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My BCBA Life: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Circle Care Services
Welcome to My BCBA Life, the podcast by Circle Care Services, hosted by Penina. Whether you’re navigating the highs or facing the challenges of being a BCBA, this is the space for real talk and real solutions. You’re not alone—join a community of passionate BCBAs who are committed to improving the lives of others while finding fulfillment in their own journey. Let’s dive into practical strategies and insights that will help make every day more rewarding.
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The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
- Apr 7, 202628 min
The BCBA's Role as a Supervisor with Marissalyn Gonzales, BCBA
Thank you for listening!You can access .5 Supervision CEUs with the link below.Access your CEU Certificate: https://form.jotform.com/260895851418165--------------------Most BCBAs focus on technical skills, but the secret to truly empowering your team—and boosting client success—lies in soft skills. Marissalyn Gonzales, a veteran BCBA with a decade of diverse experience, reveals how authentic communication, empathy, and trust-building with RBTs and student analysts can transform your supervision approach. In this episode, you’ll discover:How to foster genuine rapport with your team by treating RBTs as humans firstPractical strategies for giving meaningful, effective feedback without the dreaded sandwich methodThe importance of active listening, remembering personal details, and showing compassion to improve motivation and performanceWhy soft skills are just as critical as clinical expertise in delivering quality ABA servicesLessons learned from traveling the country with a military spouse—and how these insights shape her supervision styleIf you’re tired of superficial supervision and want to connect more deeply with your team to elevate client outcomes, this conversation will flip your perspective on leadership in ABA. Perfect for supervisors at all levels who crave stronger relationships, better communication, and a more human-centered approach. Whether you’re a BCBA, student analyst, or aspiring supervisor, these insights will help you build trust, inspire your team, and ultimately deliver more effective therapy. Don’t miss the chance to learn from Marissalyn's real-world experiences—because in ABA, soft skills can make all the difference.--------------------00:00 Introduction and Background01:59 The Role of BCBAs as Trainers and Supervisors04:43 Building Relationships with RBTs and Student Analysts07:48 The Importance of Soft Skills in ABA10:41 Feedback and Communication Strategies13:36 Navigating Challenges in the Field16:47 Final Thoughts and Compassion in ABA
- Mar 3, 202651 min
PDA Isn’t Defiance with Kaitlin Wilder
Thank you for listening!You can access .5 Ethics CEUs with the link below.CEU Links: https://form.jotform.com/260484210616148----------------What if the “noncompliance” you’re seeing isn’t defiance at all—but a nervous system that genuinely can’t handle one more demand? In this episode, we sit down with behavior analyst and ACT-based coach Kaitlin Wilder to rethink PDA, pressure, and what actually helps kids (and clinicians) move forward.Key Questions Explored in the Episode:What is PDA, and why do some people prefer “pervasive drive for autonomy” over “pathological demand avoidance”?Why do traditional reinforcement systems often backfire with PDA profiles?What does “it’s a can’t, not a won’t” actually look like in real life?What is “demand energy,” and how do kids detect it instantly?How does ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) fit into ABA work—especially in schools?Kaitlin Wilder shares her background as a school-based behavior analyst and special education teacher, describing how “real life” school environments often make even the best plans fall apart. She explains how burnout, anxiety, and an identity built around overworking eventually led her to take FMLA during COVID—and how learning ACT helped her shift from external behavior control to internal flexibility and values-based action.The conversation then turns to PDA: what it is, why the label is contentious, and why it’s often experienced as “a can’t, not a won’t.” Kaitlin describes how PDA strategies can start as social avoidance tactics and escalate when the child feels unheard or pressured—especially when adults rely on authority, charts, and consequences. She emphasizes that compassion and presence matter, but warns that “the next step” mindset can itself become a demand. ACT, she argues, is uniquely suited here because it centers the person’s experience, language, and values—helping them untangle anxiety-driven avoidance loops and build committed action that comes from within.About The Guest:Kaitlin Wilder is a behavior analyst with 15 years of experience across school-based roles, including special education teaching and district behavior support. She now runs Wild Sub Behavior, integrating ACT-informed coaching and direct clinical work—especially with complex cases—focused on psychological flexibility, autonomy-supportive practice, and sustainable change for neurodivergent individuals and the professionals who support them.Time Stamps:00:00 Kaitlin’s 15-year journey in ABA + school-based reality10:45 Burnout, COVID pressure, and taking FMLA12:36 Discovering ACT, leaving public school, starting a coaching business14:43 Introducing PDA topic + “lived experience” emphasis15:37 PDA language: “pathological demand avoidance” vs “pervasive drive for autonomy”18:46 Real-life school example: escalation, overwhelm, “nothing works”22:04 “It’s a can’t, not a won’t” + shifting perspective29:06 “Demand energy” + why “next step” can become the demand32:39 Anxiety as future-focused planning that drives avoidance35:45 ACT as neuroaffirming and person-centered—treating the child like a real client42:35 PDA community distrust of ABA + need for affirming practice49:25 Teacher training + burnout + self-work as the missing ingredient52:49 Closing message: confidence as freedom from needing to be “right”Links for the Guest:Connect with Kaitlin Wilder: wildsidebehaviorcoaching@gmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/kaitlinwilderherehttps://www.instagram.com/kaitlinwilderherehttps://www.linkin.com/in/kaitlinwilderhereReady to shift from “How do I make them comply?” to “How do I reduce pressure and build real flexibility?”Tune in to the full episode for practical insights on PDA, ACT, and creating change that actually lasts.
- Feb 19, 202631 min
Supporting siblings of Children with Autism with Kayla Paquette
Thank you for listening!You can access .5 Ethics CEUs with the link below.CEU Links: https://form.jotform.com/260343839957066----------------What is it really like to grow up as the sibling of a child with autism, and are we paying enough attention to their experience?In this episode we explore the often unseen emotional world of siblings and what families and professionals can do to better support them.Key Questions Explored in the Episode:What challenges do siblings of children with autism commonly face?How can parents balance intensive care needs while nurturing their other children?What practical tools help siblings feel seen, validated, and supported?How can conversations about autism be handled in age appropriate, empowering ways?What strengths and positives can emerge from growing up alongside a neurodivergent sibling?Todays guest is Kayla Paquette, a BCBA who recently launched her own private practice. The focus is on the sibling experience in families raising a child with autism. Kayla highlights how siblings often carry invisible stressors, including social pressure and emotional displacement, while sometimes being placed in caregiving roles.The conversation shifts toward actionable guidance for parents and clinicians. Kayla emphasizes intentional one on one time, validating complex emotions, avoiding comparisons, and fostering open dialogue. The episode closes by reframing the sibling experience to include its powerful strengths such as empathy, resilience, and deep emotional awareness.About The Guest:Kayla Paquette is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with seven years of experience in ABA. She recently launched her own private practice providing in home, school, and daycare ABA services, as well as community based social skills and enrichment groups. She also offers photo shoot support packages for families and travel consulting. Kayla is the author of the children’s book “Sometimes It’s Hard,” written to help siblings of children with autism feel seen and understood.Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction and CEU information 02:30 Meet Kayla Paquette and her private practice 08:15 The overlooked experience of siblings 18:40 Social stress and caregiver roles 27:10 Practical strategies for parents 36:25 Introducing the book “Sometimes It’s Hard” 44:50 The positive impact on siblingsReady to better support the siblings in your families and caseloads?Tune in to the full episode for practical strategies, emotional insight, and meaningful tools you can implement right away.
- Jan 27, 202634 min
Preparing to be the Right Person for the Job With Meaghan Timko, BCBA
Thank you for listening!You can access .5 Ethics CEUs with the link below.CEU Links: https://forms.clickup.com/14171965/f/dgftx-79217/2BRWARRQHOEBNOY35R?Type%20of%20CEU%27s=.5%20BACB%20Ethics%20CEUs&Instructor=Meaghan%20Timko,%20BCBA---------------What does it really take to lead effectively in the world of ABA without burning out? In this episode, we explore how intentional leadership and clear priorities can help BCBAs build meaningful careers while protecting their personal lives.Key Questions Explored in the Episode:What qualities matter most when hiring and developing ABA professionals?How does passion influence long-term success in the ABA field?What leadership skills are essential beyond clinical expertise?How can BCBAs realistically maintain work-life balance in demanding roles?In this episode of My BCBA Life Meaghan Timko, Chief Operating Officer at Gradual Behavioral Health joins to share her path through the ABA field and the lessons she learned transitioning into leadership.The conversation focuses on hiring and workforce development, emphasizing the importance of passion, alignment, and transparency when building teams. Meaghan explains why technical competence alone is not enough and how strong leadership depends on communication and genuine care.The episode concludes with a discussion on work-life balance. Meaghan outlines how she sets priorities, creates boundaries, and makes intentional time for family and personal interests, offering realistic guidance for long-term sustainability.About The Guest:Meaghan Timko is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and the Chief Operating Officer at Gradual Behavioral Health. She brings extensive experience in both clinical practice and organizational leadership, with a strong focus on people-centered systems and sustainable growth.Time Stamps:00:00 Introduction to BCBA Life Circle00:47 Meet Meaghan Timko: A Journey in ABA01:53 The Right Person for the Job02:24 Hiring and Workforce Development in ABA03:43 The Importance of Passion in ABA11:27 Leadership and Soft Skills in ABA25:34 Work-Life Balance for BCBAs32:35 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysReady to grow as a leader without sacrificing balance?Tune in to the full episode for practical insights and real-world perspective.
- Dec 9, 202531 min
Preparing to handle Loss and Grief with Tricia Lund
Thank you for listening!You can access .5 Learning CEUs with the link below.CEU Links: https://forms.clickup.com/14171965/f/dgftx-79257/A527DD1MQ0BE474BAD?Type%20of%20CEU%27s=.5%20BACB%20Learning%20CEUs&Instructor=Patricia%20Lund,%20BCBAHow do you support a child or adult with disabilities through death and loss when many of us are uncomfortable talking about it ourselves? In this episode of My BCBA Life, Penina sits down with BCBA and thanatology specialist Tricia Lund to unpack how grief shows up for neurodivergent individuals and what BCBAs can realistically and ethically do to help.Tricia Lund is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with approximately 10 years of experience. She began her career working in schools and clinics and now primarily supports teens and adults with disabilities living in group homes and day habilitation programs in Texas. Recognizing a major gap in how our field addresses death and grief, she pursued additional certification in thanatology, allowing her to integrate evidence-based principles about death, dying, and bereavement into her ABA practice while remaining solidly within scope.Key Takeaways:Grief is not “less real” for people with disabilities; their grief is often ignored or minimized, which can complicate the grieving process and increase distress.Understanding death requires grasping its permanence, universality, biological basis, and causation; many clients with cognitive differences need explicit teaching and support in these areas.Start early: use neutral, everyday examples (plants, animals, media) to introduce concepts of life and death and to build accurate, concrete language (including on AAC devices).Primary losses (the person who died) often create a cascade of secondary losses (home, routine, transportation, community, financial freedom) that can be even more impactful in daily life.BCBAs can stay within scope by focusing on education and participation, modifying environments, supporting involvement in rituals, and collaborating with counselors and spiritual leaders for deeper grief work.00:00 - How the topic of death and grief emerged in her practice03:06 – What thanatology is and why a BCBA would pursue it05:13 – How children (and many adults) understand death, and the core concepts needed06:32 – Permanence, universality, and biology of death; cultural and media distortions07:30 – Causation and how cognitive level affects grief responses and timing11:02 – Disenfranchised grief and how society minimizes certain losses12:18 – Why people with disabilities are often excluded from funerals and rituals14:01 – When to start talking about death with children: “Do it now” and how14:29 – Building vocabulary, using real-life examples, and correcting media myths16:39 – What to prioritize immediately after a loss: safety, stability, and presence20:03 – Grief reactions vs. “problem behaviors” and why punishment is harmful21:52 – Primary vs. secondary losses and how BCBAs can address the secondary ones24:47 – Scope of practice: education and participation vs. facilitation and intervention27:34 – Why this work is needed for “typical” adults as well, not just clients28:30 – Using clear language (“dead,” “death,” “dying”) instead of euphemisms29:22 – Addressing your own death-avoidance so you can better support clientsReady to rethink how you, as a BCBA or caregiver, approach death, loss, and grief with the individuals you support?Tune in to the full episode for practical frameworks, compassionate strategies, and a fresh perspective on staying within scope while truly showing up for your clients.
- Nov 4, 202537 min
Quality and Grace in ABA with Jesica Peterson
Thank you for listening!You can access .5 Learning CEUs with the link below.CEU Links: https://forms.clickup.com/14171965/f/dgftx-72637/G9OX191GE40IEG4RBB?Type%20of%20CEU%27s=.5%20BACB%20Ethics%20CEUs&Instructor=Jesica%20Peterson,%20BCBAHow do you deliver high-quality ABA without burning out—and without losing the heart? In this conversation, Jesica Peterson, BCBA and founder of Graceful Behavior Solutions, shares how “quality” and “grace” guide her practice with families, RBTs, and kids.Discussion Points:The “click” moment: from tough first cases to first words and real progressDefining and protecting quality: staffing, training, CE, and ethical practiceGrace in practice: meeting parents where they are, flexibility over rigidityParent training that lands: roles, language, pacing, and checking capacityContinuous learning: revisiting core trainings and avoiding stagnationFamily-centered care and the goal of “working yourself out of a job”Jesica traces her journey from RBT to BCBA and the early case that taught her perseverance and the power of meaningful progress. She unpacks her two core values—quality and grace—and shows how they shape everything from RBT training and clinic standards to flexible, human parent training that meets families where they are. We hear practical ways to avoid burnout by focusing on staff development, revisiting foundational trainings, reading body language, and pacing sessions to a parent’s capacity. Jesica explains why family-centered care improves outcomes and why the true success metric is helping families no longer need intensive support.About The Guest:Jesica Peterson, BCBA, has worked across home, clinic, and adult crisis settings since 2018. A prior military family member with experience in diverse communities, she founded Graceful Behavior Solutions, a practice grounded in the values of quality and grace.Time Stamps:00:00 Jesica’s path into ABA02:34 The challenging early client and the breakthrough moment04:41 Values that guide practice: quality and grace07:04 What “quality” looks like: staffing, training, CE, ethics09:56 Keeping learning alive; revisiting foundational trainings13:10 Practicing “grace” with families and teams17:22 What doesn’t work in parent training20:24 How Jessica opens the first parent training and defines roles23:34 Addressing fears and misconceptions about ABA26:0 Remembering parents are “in the trenches”29:07 Reading body language and pacing sessions32:08 Family-centered care and real-life outcomes35:46 Parting advice: anchor to your valuesReady to bring more quality and grace into your ABA work?Tune in to the full episode for practical, compassionate strategies you can use today.
- Sep 16, 202534 min
School Collaboration with Samantha
Thank you for listening!You can access .5 Learning CEUs with the link below.CEU Links: https://forms.clickup.com/14171965/f/dgftx-65817/3MXDBM3V50ACY20NGN?Type%20of%20CEU%27s=.5%20BACB%20Learning%20CEUs&Instructor=Samantha%20Alba,%20BCBAHow do you build true collaboration with schools so your learner thrives in every setting? In this episode of My BCBA Life, Penina talks with Samantha, a Circle Care–exclusive BCBA with deep school-based experience, about practical ways BCBAs can partner with teachers and related service providers, support parents through IEPs, and bridge home–school skill generalization.Discussion PointsEntering schools with humility: observing first, understanding dynamics, and making your presence supportive (not disruptive).Pairing with educators and therapists; leading with non-judgmental curiosity to build buy-in.Interdisciplinary respect: learning from OT, SLP, and PT approaches (e.g., addressing sensory needs and functional replacements).Home ↔ school collaboration for faster progress and generalization (communication, social skills, and behavior plans).Practical IEP support for parents: where BCBAs can add value, aligning goals, and wording effective behavioral/communication targets.Consent, boundaries, and tactful outreach to school teams.Helpful resources BCBAs can use in school settings (NJ best practices, PBIS World, peer workgroups).Samantha shares how starting with listening, pairing, and empathy lays the groundwork for productive school collaboration. She describes concrete strategies for working with diverse school teams and highlights the power of interdisciplinary learning—like using OT-informed sensory replacements (obstacle courses, carrying weighted items) for automatically reinforced behaviors. For home-based BCBAs, she explains why school collaboration still matters: it reveals progress, gaps, and ready-made interventions to generalize at home. On IEPs, Samantha suggests focusing on the social/emotional/behavioral goal section and aligning it with real data and parent priorities (e.g., adding a manding component to toileting). She closes with resources that make school work more effective and less isolating.About The GuestSamantha is a BCBA with a master’s in Cognitive Science & Education who completed the ABA verified course sequence. She’s worked extensively in school settings (and school-adjacent roles like curriculum writing) and currently serves Circle Care home cases, integrating school goals and approaches to accelerate learner progress across environments.Time Stamps Samantha’s path into ABA and school-based work Choosing BCBA over school psychology; ABA track in grad school ABA as “common sense” applied—why it resonates with teams and parents Today’s focus: collaborating with school personnel What collaboration looks like: observe, understand roles, pair with staff Being a positive presence and earning buy-in before giving feedback Non-judgmental coaching to avoid defensiveness Working with OTs/SLPs/PTs; honoring different evidence-based approaches OT insights on sensory needs; functional replacements (obstacle courses, weighted carries) Why collaborate when you’re home-based; get the IEP and compare data Aligning behavior plans and social skills across settings for generalization Efficiency and parent assurance when teams are aligned Humility and teamwork mindset that centers the child Coaching parents on IEPs; goal wording (e.g., adding manding to toileting goals) How and when to initiate school contact; consent and tact Joining IEP meetings: when it helps; reading vs. attending Parent overwhelm, advocacy, and resources Why learners can look different at school vs. home; designing play-based home programs Resource roundup: NJ best practices, NJ ABA school workgroup, PBIS WorldReady to uplevel your home–school collaboration and speed up generalization?Tune in to the full episode for practical strategies, IEP tips, and real-world examples you can use this week.
- Sep 2, 202534 min
Assent in ABA Practice with Ariana Boutain, BCBA
Thank you for listening!You can access .5 Learning CEUs with the link below.CEU Links: https://forms.clickup.com/14171965/f/dgftx-65217/JZRH1KSMZRIFSW2QF9?Type%20of%20CEU%27s=.5%20BACB%20Learning%20CEUs&Instructor=Ariana%20Boutain,%20BCBAWhat happens when we shift from compliance to collaboration in ABA therapy? In this episode of MY BCBA Life, host Penina sits down with Ariana Boutain, Chief Clinical Officer at Atlanta Autism Center, to explore the emerging model of ascent-based ABA and its powerful impact on therapy outcomes.Discussion Points:Ariana’s 20-year journey from therapist to Chief Clinical OfficerThe meaning and importance of ascent in ABA practiceStrategies for handling resistance while honoring client choiceBuilding trust and meaningful connections with young clientsThe role of parents in supporting ascent-based interventionsPenina and Ariana unpack the principles of ascent-based ABA, a compassionate model that prioritizes client voice and autonomy in therapy. Ariana shares stories from her professional journey, emphasizing how honoring ascent not only respects the dignity of clients but also leads to deeper engagement and more effective learning. They discuss practical strategies for implementing this approach, the critical role of trust, and how parental involvement can enhance outcomes. The episode highlights a shift in ABA toward greater compassion, collaboration, and respect for individuality.About The Guest:Ariana Boutain is the Chief Clinical Officer at Atlanta Autism Center and has worked in the field of ABA for over 20 years. With a passion for early intervention and compassionate care, Ariana advocates for approaches that empower clients and families while advancing effective, ethical practice.Time Stamps: Introduction and Surprise Words Guest Introduction: Ariana’s Journey Passion for Early Intervention Understanding Ascent in ABA Challenges and Strategies in Ascent-Based Therapy Building Relationships and Trust Parental Involvement and PerspectivesReady to explore how ascent-based ABA can transform therapy outcomes?Tune in to the full episode for insights on building trust, honoring autonomy, and creating meaningful learning experiences.
About My BCBA Life
Welcome to My BCBA Life, the podcast by Circle Care Services, hosted by Penina. Whether you’re navigating the highs or facing the challenges of being a BCBA, this is the space for real talk and real solutions. You’re not alone—join a community of passionate BCBAs who are committed to improving the lives of others while finding fulfillment in their own journey. Let’s dive into practical strategies and insights that will help make every day more rewarding.
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