This month, we’re highlighting Stephanie Koh, founder of Little Green Tugboat, in our Motivator Spotlight series. Stephanie’s journey into ABA began unexpectedly during her time at UCLA, where a powerful classroom moment sparked her passion for the field. Now as a BCBA and clinical owner, she focuses on naturalistic, flexible ABA that empowers both clients and caregivers.
Can you share your journey in ABA therapy and what inspired you to pursue it?
I stumbled upon ABA during my 5th year as an undergrad at UCLA because a friend of mine in the psych program told me that the professor (Ivar Lovaas) was highly entertaining. I also needed an upper elective to graduate, so I took his course. That was my introduction to ABA therapy and autism.
Dr. Lovaas (as part of his course, Intro to Behavior Modification), did a demo of the therapy. I found myself in the midst of a 200 person lecture hall with tears streaming down my face after an adorable 5 year old boy counted 10 bears and smiled in joy and pride when everybody applauded. This was the moment I became interested in ABA.
I pursued my Masters in Special Education, where my interests continued to grow, and I became fascinated in the naturalistic approach, focusing more on the developmental model with the traditional Lovaas method.
What's been the most rewarding aspect of your role as a BCBA or clinical owner?
Teaching effective strategies and skills to parents and caregivers, which they continue to use long after treatment. The other piece is sharing the knowledge and experiences with practitioners to continue to improve and progress the field of ABA.
How would you describe the impact of Motivity on your team’s ability to provide quality care?
Motivity is flexible, which is the model of LGT’s brand of ABA. We are flexible and naturalistic, and that is a key component for quality care. Motivity allows us this flexibility, unlike other softwares on the market.
Can you share one powerful ABA strategy or technique you find impactful for your clients?
Following their lead, which is the most impactful. Start with the child’s interest, and then build off of that.
Outside of work, what's a hobby or interest you're passionate about, and how do you balance it with your professional life?
Cooking is a passion of mine, and it’s something I truly enjoy. It’s a creative outlet for me. It helps me with healthy eating habits. I find it very relatable to ABA therapy. Cooking meets my sensory needs, and they help keep me grounded and balanced. Cooking is flexible, and you can use so many recipes. It’s a mish mosh of things and tools in your toolbox. This aligns with the LGT brand of ABA. In therapy, you find what's in your toolbox, collect the necessary items, and then you get to work on creating something amazing!
What's been your biggest win with Motivity?
My biggest win with Motivity would be the ease of use, noting how flexible it is. It makes it so easy to create a session note, and I really like how user friendly it is. If we come across something that needs to be modified, it is easily modifiable.
If you could tell someone considering Motivity one thing about your experience, what would it be?
The support is amazing, and the staff has been nothing but friendly, helpful and upfront. There’s nothing hidden or misleading. The company is really honest and transparent with how they do business.
