Behavior Analyst Matt Frey did not set out to have a career working with autistic adults. He joined Eden in 2013 as a Direct Support Professional, with no prior experience working with Eden’s population. As he got to know the Adult Services participants, he knew he had found his calling. “When I first came in, it was a job, but over time it became less of a job and more of a purpose,” he said.
During his first few years on the job, Matt learned a lot about participants and their behavior from the Adult Services clinical team and mentors who were passionate about their jobs. “I would eventually come to learn that the clinical team was able to look at behavior through a scientific lens and apply the tenets of applied behavior analysis in real time,” said Matt. “The clinical team was always willing to talk to me and help me better understand the importance of their role. Whether it be addressing challenging behavior or teaching skill acquisition, the clinical team was always there to support our individuals and staff.”
Over the past 13 years, Matt worked in our day programs and residences while getting his degree and BCBA certification. He joined the Adult Services clinical team in January of 2024.
“After years of hard work, Matt recently earned his BCBA certification. We are so proud of his achievement, and he is committed to channeling his knowledge and skills right back into the residential program where he started,” said Director of Clinical Services Lisa Toole.
Matt now spends his days at Schalks Crossing and Eden residences. At Schalks Crossing, many individuals are of retirement age, so there is an emphasis on leisure activities. “This is the first cohort who are at retirement age,” said Matt. “Many of our individuals who joined in 1975 when Eden was founded are now here, and it is our responsibility to teach them how to retire and keep enjoying life.”
Whether he is working on leisure skills at Schalks Crossing or helping individuals in residences increase their independence by expanding their life skills, Matt puts compassionate care at the forefront of his work. “I have found working with adults to be deeply meaningful. Supporting them as they age and empowering them with the skills to make their own choices is very fulfilling,” he said.
For Matt, the most rewarding part of his job is sharing progress with families and celebrating the wins together. “Being able to help participants make real progress and then share that growth with their families is so rewarding to me. I know how much trust families place in us to care for their loved ones, and I want to honor that trust the best that I can.”