Advertise on podcast: The How to ABA Podcast

Effective ABA supervision isn’t just about teaching staff what to do. We also need to help them develop the confidence and clinical judgment to know when to act independently. Just as we carefully fade prompts with our learners, we need to recognize when it’s time to fade our support with staff. We explore how stepping in too quickly can take away valuable learning opportunities and unintentionally create dependence on supervisors. Instead, we can look for signs of readiness, give staff time to respond, and create opportunities for them to problem solve and make clinical decisions. We also share practical coaching strategies, including modeling our thought process, explaining the “why” behind our decisions, and providing timely feedback while keeping the learner’s needs and staff privacy in mind. When we guide decision-making without making every decision for our team, we help staff build skills that extend across learners, settings, and situations. Ultimately, thoughtful supervision helps us develop confident, independent staff who can provide the right level of support and create greater independence for the learners they serve. What's Inside:  How to recognize when staff are ready for less supervisory supportWays to build clinical judgment through modeling, problem solving, and feedbackWhy fading support can strengthen staff confidence and learner independenceMentioned In This Episode Episode 105: Hierarchy of Prompting in ABA The Future of ABA: Building Clinical Judgment and Compassion CEU HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

Mistakes are a natural part of learning, but as supervisors, it can be tempting to jump in and correct staff before they have a chance to learn from them. When we create space for small, low-risk errors, we can help staff build competence, confidence, and stronger clinical judgment. We explore how supervisors can shift the focus from perfection to progress while still maintaining high standards for treatment integrity and client outcomes. The key is knowing the difference between a learning mistake and an issue that requires immediate intervention, such as a safety concern, ethical issue, or significant performance problem. We also discuss how thoughtful feedback can turn mistakes into meaningful coaching opportunities. Timely, specific, behavior-focused, and actionable feedback helps staff understand not only what to do differently, but why it matters. Creating psychological safety is equally important so staff feel comfortable asking questions, reflecting on their performance, and responding to feedback. Finally, we look at our own role as supervisors and why self-reflection matters when staff struggle. Better supervision is not about preventing every mistake. It is about helping people learn from them and continue to grow. What's Inside:  How to distinguish learning mistakes from safety, ethical, or performance concernsWhy progress and responsiveness to feedback matter more than perfectionHow coaching, psychological safety, and supervisor reflection support staff growthMentioned In This Episode Episode 255: Giving Constructive Feedback in ABA Without Creating Defensiveness HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

Strong ABA clinicians need more than the ability to follow a procedure. They also need clinical judgment to recognize when a situation calls for flexibility, ask thoughtful questions, and make decisions that reflect the individual learner. In supervision, our job is to help staff develop those skills while maintaining procedural fidelity. We talk about how clinical decision-making develops after staff have a strong foundation in procedures and why real-time coaching is such an important part of that growth. By narrating our own thought processes, asking reflective questions, and explaining the reasoning behind our choices, we can help staff understand the bigger picture rather than simply follow a checklist. We also explore the role of ethics, family values, research, client assent and dissent, and our own biases in clinical decisions. Mistakes can become valuable learning opportunities when supervisors create a supportive environment where staff can safely problem-solve and receive meaningful feedback. Ultimately, thoughtful supervision helps clinicians move from dependence toward independence and become more confident, flexible decision-makers. What’s Inside:  Balancing procedural fidelity with clinical judgmentUsing real-time coaching and reflective questions to strengthen decision-makingCreating safe opportunities for staff to learn from mistakesMentioned in This Episode: Episode 241: ABA Supervision Strategies: Leading with Behavior Science to Be a Great BCBA Supervisor Guiding Your ABA Team: Staff Training that Builds Confidence HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

As BCBAs, it can be tempting to step in, answer every question, and fix problems ourselves. We want to support our staff, protect our learners, and maintain high-quality services. But when we step in too quickly or too often, we can unintentionally create dependence instead of building confidence. We’re talking about how to shift from being the person with all the answers to becoming a coach who helps staff develop stronger clinical judgment. We explore why micromanaging can lead to supervisor burnout, fewer opportunities for staff to practice decision making, and less confidence when supervisors aren’t present. We also share ways to build independence by teaching the process behind clinical decisions, creating space for safe mistakes, asking reflective questions, and helping staff understand the principles behind protocols rather than simply following scripts. From debriefing after sessions to fading supervisor support and using behavioral skills training, the goal is to help staff think critically and confidently while still knowing when supervisor involvement is necessary. Strong supervision isn’t about always being there with the answer. It’s about building staff who can make thoughtful decisions when we’re not there. What’s Inside:  How micromanaging can create staff dependence and supervisor burnoutCoaching strategies that strengthen clinical reasoning, reflection, and confidenceHow to fade support while maintaining appropriate supervision, safety, and ethical careMentioned in This Episode: Episode 133: The BST Model – Behavioral Skills Training The Future of ABA: Building Clinical Judgement and Compassion HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

Great ABA staff training is about more than teaching procedures. We want our teams to feel prepared, supported, and confident enough to think critically and make strong clinical decisions. Building that confidence takes time, practice, clear expectations, and ongoing coaching. We explore how Behavior Skills Training (BST) can guide staff development through instruction, modeling, practice, and feedback. Just like learning to ride a bike, watching someone else isn’t enough. Staff need opportunities to try skills themselves, make mistakes safely, reflect on their performance, and gradually become more independent. We also talk about creating psychological safety around questions, choosing experienced staff as models, and focusing feedback on what’s going well instead of only pointing out what needs improvement. Supervisors can build stronger clinicians by resisting the urge to immediately jump in with the answer and giving staff space to problem solve. When we pair technical training with reflection, curiosity, and meaningful encouragement, we help staff develop skills that last. That confidence can support staff retention, stronger clinical culture, future leadership, and ultimately better outcomes for learners. What’s Inside:  Using BST, practice, and feedback to build staff competence and confidenceCreating psychological safety while encouraging questions, reflection, and problem solvingFading supervisor support to promote independence and stronger clinical decision-makingMentioned in This Episode: Episode 133: The BST Model – Behavioral Skills Training Guiding Your ABA Team: Staff Training that Builds Confidence CEU HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

When learners with ADHD and autism struggle with tasks, routines, or transitions, it can be easy to focus on the behaviors we see. But those behaviors are often only the tip of the iceberg. Instead of asking why a learner is not doing something, we can ask what might be getting in the way. We explore practical strategies for addressing skill deficits and reducing barriers at home and in the classroom. We discuss reducing response effort by breaking larger tasks into manageable pieces, making expectations visible through schedules and checklists, and supporting task initiation with behavioral momentum, transition warnings, and thoughtfully placed reinforcement. We also look at ways to explicitly teach transitions, reinforce small successes, and proactively offer meaningful choices that support autonomy and independence. Replacement skills are another essential piece, including communication, emotional regulation, problem solving, and self-advocacy. Finally, we consider how these supports can translate between school and home without expecting the systems to look identical. Our goal is to meet learners where they are while continuing to build the skills they need for greater independence and success. What’s Inside:  Looking beneath observable behavior to identify skill deficits and barriersPractical supports for task initiation, transitions, routines, and independenceUsing reinforcement, choice, visuals, and replacement skills more effectivelyMentioned in This Episode: Episode 172: How to Teach Executive Functioning Skills Can’t Do or Won’t Do: A Systematic Way of Solving Behavior Challenges with Sasha Long Episode 065: How to Use Reinforcement Properly HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

When a learner struggles to complete work, follow directions, or stay engaged, it is easy to assume motivation is the problem. But what if the real barrier is a missing skill? We explore the difference between a learner who can't do something and one who won't do it, and why making that distinction is essential for effective, compassionate ABA practice. Using practical examples, we look at how attention, emotional regulation, executive functioning, and other foundational skills can be mistaken for motivation challenges. We also discuss the risks of relying on reinforcement alone when a learner does not yet have the skills needed to succeed. We share simple questions behavior analysts can ask before making assumptions, along with strategies for identifying skill deficits, evaluating environmental barriers, adjusting expectations, and teaching missing skills systematically. When we approach behavior with curiosity instead of judgment, we create interventions that are more effective, more compassionate, and better aligned with each learner's needs. It starts by asking one simple question: Is this really a motivation issue, or are we targeting the wrong thing? What’s Inside:  Why "can't do" and "won't do" require different intervention strategiesQuestions to ask before assuming motivation is the problemPractical ways to identify and teach missing skillsMentioned in This Episode: Episode 172: How to Teach Executive Functioning Skills Can’t Do or Won’t Do: A Systematic Way of Solving Behavior Challenges with Sasha Long HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

What if the biggest obstacle to behavior change is not motivation at all? Executive functioning skills often influence how learners manage tasks, regulate emotions, transition between activities, and develop independence. Whether someone has autism, ADHD, anxiety, a learning disability, or no diagnosis, challenges with executive functioning can make everyday expectations much harder than they appear. We explore the core skills that make up executive functioning, including working memory, cognitive flexibility, inhibition, planning, task initiation, emotional regulation, and self-monitoring. We also discuss why these challenges are so often mistaken for noncompliance and how shifting our perspective can lead to more compassionate, effective support. From independent activity schedules and visual supports to environmental modifications and explicit skill teaching, we share practical strategies that help learners build these essential skills. We also introduce our Early Executive Functioning course, designed to help young children develop foundational executive functioning abilities through structured, developmentally appropriate activities. By focusing on the skills behind the behavior, we can create interventions that build lasting independence and meaningful progress. What’s Inside:  Why executive functioning challenges are often mistaken for noncomplianceThe core executive functioning skills that influence behavior and learningPractical strategies to teach independence, flexibility, and task initiationMentioned in This Episode: Episode 172: How to Teach Executive Functioning Skills Early Executive Functioning Mastery Course HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

Puberty, relationships, and sexuality are natural parts of development, yet they are often overlooked in ABA programming. In this conversation, we explore why these topics should be introduced early, rather than waiting until challenges arise, and how proactive teaching can promote safety, dignity, and independence. We discuss practical ways to teach body changes, hygiene, privacy, consent, boundaries, friendships, and healthy relationships using developmentally appropriate strategies. We also highlight the importance of practicing skills in real-life settings, helping learners generalize what they have learned beyond structured teaching sessions. Throughout the conversation, we emphasize balancing safety with autonomy while respecting each learner's individual needs, family values, and personal goals. Supporting learners through puberty is about much more than preventing risk. It is about building self-advocacy, informed decision making, and meaningful opportunities for independence. By approaching these conversations with respect, collaboration, and compassion, we can help autistic teens and young adults navigate an important stage of life with greater confidence and understanding. What’s Inside:  Why puberty, consent, and relationships should be taught earlyPractical strategies for teaching privacy, boundaries, and self-advocacyBalancing safety, autonomy, and family values in ABA programmingMentioned in This Episode: Episode 113: How to Maintain Client Dignity in ABA Dr. Peter Gerhardt Making It Meaningful by Peter Gerhardt and Shana Berry HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

ADHD is one of the most common co-occurring diagnoses BCBAs encounter, yet it is often misunderstood. Looking beyond observable behaviour helps us better understand the executive functioning, self-regulation, and attention challenges that can influence learning, motivation, and behaviour. We discuss the different presentations of ADHD, clear up common misconceptions, and discuss why understanding the reason behind a learner's behaviour leads to more effective, individualized intervention. We also compare how ADHD and autism can present with similar behaviours while requiring very different treatment approaches. From executive functioning skills like planning, working memory, organization, and task initiation to practical strategies for supporting regulation, motivation, and independence, we share ways to adapt teaching sessions and build supports that set learners up for success. Throughout the conversation, we emphasize compassionate care, collaboration across settings, and recognizing strengths alongside challenges. By understanding what is happening beneath the surface, BCBAs can create interventions that are more meaningful, responsive, and effective for learners with ADHD. What’s Inside:  Why ADHD affects learning far beyond attentionExecutive functioning skills every BCBA should understandPractical strategies for supporting learners with ADHD in ABAMentioned in This Episode: Episode 193: Common Comorbidities with Autism and the Behavioral Implications The Explosive Child by Dr. Ross Greene HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

Helping learners become truly independent means more than fading prompts. It means knowing when to step back so confidence, problem solving, and self-management can grow. While it's natural to want to help, too much adult guidance can unintentionally create dependence that limits opportunities at home, school, work, and in the community. We explore the difference between prompt dependence and people dependence, and why building independence should always be part of the teaching plan from the very beginning. We also share practical strategies for replacing adult prompts with natural supports such as visual schedules, checklists, calendars, timers, self-monitoring systems, and environmental cues that learners can rely on long after direct support has faded. Along the way, we discuss why allowing safe opportunities to struggle is an important part of learning, how collaboration with families and teams supports successful fading, and why thoughtfully reducing support helps learners develop the confidence and skills they need for greater autonomy. Independence is not about removing support. It's about creating systems that evolve with the learner and promote lasting success. What’s Inside:  Why prompt fading is only one part of building independencePractical tools that reduce reliance on adult supportStrategies for promoting confidence through thoughtful fadingMentioned in This Episode: Episode 105: Hierarchy of Prompting in ABA Self & Match HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

The future our learners build should reflect what matters to them, not just the goals others set for them. We explore what it means to include client voice in future planning through every stage of development, from early choice making to meaningful participation in transition planning and adulthood. We discuss why learner assent, autonomy, and self advocacy should be taught from an early age and how everyday opportunities to communicate preferences help prepare learners for bigger life decisions. We also look at common barriers that can limit participation, including assumptions about communication, caregiver priorities, and time constraints, while sharing practical ways to create more person centered planning. We also talk about balancing family perspectives with learner independence, supporting meaningful communication in all its forms, and focusing on strengths when planning for the future. Whether supporting young children or preparing teens and young adults for adulthood, our goal is to help every learner have a genuine voice in shaping a future that reflects their interests, preferences, and quality of life. What’s Inside:  Teaching self advocacy and choice making from an early ageSupporting client voice in transition and future planningBalancing family priorities with learner autonomy and strengthsMentioned in This Episode: The Spark: A Mother's Story of Nurturing, Genius, and Autism What Color Is Your Parachute? Job-Hunter's Workbook Episode 203: Balancing Safety and Compassion in Interventions HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

What happens when our learners leave school but still need support navigating everyday life? We explore the functional skills that truly matter as teens and young adults move toward greater independence. From communication and self-advocacy to hygiene, community safety, leisure skills, and daily living routines, we discuss how meaningful goals can create lasting impact beyond the classroom. We share why transition planning should start much earlier than many people think and how working backward from long-term outcomes can help identify the skills that will make the biggest difference in adulthood. We also discuss the importance of balancing autonomy with safety, teaching skills in natural environments, and involving learners and families in the goal-setting process. Throughout the conversation, we highlight practical ways to build independence while respecting individual strengths, interests, cultural values, and future goals. Whether a learner is working toward independent living, supported living, employment, or greater participation in their community, functional skills provide the foundation for a more meaningful and self-directed life. What’s Inside:  Why functional skills should be prioritized earlyBuilding communication, self-advocacy, and daily living skillsCreating individualized transition plans for adulthoodMentioned in This Episode: Episode 176: Fostering Independence with Dr. Peter Gerhardt & Dr. Shanna Bahry Meaningful Goals by Peter Gerhardt and Shana Berry HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

Burnout in ABA is not always about long hours or packed schedules. Often, it comes from the emotional labor that accompanies supporting clients, families, staff, and teams every day. In this conversation, we explore the invisible demands of helping professions and how constantly staying regulated, managing difficult conversations, and carrying the concerns of others can quietly drain our energy over time. We discuss why burnout is often connected to boundaries, workplace systems, and the expectations we place on ourselves. Compassionate professionals frequently struggle with saying no, setting limits, or recognizing when they have reached capacity. Yet protecting our time and energy is not selfish. It is essential for providing ethical, high-quality care. We also share practical ways to recognize emotional overload, create sustainable boundaries, and build habits that support long-term success in the field. Sustainable practice is not about occasional self-care. It is about understanding our limits, advocating for support, and creating conditions that allow us to continue making a meaningful impact without sacrificing our own well-being. What’s Inside:  The hidden emotional labor ABA professionals carryHow boundaries support ethical and sustainable practiceStrategies for preventing burnout and protecting your energyMentioned in This Episode: Episode 233: ACT for Burnout: Strategies for BCBAs and Therapists HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram

Parent training is one of the most important parts of ABA, but it can quickly become overwhelming when families are given too much information, too many strategies, or expectations that do not fit into their daily lives. In this conversation, we share practical ways to make parent coaching more supportive, effective, and sustainable. We discuss the importance of listening first, identifying meaningful family goals, and focusing on one or two priorities at a time. Rather than expecting parents to implement complex programs, we explore how to teach skills that fit naturally into routines like mealtimes, transitions, and bedtime. We also talk about using behavioral skills training with parents, reducing jargon, creating quick wins, and recognizing signs of overwhelm before frustration sets in. Parent coaching works best when it is collaborative, flexible, and centered on what matters most to each family. When we focus on building confidence instead of perfection, parents are more likely to feel empowered, supported, and successful as they develop new skills alongside their children. What’s Inside:  How to prioritize meaningful parent goals without creating overwhelmWays to teach skills within everyday family routinesStrategies for building parent confidence through collaboration and quick winsMentioned in This Episode: Episode 133: The BST Model – Behavioral Skills Training HowToABA.com/join How to ABA on YouTube Find us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram