, lack of translated materials, insufficient cultural responsiveness among providers, and difficulties navigating complex service systems. Research reviewed in this presentation highlights how these challenges disproportionately affect Latina/x and immigrant families and may reduce access to evidence-based interventions. The presentation synthesizes findings from multiple studies examining the role of language, culture, and communication in autism intervention. Evidence demonstrates that children with ASD often show improved engagement, play, and reduced challenging behavior when instruction is delivered in their heritage language rather than exclusively in English. Additional research shows that culturally tailored parent education programs and community-based support models, such as promotora-led interventions, can improve parent confidence, advocacy skills, and child social communication outcomes. A major focus of the presentation is the use of assistive technology to bridge linguistic and service gaps. Video prompting, visual supports, translated instructional materials, telehealth, and distance-based training models are discussed as effective strategies for empowering families and reducing dependence on scarce bilingual professionals. The presentation concludes by emphasizing the importance of culturally sensitive service delivery, improved provider training, recruitment of diverse professionals, and the integration of assistive technologies to ensure equitable and accessible autism services for CLD families.

Mark O'Reilly, Ph.D, BCBA-D is holder of the Melissa Elizabeth Stuart Centennial Professorship in Education and Professor of Special Education. He coordinates the graduate training programs in Autism and Developmental Disabilities. His teaching and research focuses on the application of evidence-based practices to support persons with developmental disabilities, their families, teachers, and friends within inclusive life contexts. He has a particular interest in functional assessment and supports for children with severe challenging behavior and interventions to promote acquisition, generalization, and maintenance of adaptive skills.

09/25/2026

UPABA 2026 is less than 3 weeks away! Come join us for the incredible line up of speakers, workshops, posters, and social events. Not to mention, the gorgeous Upper Peninsula of Michigan during fall colors! Register now at UPABA.org to reserve your seat.

09/25/2026

We know you have choices, but we know you will choose this one. Join UPABA 2026 in welcoming Dr. Stephanie M. Peterson of Western Michigan University!

We are the Sum of Our Choices: Choice Procedures in Behavior Analysis

There is a saying that "we are the sum of our choices," which means our circumstances and identities are the cumulative result of many choices we have made and the consequences experienced for those choices over time. Choices are also closely linked to broader concepts like autonomy and selfdetermination. This presentation will explore the concept of choice and choice procedures in behavior analysis, focusing on basic concepts and how they translate to applied procedures. I will provide a historical overview of the advancement of choice concepts over time, summarizing the technologies that have emerged from the extant research, as well as the questions that still need to be addressed if we hope to promote autonomy and self-determination for all individuals, including those with developmental disabilities.

Stephanie M. Peterson, Ph.D. (University of Iowa, 1994) is a professor of psychology, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and executive director of the Kalamazoo Autism Center at Western Michigan University. She previously served as chair of the Department of Psychology for eight years. Her research interests include decreasing chronic severe behavior problems in children with developmental disabilities, using interventions based on choice making (concurrent schedules of reinforcement) and functional communication training. She also studies the effective use of teleconsultation strategies to delivering behavior analytic services and applications of behavior analysis to educational interventions and behavior analyst training. She has served on a variety of editorial boards, including the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis and Behavior Analysis in Practice. She recently rotated off as the editor in chief of Behavior Analysis in Practice. She currently serves on the publications board for the Association for Behavior Analysis International, which oversees the seven journals operated by the association. She served two three-year terms on the board of directors for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. For nearly 10 years, she has served and continues to serve as a subject matter expert for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.

The Upper Peninsula Association for Behavior Analysis

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