Sarah Costa Case Study

Enhancing lesson delivery, boosting engagement, and reducing tech friction in ABA sessions

Overview

As Director of Clinical Excellence overseeing ABA programs in RI and MA, Sarah Costa and her team implemented
FirstWork to improve lesson delivery, increase client engagement, and reduce technology-related friction in sessions.
The platform is now being woven into daily practice, offering a modern complement to the team’s existing methodologies.

1. Streamlining Lesson Setup and Delivery

Problem: Customizing materials and troubleshooting technology during sessions reduced staff efficiency and pulled attention away from client support.

Solution: FirstWork’s user-friendly design made lesson customization fast and intuitive for clinicians at all levels.

“The user-friendly interface makes it simple to set up and tailor to individual needs,
allowing staff to spend more time supporting clients and less time troubleshooting technology.”

Impact:

  • Faster setup for individualized programs
  • Fewer tech-related disruptions
  • More time available for meaningful instruction

2. Increasing Learner Engagement with Digital Stimuli

Problem: Clients often showed reduced attention or interest when using static printed materials.

Solution: The interactive format of FirstWork captured client interest in a way that traditional flashcards did not.

“One of the standout benefits we’ve noticed is how many clients respond more attentively to the stimuli
presented on the iPad compared to traditional methods like printed pictures.”

“The interactive format seems to capture their interest in a way that static materials often do not.”

Impact:

  • Increased trial participation and attentiveness
  • More natural and effective reinforcement
  • Greater opportunity for learning across a wider range of clients

3. A Flexible Addition to Existing Systems

Problem: Integrating new tools can sometimes clash with existing workflows or instructional models.

Solution: FirstWork was not a replacement—but a seamless enhancement to the clinic’s established clinical approach.

“We are currently working to integrate FirstWork into our daily practice.
It complements our existing approaches while offering a modern, flexible tool
that adapts to the needs of both clients and staff.”

Impact:

  • FirstWork filled gaps without overhauling systems
  • Clinicians retained autonomy while gaining new capabilities
  • Integration has been smooth and well-received

4. Responsive and Reliable Support

Problem: New platforms often become frustrating without responsive technical support.

Solution: The FirstWork team offered accessible, knowledgeable assistance whenever needed.

“Whenever we’ve encountered technical difficulties or had questions,
support has been prompt, helpful, and easy to access.”

“It’s clear that the team behind FirstWork is dedicated to ensuring
a smooth experience for both clients and practitioners.”

Impact:

  • Fast resolution of minor issues
  • Confidence in implementation team-wide
  • Positive feedback from clinicians and leadership

Final Reflection

“Overall, FirstWork has become a valuable tool in our daily practice, enhancing engagement and streamlining our workflow.”