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Esdm Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Esdm information

See Indiana salary details

$15.7K

$85.1K

$136.1K

How much do esdm jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for esdm in Indiana is $85,075.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,700.00 and $93,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by ESDM therapists when implementing individualized treatment plans?

ESDM therapists often encounter challenges such as adapting intervention strategies to fit each child's unique needs and pace of progress. Balancing structured teaching with naturalistic, play-based approaches requires flexibility and creativity. Additionally, maintaining consistent communication with families and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams is essential, but can be complex due to differing perspectives or schedules. Despite these challenges, ESDM therapists find the role rewarding as they observe meaningful developmental gains in the children they support.

What are ESDM professionals?

ESDM stands for Early Start Denver Model, and ESDM professionals are trained therapists or specialists who provide early intervention therapy for young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They use a play-based, relationship-focused approach that integrates behavioral and developmental principles to promote language, cognitive, and social skills. ESDM professionals may include psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, or special educators who have received specific training and certification in the ESDM methodology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an ESDM therapist, you need a background in psychology, education, or a related field, along with specialized training or certification in the ESDM approach. Familiarity with behavior analysis tools, data collection systems, and ESDM treatment protocols is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and effective communication are vital for engaging young children with autism and collaborating with families. These skills ensure the delivery of evidence-based interventions that support optimal developmental outcomes for children.

What is the difference between Esdm vs Speech-Language Pathologist?

AspectEsdmSpeech-Language Pathologist
CredentialsTypically requires specialized training in Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)Requires a master's degree in speech-language pathology and state licensure
Work EnvironmentPrimarily works with young children with autism in early intervention settingsWorks with individuals of all ages with speech, language, or communication disorders in clinics, schools, or hospitals
Industry UsageUsed mainly in autism early intervention programsWidely used across healthcare, education, and private practice for various communication disorders

While Esdm focuses on early intervention for children with autism using specific behavioral techniques, Speech-Language Pathologists have a broader scope, diagnosing and treating a wide range of speech and language disorders across different age groups. Both roles require specialized training, but their work environments and client populations differ significantly.

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Esdm jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Esdm job openings:
Behavior Analyst Trainee - ABA Services

Behavior Analyst Trainee - ABA Services

Damar Services, Inc.

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$70K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Damar Services rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Location: Indianapolis, IN (Southwest Indianapolis)
Employees at Damar aren't just part of a workforce - they're part of a mission-driven team making a real difference in people's lives.
Since 1967, Damar has been recognized across Indiana as one of the largest not-for-profit organizations and a leading provider of behavioral health and intellectual and developmental disability (I/DD) services. We foster a united, purpose-driven culture where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated to give their best. It's no surprise Damar has been named a Top Workplace for several years!
Ready to make a real difference?
Join us in empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or autism. Damar is currently seeking Behavior Analyst Trainee's to join our highly skilled ABA team at our Ameriplex Clinic 5125 Decatur Blvd, Suite A, Indianapolis, IN 46241. The Behavior Analyst Trainee serves as a support person for clients and staff while obtaining fieldwork supervision and support from a Senior Program Manager. The Behavior Analyst Trainee must actively participate in fieldwork supervision meetings and assignments. They will support behavior analysts with various tasks related to caseload management. This role is a position focused on developing critical skills and competencies necessary for promotion into a Program Manager role.
ABA Autism Services by Damar combines the long-term experience and expertise of Damar with cutting-edge Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) approaches to offer a solution to families facing the challenges of raising a child with autism. While many nonprofit and for-profit businesses offer ABA services, only ABA Autism Services by Damar can back its services with the experience and expertise of an organization that has been serving people with developmental challenges and autism for more than 50 years.
Damar's ABA program begins with an evaluation that includes a full assessment of each child. Observation time, parent interviews, and the appropriate assessment tools are used to create an individualized treatment plan in order to meet the unique needs of your child with autism. Our services can include:
  • Intensive Behavioral Training
  • Social & Community Training
  • Speech & Occupational Therapy Services
  • Diagnostic Services
  • Community Integration

Here are just a few of the benefits you'll enjoy at Damar:
  • Discretionary pay bonuses
  • Paid CEUs and BCBA renewal
  • Lower caseloads
  • Trauma Informed Care
  • Collaborative environment
  • Growth opportunities
  • Eligible for the Damar Advantage including discounts at Damar Health Services and Damar Pharmacy
  • Comprehensive training in verbal intervention and physical management techniques
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance options
  • Up to $3,000 per year in Tuition Assistance
  • Save for your retirement with our 401(k) Plan Participation
  • Take care of loved ones through our Damar provided Life Insurance and additional voluntary options
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance options
  • Paid Holidays to spend time with loved ones
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) for rest and renewal

Remarkable ways you will be making a difference:
  • Assists the Program Manager with the completion of various assessments, such as EFL, VBMAPP, ESDM, etc
  • Assists with continuing education events for ABA therapists
  • Assists the Program Manager with the implementation of FBAs as needed
  • Remains available and approachable to ABA therapists for questions, concerns, or ideas regarding client programming or behavior intervention
  • Serves as a member of Damar Services' interdisciplinary team
  • Attends mandatory staff meetings before or after work hours
  • Attends and contributes to monthly clinical meetings
  • Provides direct therapy for an average of 30-35 hours per week
  • Acts as a mentor to new ABA therapists
  • Actively participates in group and individual supervision meetings
  • Ensures the ABA therapist's understanding of new and previously trained (by BCBA) interventions or procedures through the collection of IOA data
  • Supports ongoing training initiatives to provide ABA Therapists practical application of ABA principles for client specific needs
  • Uses Behavior Skills Training (BST) to train, model, observe, etc
  • Performs RBT Competency Assessment-Renewals for current RBTs within a designated period and properly follows guidelines outlined for this process
  • Uses a variety of tools to help determine the function and definition of maladaptive behavior
  • Seeks opportunities for billable time, such as, supporting assessment
  • Supports behavior analysts with initial or reauthorization reports, treatment planning, and Central Reach Learning Tree set up

What you need to be considered:
  • Bachelor's Degree preferred
  • Minimum 6 months previous experience with autism spectrum disorders required
  • RBT required
  • Coursework and/or enrollment in supervision towards BCaBA or BCBA certification required
  • Must be acquiring the first half/second half of the current BACB requirement for fieldwork supervision
  • Minimum age of 18 per licensure requirements
  • Valid Indiana driver's license and driving record that meets eligibility requirements of Damar's insurance carrier (for all positions requiring driving)
  • Be clear of any felony convictions, substantiated charges of neglect or other disqualifying criminal convictions
  • Successfully complete a pre-employment physical
  • Favorably meet and maintain Damar's background screening

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