For Brianna Linthwaite, a BCBA at Y.A.L.E. School’s Northfield campus, love was the spark that lit the path to her profession. From the moment her little brother joined her family, Brianna felt a deep and unwavering love that inspired her to support others like him – those on the autism spectrum. He ignited a passion that grew into a career devoted to uplifting those on the spectrum and proudly standing behind them as they shine.
Speaking of her brother with warmth and pride, Brianna explains that the bond they share is above and beyond sibling affection. “He is my favorite person in the whole wide world,” Brianna says. “He’s just the most amazing kid.” She fell in love with not only him, but with a community – one that is often overlooked and underserved, yet deeply deserving of support. That community has become her extended family.
She pursued a career as a BCBA leading her to Y.A.L.E. School. Brianna says working in education means you never stop learning, and when she’s supporting students with special needs, the lessons extend far beyond the classroom. For her, every experience becomes an opportunity for growth, continually fueling her mission to make a difference.
Brianna knew she wanted to stay connected to the autism community even after the final school bell rang at the end of the school year at Y.A.L.E. A friend recommended Autism on the Seas – a travel agency that pairs families of children having special needs with certified autism specialists to ensure everyone can enjoy a relaxing, inclusive vacation. Watching her parents care for her younger brother made Brianna especially attuned to the needs of caregivers. “Caregivers deserve to have a vacation too!” she says.
Through her summer work with organizations outside of Y.A.L.E. School, Brianna says she often reflects on the skills she’s developed and refined. These skills help her better support individuals in any setting – whether inside the classroom or beyond.
“Being able to explore my passion in a different capacity, I think, makes me a better BCBA,” she reflects. She credits
Y.A.L.E. with teaching her how to identify sensory-friendly environments on the fly, and how to pivot quickly and calmly – an ability she sees as essential in her work.
This skill set has allowed her to form strong, lasting connections with students and clients, often in a short amount of time. One family from Autism on the Seas even specifically requests her presence on their trips, citing the special bond she’s built with their child in just a few interactions.
Brianna’s dedication is a shining example of what it means to serve the autism community with heart and intention. Whether on land or sea, she reminds us all that creating inclusive spaces – in the classroom, on vacation or in your family life – starts with empathy, understanding and a never-ending desire to learn and grow. And in her case, with a little brother as the inspiration for the journey, Brianna has found the adventure to be intensely rewarding.