National Psychology Training Consortium

Introductory --- Designed for psychologists who may have little to no background in a specialized skill or content area. The learner can become acquainted with the theoretical underpinnings, principles, methods, and perspectives of a content area. Although it can be used as a foundation for more advanced learning, a program may simply focus on breadth, enrichment or general knowledge.

Course Description and Target Audience

This presentation will provide an overview of Functional Communication Training (FCT) as an evidence-based intervention for individuals who engage in challenging behaviors such as aggression and self-injury which is often seen in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and intellectual disability. This presentation will cover the principles of behavior, which are foundational to FCT, assessment strategies, implementation steps, and real-world applications across various settings, including schools, home and therapy environments. The target audience would include mental health and education professionals who work with children and adults that engage in challenging behaviors. 

The materials in this presentation will provide an introduction to behavior assessment and intervention. Thus, the novice learner should be able to identify the components of a functional behavioral assessment and be to apply them in their practice. This presentation will not provide individuals the skills and experience to engage in behavioral assessment without the assistance of consultation of a skilled practitioner. Potential risks for using behavioral assessment and intervention techniques include overgeneralization and prompt dependence. If not consistently applied in a rigorous manner FCT may not be effective. 

The practice of behavioral principles should acknowledge cultural norms and practices and consider them in the assessment process. By doing so this enhances the individualization of intervention.

Learning Objectives

• Participants will be able to identify the purpose and principles of Functional Communication Training (FCT).
• Participants will be able to describe the relationship between challenging behaviors and communication deficits.
• Participants will be able to identify the assessment strategies to determine appropriate communication replacements.

Presenter Information

Eddie Scott, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders, behavior analysis, and psychological assessment. He earned his doctorate in School Psychology from the University of Iowa and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Kennedy Krieger Institute/Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where he gained extensive experience working with children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder, intellectual disabilities, and behavioral concerns. Dr. Scott’s expertise includes functional behavioral analysis, functional communication training (FCT), and intervention development for challenging behaviors. With a strong commitment to serving diverse populations, he combines evidence-based practices with culturally responsive care to support individuals and families in achieving meaningful outcomes.

Video Homestudy Format

CE’s for this homestudy training will be earned through completing the following tasks:

• Watch the presentation video and review all provided documents in their entirety.
• Pass the post-test questionnaire with at least 80% correct.

A program evaluation form will be provided to all who registered following the training. Please be sure to complete this form since your feedback helps direct future CE programming from our organization.

Registration Cost

This cost includes video links, materials, and tests required to obtain CE’s. Your CE certificate will be made available to you upon successful completion of the training (80% or higher on exam).

National Psychology Training Consortium (NPTC) is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NPTC maintains responsibility for this program and its content.