We recently had the chance to connect with Armando Bernal and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Armando , we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
Unfortunately, applied behavior analysis has received a large amount of controversial push back from those on social media. It has been called a field that creates robots. Moreover, it has been described as torture by some or a science that cares very little for the feelings of others. However, in my experience I have seen applied behavior analysis support a child’s ability to be independent and successfully achieve goals that others did not think possible. I absolutely love this field as an autistic individual because it makes sense to me. Everything has a reason for occurring and there is no real grey area to discuss. There is a purpose for every action and through that lens an individual can use applied behavior analysis to support a child’s growth as well as help be a wonderful support system that helps the child not only believe in him/herself, but also accomplish any goal they set their mind to.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Armando J. Bernal, Jr. I was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at the age of three. It was at this point that doctors told my mother that I might as well learn sign language because I was never going to be able to speak. She wholeheartedly and passionately disagreed with that statement and continues to be my support system and rock. Through my family’s support I became a special education teacher and then a board certified behavior analyst. Through much love and collaboration my sister and I were able to create Autism International Consulting, PLLC. We are the only autistic owned applied behavior analysis center in Houston, TX and one of two in the entire state of Texas. We provide in-clinic, in-home, and in-school ABA therapy. We accept all insurances, including Medicaid, and believe that transparency is the key to achieving a great community-based company that supports the growth of everyone we serve.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My family helped make me who I am today. My sister’s guidance and my mother and father’s love continues to inspire me. They taught me that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to and it is through that belief I continue to push our company to new heights. It is a belief I hope to provide my daughter as she continues to grow up and it is a mindset I try to instill in each of my employees. I am truly fortunate and honored to work with each one of them and it is through my family I continue to believe that we can accomplish anything!
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I think any business owner may agree that there is a time when starting an organization that you believe the company will fail. There is a time that it feels as if nothing is working out and it would be far easier to throw in the towel and give up. However, business owners may also agree that when that feeling starts to rise up it is in that moment we say no, and push forward anyway. Thankfully, I have an amazing family to surround myself with that continues to push me even when times get hard. They believe in me each and every day and I owe it to them for all of the amazing things we have down so far at Autism International Consulting, PLLC. I think even more so I get to come to a job I absolutely love and see my employees feel just as passionately for the success of our organization as I do. That is a serious blessing in my eyes.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
I consistently have my staff understand that we could not possibly run as an organization if it was not for the direct lineman. In our field they are known as registered behavior technicians. They are an absolute blessing to our organization and I am forever thankful for everything they accomplish. Our patients succeed because of their incredibly hard work. Moreover, I try to instill in each employee the gift and honor it is to support the parents of our organization. We are so incredibly honored to work with our families as they continue to show so much love to our organization. We are continually wanting to ensure they feel valued and heard. They are what help make our organization great and will continue to be the advocates for their amazing children!
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
Honestly, what I do never feels like work. I am accomplishing what I have wanted to do my entire career. More importantly, I get to come to work and help support young lives and see them gain so much independence and happiness. Moreover, I am surrounded by the most passionate and loving staff members around! Every day is an adventure and it doesn’t matter the day or time I am working as I love every minute of it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.autismintl.com
- Instagram: www.instagram/autismintl
