BCI tabs Colleen Canty to lead Fitchburg location

Behavioral Concepts, Inc. (BCI), a company of behavioral clinicians specializing in the care of children with autism in Central Massachusetts, recently named Ayer resident Colleen Canty as the director of the company’s new location in Fitchburg, Mass. BCI opened the new location at 207 Authority Drive earlier this month.

The new location will replicate programs and services provided at BCI’s corporate headquarters at 345 Greenwood Street in Worcester, as well as be a base of operations for staff providing in-home operations.

“There is a great demand for services for children with autism in the Fitchburg/Route 2 corridor. Right now, we have only been able to work with clients in their homes. The new location opens up those services and a myriad of other opportunities for our clients within the community,” said Dr. Jeff Robinson, founder and director of Behavioral Concepts, Inc. “With her experience, education and roots in the community, Colleen is the perfect choice for the job.”

Canty began her behavioral services work in the Fitchburg community as the program manager of in-home behavioral services for LUK Crisis Center. She then moved into a behavioral consultant role in several local public school districts, including Fitchburg, Ayer-Shirley Regional, and West Boylston.

A board certified behavior analyst (BCBA®), Canty holds a master’s degree in education and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in behavior modification from Fitchburg State University. She’s currently an adjunct professor at Cappella University and a Ph.D. candidate at Antioch University. Canty received her undergraduate degree from Clark University in Worcester, Mass.

Additionally, Canty has been a long-time volunteer for many nonprofit organizations in the area, most notably the Special Olympics, ARC, Montachusett Interfaith Hospitality Network and the Hope Center. She also sat on the Board of the North Central Massachusetts Faith Based Community Coalition and is currently that organization’s membership coordinator.

“I have a brother with special needs. Though his challenges are different from children with autism, my brother and our entire family benefitted from the services provided by a number of organizations in our community,” said Canty. “I’m eager for BCI to be that kind of positive resource for Fitchburg area children and clients with autism and their families.”

Canty has several items on her to-do list that go beyond the 100-plus families with children with autism on BCI’s wait list. That includes partnering with local businesses for work opportunities for students and getting together with Fitchburg State to develop an internship program.

“BCI already has a number of Fitchburg alums working at the Worcester headquarters. With an office in the same city, it seems like the perfect opportunity to create a pathway to employment for Fitchburg students,” added Canty.

A ribbon-cutting for BCI’s Fitchburg office is scheduled for January 17, 4pm to 7pm at the 207 Authority Drive location.

Added Dr. Robinson, “With Colleen at the helm, we look forward to not only helping children with autism and their families, but building relationships in the local community. That includes developing work opportunities for our clients and creating jobs for aspiring behaviorists.”

For more information about BCI and it’s services, visit www.bciaba.com or call 508-363-0200.