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Episode #251: Supporting Parents Through Telehealth with Lily Darnell and Sarah Varillas

Lily Darnell and Sarah Varillas of Inner Circle Autism Network are using a telehealth behavioral parent training model to support families in a powerful new way. Their approach helps parents gain the tools and confidence to use ABA strategies at home—especially when traditional, clinic-based services may not be accessible.

For many families, clinic environments or long waitlists can create barriers to care. Inner Circle’s telehealth model offers a lifeline for those in transition, waiting for services, or needing support that fits into their family’s daily life. As Lily and Sarah share, parents already have so much on their plates, and telehealth can meet them where they are.

For clinicians interested in getting started, the RUBI Parent Training package is available online, complete with resources and worksheets. Lily and Sarah also offer practical advice: review state licensing requirements and payer guidelines for virtual care, plan meet-and-greets for new families, and structure a caseload that allows for flexibility and consistency.

Ultimately, many parents can benefit from a coach, confidant, and partner. Through this innovative telehealth model, ABA can reach beyond the clinic walls to truly support families in their everyday lives.

#autism #speechtherapy

Today’s Guest:

Lily C. Darnell is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with over a decade of experience in clinical practice, policy development, and leadership. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Florida and her Master’s in Human Services Psychology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, completing her practicum at the Kennedy Krieger Institute—Neurobehavioral Inpatient Unit. Lily has held leadership roles, including Clinical Director at Arc of Alachua County, where she expanded services for individuals with genetic disorders, and as the first BCBA for Tennessee’s Department of Mental Health, where she advanced hospital-wide policy and staff training initiatives. She has presented nationally, published on behavior analysis, and remains active in professional associations. Currently, Lily serves as Research and Family Support Supervisor at Inner Circle Autism Network, where she developed the Caregiver Support Program, a telehealth model that expands access to ABA services for underserved families. This program is designed to enhance caregiver competence, reduce family stress, and improve quality of life through accessible, caregiver-mediated intervention. Outside of her professional work, Lily volunteers at Critter Creek Farm Sanctuary in Gainesville, Florida.

Sarah Varillas is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with over a decade of experience in clinical leadership, systems development, and research collaboration. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Florida and her Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis from Arizona State University, completing research collaborations with Dr. Iwata’s and Dr. Vollmer’s labs. Sarah has held leadership roles spanning from Clinical Director to Associate Vice President of Clinical Services, overseeing multi-state operations across 30+ clinics, and later serving as Vice President of Special Projects and Chief Clinical Officer for a national ABA organization. She currently serves as Chief Clinical Officer at Inner Circle Autism Network, where she leads clinical outcomes, develops innovative programs such as the Caregiver Support Program, and fosters research partnerships with universities.

What’s Inside:

  • How Inner Circle Autism Network supports families through a telehealth model
  • The benefits of behavioral parent training for accessibility and flexibility
  • When telehealth is the right fit for families waiting for or transitioning between services
  • Getting started with the RUBI Parent Training package and key clinician considerations

Mentioned In This Episode

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