My commitment to this work is deeply personal. Growing up with my brother, Michael, who has Angelman Syndrome, I saw the joy he brought to our family, but also the obstacles my parents faced without a roadmap. They navigated those early years without the proactive reach of the ESDM model or other strong early intervention supports, and I often wonder how much easier their path could have been with a guide by their side. This is what fuels my mission; I want to ensure that no family today has to navigate developmental milestones or the search for answers alone.
I founded Next Steps Developmental Consulting to transform evidence-based clinical insights into doable, everyday support you can use at home. You are the expert on your child, and I am here to validate your instincts and help you bypass long waitlists for the clarity you deserve. Whether your child is following a unique path or you are noticing early signs of autism, we will work together to create a hopeful, confident future starting now.
The Heart Behind Next Steps: Patty Bell, M.A. BCBA
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and a certified Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) therapist dedicated to your child’s growth. My background includes a psychology degree from Colorado College and a Master’s in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of Northern Colorado. Throughout my career, I have served families as a special education coordinator for Denver Public Schools and as clinical director of an autism center. These roles allowed me to master the ESDM model in real-world settings. Currently, I am expanding my expertise through advanced training specifically for infants under 20 months, ensuring I provide the most effective, evidence-based support for your little one.
What to Expect From Coaching
I am here to help you navigate your child's developmental journey through a supportive partnership that adapts to your needs.
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Collaborative sessions that begin with your family's priorities and goals, then blend seamlessly into your child's natural play and everyday routines.
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Hands-on coaching where you'll observe, practice, reflect, and problem-solve together, building your confidence every step of the way.
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Evidence-based strategies you and other caregivers can naturally use throughout the day to support communication, social engagement, play, and learning.
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Ongoing reflection and collaboration to celebrate progress, troubleshoot challenges, and adjust strategies as your child grows.
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Family-centered support that empowers you with the knowledge and confidence to create meaningful learning opportunities long after our sessions end.