Mariposa Autism Service Center

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Growing Expertise: SBT Levels at Mariposa Autism Service Center

At Mariposa Autism Service Center (MASC), every child’s progress begins with a knowledgeable, compassionate therapist. That’s why our team participates in a specialized professional development model known as SBT Levels, a framework that supports clinicians as they grow their skills in Skills-Based Treatment (SBT) for autism.

SBT Levels represent more than training milestones, they reflect our ongoing commitment to excellence, collaboration, and compassionate care for families across Southern New Mexico.

What Are SBT Levels?

SBT Levels are stages of professional growth that guide how clinicians develop and apply their skills in Skills-Based Treatment, an evidence-based approach that helps children build communication, cooperation, and emotional regulation skills.

Each level demonstrates increasing depth of understanding, clinical experience, and leadership within the field. This ensures that every member of the MASC team is continually learning and supported by peers and mentors.

The Seven SBT Levels

At MASC, every clinician is encouraged to “level up” through structured training, supervision, and collaboration.

  • Level 1 – Education Level:
    • Clinicians gain foundational knowledge of SBT principles, focusing on understanding assent-based care and the science behind positive reinforcement.
  • Level 2 – Application Level:
    • Team members begin applying SBT strategies in real sessions, supported by supervision and hands-on training.
  • Level 3 – Support Level:
    • Clinicians assist others in implementing treatment plans and begin contributing to team problem-solving.
  • Level 4 – Lead Level:
  • Therapists take a leadership role in case planning, guiding newer staff while maintaining direct client support.
  • Level 5 – Advanced Level:
    • Professionals demonstrate advanced skill in adapting SBT to complex cases, focusing on communication, emotional regulation, and family collaboration.
  • Level 6 – Supervision Level:
    • Clinicians mentor others, review treatment integrity, and promote clinical consistency across programs.
  • Level 7 – Consultation Level:
    • The highest level reflects mastery: guiding staff, consulting on complex cases, and ensuring MASC continues to provide the highest quality of behavioral care.

Why SBT Levels Matter

The SBT Level system ensures that every child receives therapy from a clinician who is both skilled and supported. As our staff advance through these stages, they bring new insights, tools, and confidence to every session — enhancing outcomes for children and families.

This framework also reflects our core values:

  • Trust and safety in every therapeutic interaction
  • Consistency and collaboration across the clinical team
  • Continuous professional growth rooted in compassion and evidence-based care

Building a Team for the Future

By investing in professional development, MASC ensures that families in Doña Ana County and throughout Southern New Mexico benefit from highly qualified professionals who never stop learning. Every clinician’s journey through the SBT Levels is a reflection of our mission — to provide care that is respectful, innovative, and grounded in understanding.

When you visit MASC, you’re not just meeting a therapist — you’re meeting a member of a dedicated, evolving team working together to support your child’s success.

Learn More About Our SBT Team

Curious to see who’s part of our SBT program and where they are in their journey? Visit our SBT Team page to learn more about the skilled professionals providing compassionate care for families in Southern New Mexico.

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