Autistic Voices Inside ABA: The Conversation the Field Needs

In this episode, Samantha and Reux—autistic adults working in applied behavior analysis—share their personal journeys from diagnosis to professional life. They reflect on early employment challenges, the critical role of workplace support, and why autistic voices matter in the field. Their stories offer hope to families, guidance for new behavior technicians, and a powerful reminder of the independence and success autistic individuals can achieve.

View the transcript, show notes, and previous episodes at: https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/autistic-voices-in-aba-the-conversation-the-field-needs

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral.

Meet Michael Maloney, Founder and CEO of LEARN Behavioral

Michael Maloney, Founder and CEO of LEARN Behavioral, joins us to share about his early career in education and how a small consulting company grew into an organization that now provides autism services in over 17 states (23 with LEARN Academy). In this conversation, we also explore his insights about the changing landscape of services for families. Michael shares, “In the last ten to twelve years, there has been an absolute sea change. When we started, four states covered services, and now all 50 do. Parents often had to pay out of pocket, and few could afford to. The financial burden has lessened so significantly because of the growing awareness and advocacy.”

Watch the video interview at www.allautismtalk.com.

What is the WIBA ABA Conference?

The WIBA Conference, short for Women in Behavior Analysis, is the only annual conference in the ABA field dedicated to empowering, celebrating, and mentoring women in behavior analysis and highlighting their contributions to the discipline. Founded in 2017, WIBA has grown into one of the most distinctive and community-driven events on the ABA conference calendar.

Each year, the WIBA Conference brings together BCBAs, researchers, educators, students, and allies from across the behavior analysis community to engage in meaningful dialogue on gender equality, professional development, mentorship, and the advancement of the field.

What sets WIBA apart is its dual purpose: to advance behavior analysis as a science and to actively address the underrepresentation and underrecognition of women within it. The conference is open to all genders and is designed to be an inclusive forum where every attendee, whether a seasoned clinician, a graduate student, or an organizational leader, feels seen, supported, and inspired.

When is the WIBA Conference?

The WIBA Conference is typically held each summer, most often in July. The event rotates among cities across the United States. Attendees are encouraged to check the official WIBA events page for the most current schedule, registration details, and hotel booking information.

WIBA is offered as a hybrid event, with both in-person attendance and a live virtual stream available each year. On-demand access is also included, allowing attendees to engage with sessions at their own pace after the event.

2026 WIBA Conference: Chicago, Illinois

July 15–17, 2026 | Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk

The 9th Annual WIBA Conference will be held July 15–17, 2026, at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk in Chicago, Illinois. The conference is a hybrid event, offering both in-person attendance and a full virtual livestream for those who cannot travel.

This year’s program will highlight prominent women in behavior analysis while addressing the importance of gender equality and diversity within the field. Through engaging presentations, meaningful discussions, and structured opportunities for connection, the 2026 WIBA Conference creates space for learning, leadership, and shared progress.

2026 WIBA Hotel and Accommodations

The 2026 WIBA Conference is hosted at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk in Chicago, Illinois. The WIBA discounted room rate is available through June 20, 2026. Rooms are expected to sell out, and early booking is strongly recommended. A hotel booking link is provided through the official registration process at thewiba.com.

Registration for the 2026 WIBA Conference

Registration is available both in-person and online. Registration tiers are offered at the same price and include on-demand access and continuing education units (CEUs).

Continuing Education at the 2026 WIBA Conference

WIBA offers both CEUs and professional development units (PDUs) with all registration packages. CEU and PDU access is included for both in-person and virtual attendees, as well as through on-demand viewing after the conference.

Find the Next Step in Your ABA Career

Discover rewarding BCBA career opportunities at LEARN Behavioral.

What Does LEARN Behavioral Do at WIBA?

LEARN Behavioral participates in the WIBA Conference as a supporter of professional development and community in the ABA field. The LEARN team attends the conference each year to engage with the conversations shaping the future of behavior analysis, particularly those focused on mentorship, leadership, and inclusion, and to connect with the talented clinicians and researchers who make up the WIBA community.

At the WIBA Conference, LEARN Behavioral typically:

  • Connects with BCBAs, students, and early career professionals who are passionate about growing in the field
  • Engages with sessions focused on mentorship, leadership development, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in ABA practice
  • Supports career development opportunities for women and allies who want to build meaningful careers within a national ABA organization
  • Participates in community-building events that align with LEARN’s commitment to inclusion and belonging across its clinical teams
  • Explores research and best practices that can be applied to LEARN’s work with children and families across the country

LEARN Behavioral’s participation in WIBA reflects its belief that a stronger, more equitable field of behavior analysis is better for the professionals who work in it and the children and families they serve.

Who Attends the WIBA Conference?

The WIBA Conference draws a wide and diverse audience united by a shared interest in advancing behavior analysis and championing equity within the field. Attendees typically include:

  • Board certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) and BCBA-Ds
  • Board certified assistant behavior analysts (BCaBAs)
  • Registered behavior technicians (RBTs)
  • Graduate students and doctoral candidates
  • University faculty and researchers
  • Early career professionals seeking mentorship and community
  • Organizational leaders and clinical directors at ABA therapy organizations
  • Allies of all genders committed to gender equity in behavior analysis
  • Advocates and professionals working at the intersection of ABA and social justice

While WIBA was founded to address the specific experience of women in behavior analysis, the conference is explicitly open to and welcoming of attendees of all genders. Allies play an important role in the WIBA community, and the conference is designed to foster dialogue that benefits the entire field.

Start a Meaningful Career in ABA

Interested in a career helping children with autism? Discover rewarding ABA career opportunities.

Topics Discussed at the WIBA Conference

The WIBA Conference program spans clinical science, professional development, and social dialogue, with presentations, workshops, poster sessions, and mentoring opportunities woven throughout the schedule. Presentations are selected through a blind review process, and all invited speakers receive equal compensation; there are no keynote hierarchies at WIBA.

Key topics consistently featured at the WIBA Conference include:

  • Highlighting the contributions of prominent and historically underrecognized women in behavior analysis
  • Gender equity, representation, and leadership in the field
  • Mentorship for early-career professionals and students
  • Organizational behavior management (OBM) and leadership development
  • Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in clinical practice and research
  • Social justice and culturally responsive behavior analysis
  • Research trends and innovations in the field
  • Professional development and career navigation for behavior analysts
  • Work-life balance and burnout prevention for clinicians
  • Ethics in research and practice
  • Intersectionality and identity in the behavior analysis community
  • Recognition and preservation of the field’s female founding voices

Why Should You Attend the WIBA Conference?

Whether you are an experienced BCBA, a graduate student just entering the field, or a clinical leader at an ABA organization, the WIBA Conference offers something that no other ABA event does. Specific reasons to attend include:

  • Experience the only ABA conference built around gender equity, mentorship, and women’s leadership in the field
  • Earn CEUs and PDUs included with all registration packages, in-person and virtual
  • Participate in formal mentorship sessions connecting early career professionals with established leaders in behavior analysis
  • Network with thousands of BCBAs, researchers, educators, and students who share your values
  • Engage with research and presentations selected through a blind review process for rigor and fairness
  • Access sessions on-demand after the conference, making it easy to revisit content at your own pace
  • Join a community that extends beyond the conference through WIBA Skool, the organization’s year-round online platform
  • Attend in person in Chicago or join virtually from anywhere in the world

Highlights from Past WIBA Conferences

Since its inaugural conference in 2017, WIBA has grown from a grassroots gathering into one of the most impactful and widely attended events in the ABA calendar. Over nearly a decade, it has accumulated more than 4,000 in-person and online attendees, 648 presentations, 453 presenters, and 85 mentorship sessions.

Past WIBA Conference highlights include:

  • The launch of the WIBA Hall of Fame in 2021, dedicated to honoring the female pioneers whose contributions to behavior analysis have often gone unrecognized, with inaugural inductees including Eve Segal, Bea Barrett, Martha Bernal, and Judith Favell
  • Annual formal mentorship sessions pairing early career professionals and students with established leaders in the field, including invited speakers and advisory board members
  • Expert panel sessions where advisory board members and invited speakers answer attendee questions and share professional advice
  • Presentations by world-renowned behavior analysts, including Linda LeBlanc, PhD, BCBA-D, and other leaders on the WIBA Advisory Board
  • Scholarship programs designed to reduce financial barriers and expand access to the conference for underrepresented professionals
  • A growing emphasis on intersectionality, social justice, and culturally responsive behavior analysis
  • The development of WIBA Skool, an online community platform that keeps the WIBA experience alive year-round between annual conferences

WIBA Conference Key Takeaways

  • The WIBA Conference is the only annual event in the ABA field dedicated to empowering, celebrating, and mentoring women in behavior analysis
  • WIBA was founded in 2017 and has grown to engage thousands of attendees, presenters, and mentors across its history
  • The 9th Annual WIBA Conference will be held July 15–17, 2026, at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, with in-person and virtual attendance options
  • The conference is open to attendees of all genders and is designed as an inclusive forum for advancing equity and excellence in the field
  • CEUs and PDUs are included with all registration packages, in-person and online
  • Topics span gender equity, mentorship, DEI, leadership, OBM, clinical trends, and the recognition of women’s historic contributions to behavior analysis
  • LEARN Behavioral participates in WIBA each year as a member of the ABA community committed to inclusion, mentorship, and professional development

FAQs: What People Ask About the WIBA Conference

Is the WIBA Conference only for women?

No. While WIBA was founded to highlight the accomplishments of women in behavior analysis and address gender equity in the field, the conference is explicitly open to attendees of all genders. Allies play a central role in the WIBA community, and the conference welcomes anyone committed to advancing gender equality and inclusive practice in behavior analysis.

When was WIBA founded?

WIBA was founded in 2017 by Devon Sundberg, MS, BCBA, and Kimberly Zoder-Martell, PhD, BCBA-D. The idea originated while both were involved in organizing a state-level ABA conference and recognized the lack of female representation among invited speakers at ABA events. The inaugural WIBA Conference was held that year to highlight women’s accomplishments in the field and create space for mentorship and gender equity dialogue.

Who founded WIBA?

WIBA was co-founded by Devon Sundberg, MS, BCBA, and Kimberly Zoder-Martell, PhD, BCBA-D. Devon Sundberg serves as Executive Director and Conference Director. Janet Lund, PhD, BCBA-D, currently leads the organization, and WIBA’s Advisory Board includes Linda LeBlanc, PhD, BCBA-D, Chata Dickson, PhD, BCBA-D, Patricia Wright, PhD, BCBA-D, Adrienne Bradley, MEd, BCBA, and Bruce Tinor, PhD, BCBA.

What is the WIBA Hall of Fame?

The WIBA Hall of Fame was established in 2021 to honor women who have made outstanding contributions to the field of behavior analysis, particularly those whose work has been historically overlooked or underrecognized. Inductees are selected annually and recognized at the WIBA Conference. The inaugural Hall of Fame class included Eve Segal, Bea Barrett, Martha Bernal, and Judith Favell. Induction profiles are published annually in the journal Behavior Analysis in Practice.

What is WIBA Skool?

WIBA Skool is WIBA’s year-round online community platform where behavior analysts, students, and allies can stay connected between annual conferences. It functions as a private professional community (without ads) where members can share resources, engage in discussions, and maintain the momentum and connections built at the WIBA Conference. WIBA Skool is separate from and complementary to the annual in-person and virtual event.

Does WIBA offer scholarships?

Yes. WIBA offers scholarships designed to reduce financial barriers and make the conference more accessible to professionals who might otherwise not be able to attend. Scholarship opportunities are announced through WIBA’s official channels. The organization is committed to expanding access to underrepresented professionals and prioritizes inclusion in its scholarship and speaker selection processes.

What types of continuing education does WIBA offer?

WIBA provides both continuing education units (CEUs) and professional development units (PDUs) as part of all registration packages. This makes WIBA one of the few ABA conferences to offer PDUs alongside BACB-relevant CEUs, extending its value to a broader range of professionals in education, leadership, and adjacent fields. CEUs and PDUs are available to both in-person and virtual attendees, as well as to those who view on-demand sessions.

How is the WIBA Conference different from ABAI or CalABA?

ABAI and CalABA are broad-scope conferences covering the full range of behavior analysis science, research, and clinical practice. WIBA has a distinct and focused mission: advancing gender equity in behavior analysis, mentoring women and early career professionals, and recognizing the historic and ongoing contributions of women in the field. It is the only ABA conference where gender equity and women’s leadership are central to the entire program, not just a track or a session, but the organizing principle of the event itself.

What is the MassABA Annual Conference?

The MassABA Annual Conference is the flagship event of the Massachusetts Association for Applied Behavior Analysis (MassABA), a trade organization representing the interests of behavior analysts across the Commonwealth. Founded in 2010, MassABA is an affiliated chapter of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and is dedicated to providing educational opportunities and advocacy for professionals who provide behavior-analytic services in any capacity.

Each year, the MassABA Annual Conference brings together behavior analysts, educators, researchers, and ABA service providers from across Massachusetts and beyond for a full day of professional development, continuing education, and community. The conference is the signature connection between MassABA and its more than 1,100 members — and has historically drawn over 700 participants.

Massachusetts is home to one of the highest concentrations of certified behavior analysts per capita in the world, with more than 4,500 BACB-certificants in the Commonwealth. The MassABA Annual Conference reflects the depth of the professional community, offering a focused, content-rich event that speaks directly to the issues shaping ABA practice in Massachusetts.

When is the MassABA Annual Conference?

The MassABA Annual Conference is typically held each spring, most often in May. The event is generally held at the Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel and Trade Center in Marlborough, Massachusetts, a centrally located venue accessible from Boston and across the Commonwealth. 

Attendees are encouraged to check the official MassABA events page for the most current schedule and registration details.

Find the Next Step in Your ABA Career

Discover rewarding BCBA career opportunities at LEARN Behavioral.

What Does LEARN Behavioral Do at MassABA?

LEARN Behavioral participates in the MassABA Annual Conference as part of its commitment to the behavior analysis community in Massachusetts and the broader New England region. The LEARN team attends the conference each year to engage with the clinical, legislative, and professional issues shaping ABA practice in the Commonwealth, connect with fellow providers, and contribute to the community of behavior analysts who serve children and families across Massachusetts.

At the MassABA Annual Conference, LEARN Behavioral typically:

  • Connects with BCBAs, educators, and ABA service providers across Massachusetts to share insights and best practices
  • Engages with sessions focused on Massachusetts-specific legislative updates, insurance policy, and licensure
  • Explores emerging research and clinical practice developments relevant to LEARN’s work with children with autism
  • Supports career development opportunities for behavior analysts seeking to grow within a national ABA organization
  • Participates in exhibiting and networking opportunities to share LEARN’s services and clinical approach with the Massachusetts ABA community

LEARN Behavioral’s involvement in the MassABA Annual Conference reflects its commitment to being an active, contributing member of the behavior analysis community in every state where it operates — not just a service provider, but a genuine participant in the professional ecosystem.

Who Attends the MassABA Annual Conference?

The MassABA Annual Conference draws a broad cross-section of the Massachusetts behavior analysis community. Attendees typically include:

  • Licensed applied behavior analysts (LABAs) practicing in Massachusetts
  • Board certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) and BCBA-Ds
  • Board certified assistant behavior analysts (BCaBAs)
  • Registered behavior technicians (RBTs)
  • BCBAs working in public school settings across the Commonwealth
  • Graduate students and doctoral candidates in ABA programs
  • University faculty and researchers
  • ABA therapy organizations and autism service providers
  • Special education teachers and school administrators
  • Advocates and policy professionals engaged with Massachusetts ABA legislation
  • Representatives from insurance companies and state agencies involved in ABA coverage

MassABA’s membership structure includes full members (licensed applied behavior analysts in Massachusetts), associate members (practitioners from other states, related professionals, and family or community members), and student members, making the conference welcoming to professionals at every stage of their career.

Start a Meaningful Career in ABA

Interested in a career helping children with autism? Discover rewarding ABA career opportunities.

Topics Discussed at the MassABA Annual Conference

What makes the MassABA Annual Conference distinct from broader national events is its grounding in the specific legislative, regulatory, and clinical realities of practicing behavior analysis in Massachusetts. Sessions consistently address the issues that matter most to BCBAs and ABA organizations operating in the Commonwealth.

Key topics consistently featured at the MassABA Annual Conference include:

  • Massachusetts LABA licensure updates and the independent licensing board
  • Insurance coverage requirements and advocacy for ABA services in the Commonwealth
  • Compliance, audits, recoupments, and fraud prevention for ABA providers
  • ABA in public school settings and supports for BCBAs working in Massachusetts school districts
  • Evidence-based intervention and clinical best practices
  • Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in behavior analysis
  • Ethics in ABA practice and supervision
  • Telehealth delivery of ABA services and insurance coverage updates
  • Research trends and innovations across autism services
  • Staff supervision, training, and workforce development
  • Expanding access to ABA services for people of all ages and abilities in Massachusetts

Past featured presenters have included nationally recognized figures such as Dr. Robert Horner, Alumni-Knight Endowed Professor of Special Education, alongside Massachusetts-based clinicians and policy experts who have addressed the most pressing issues facing local practitioners.

Why Should You Attend the MassABA Annual Conference?

For behavior analysts and ABA professionals practicing in Massachusetts, the MassABA Annual Conference offers a level of local relevance and practical applicability that broad national conferences cannot replicate. Specific reasons to attend include:

  • Stay current on Massachusetts-specific licensure, insurance, and legislative developments that affect your practice
  • Earn CEUs included with your registration at no additional cost
  • Connect with over 700 fellow behavior analysts and ABA professionals from across the Commonwealth
  • Engage with sessions on public school ABA, a unique and growing area of practice in Massachusetts
  • Explore exhibitor and sponsor opportunities relevant to the Massachusetts ABA market
  • Participate in a focused, single-day format designed to fit the schedule of working clinicians
  • Contribute to the advocacy efforts that shape the future of ABA practice in Massachusetts

Highlights from Past MassABA Conferences

Since its founding in 2010, MassABA has built a track record of delivering a high-quality annual conference that addresses the issues facing behavior analysts in Massachusetts. Consistently drawing more than 700 attendees, the conference has evolved alongside the Commonwealth’s ABA community.

Past MassABA Annual Conference highlights include:

  • Sessions on Massachusetts insurance mandate laws and ABA coverage, including practical guidance on responding to recoupments, audits, and fraud investigations
  • Featured presentations from nationally recognized researchers and clinicians, including Dr. Robert Horner of the University of Oregon
  • Updates from MassABA’s legislative committee on the ongoing effort to create an independent licensing board for behavior analysts in Massachusetts
  • Dedicated content for BCBAs working in public school districts, addressing some of the most complex and underserved practice contexts in the Commonwealth
  • DEIB-focused programming and MassABA’s active Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging committee initiatives
  • Continuing education (CE) series and workshops on successful ABA service delivery, telehealth, and expanding access to services

MassABA Annual Conference Key Takeaways

  • The MassABA Annual Conference is the signature annual event of the Massachusetts Association for Applied Behavior Analysis, serving more than 1,100 members and drawing over 700 attendees each spring
  • MassABA was founded in 2010 and is an affiliated chapter of ABAI, with a mission to support the science and practice of behavior analysis in Massachusetts
  • The one-day format delivers a focused, high-value experience, including keynote programming, exhibiting, networking, and CEUs included with registration
  • Topics reflect the specific legislative, regulatory, and clinical landscape of practicing ABA in Massachusetts, including licensure, insurance, public school settings, and DEIB
  • LEARN Behavioral participates in the MassABA Annual Conference as an active member of the Massachusetts ABA community

FAQs: What People Ask About the MassABA Annual Conference

What is MassABA?

MassABA, the Massachusetts Association for Applied Behavior Analysis, is a trade organization founded in 2010 to represent the interests of behavior analysts in Massachusetts. 

It is an affiliated chapter of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and serves more than 1,100 members across the Commonwealth. MassABA advocates on legislative and insurance issues, supports professional development, and hosts an annual conference as the centerpiece of its membership community.

What is the difference between MassABA and BABAT?

Both MassABA and BABAT (Massachusetts Professionals in Behavior Analysis) are Massachusetts-based ABA organizations, but they serve distinct purposes. Many Massachusetts behavior analysts are members of both organizations. The MassABA Annual Conference is typically a single-day spring event, while BABAT’s conference spans multiple days in the fall.

MassABA functions as a trade organization focused on advocacy, licensure, and insurance policy — representing behavior analysts’ professional and regulatory interests at the state level. BABAT operates as a chapter-based professional community with a broader clinical and research focus, hosting a multi-day annual conference each fall. 

What does LABA stand for, and what does MassABA have to do with it?

LABA stands for Licensed Applied Behavior Analyst. It is the state license required to practice behavior analysis in Massachusetts. MassABA has been a leading advocate for strengthening the LABA licensure process in the Commonwealth, including ongoing efforts to establish an independent licensing board comprised exclusively of behavior analysts, rather than a multi-disciplinary board. 

The MassABA Annual Conference regularly includes sessions covering licensure updates, and MassABA works directly with state legislators on ABA-related bills.

Is MassABA affiliated with ABAI?

Yes. MassABA is an affiliated chapter of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), the world’s largest professional organization dedicated to the science and practice of behavior analysis. 

This affiliation reflects MassABA’s commitment to upholding the standards and values of the broader behavior analysis field while addressing the specific needs of behavior analysts practicing in Massachusetts.

What membership types does MassABA offer?

MassABA offers three membership levels. Full membership is available to licensed applied behavior analysts (LABAs) in Massachusetts. Associate membership is open to practicing behavior analysts who are not licensed in Massachusetts, professionals from related fields, and family or community members. 

Student membership is available for undergraduate or graduate students enrolled in ABA or related programs and is offered at a nominal annual fee. Organizations providing ABA services can become MassABA Organizational Sponsors and receive benefits, including discounted employee registrations for the annual conference and exhibitor access.

What is MassABA’s Public School Committee?

MassABA’s Public School Committee focuses specifically on the needs of BCBAs working in Massachusetts public school districts — one of the most complex and rapidly growing practice contexts in the state. 

The committee partners with ACCEPT Collaborative to host a monthly Professional Practices Symposium for behavior analysts working in public schools, running throughout the school year. 

The annual conference includes dedicated sessions addressing the unique challenges facing school-based BCBAs across the Commonwealth, including supervision structures, Individualized Education Plan (IEP) collaboration, and ethical practice in educational settings.

How does MassABA support insurance advocacy for ABA providers?

MassABA has been an active advocate for expanding and protecting insurance coverage for ABA services in Massachusetts. The organization has worked to inform its membership about ABA insurance mandate laws, the provider’s evolving role in the insurance landscape, and how to navigate audits, recoupments, and claim denials. 

It has also collaborated with state insurance representatives, BABAT, and other stakeholders to push for timely reimbursement and fair coverage standards. The annual conference regularly features sessions on insurance policy and compliance in response to member needs.

How is the MassABA Conference different from ABAI or BABAT?

The ABAI Annual Convention is a global event covering the full breadth of behavior analysis science and practice across dozens of countries. BABAT’s conference is a multi-day regional event with a strong clinical and research focus, held each fall in Massachusetts. 

The MassABA Annual Conference is a single-day spring event with a distinctly Massachusetts-centric lens, prioritizing licensure updates, state insurance policy, public school ABA, and advocacy for the Commonwealth’s behavior analyst community. It is the most locally focused ABA conference available to Massachusetts practitioners.

Unlocking Communication: The Story of PECS with Dr. Andy Bondy & Lori Frost

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Andy Bondy and his wife, Lori Frost, MS, CCC-SLP, who are the co-founders of Pyramid Educational Consultants, Inc. They’re also the creators of the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). Together, they share about the origins and updates of PECS, their work around the world, and the release of the 3rd Edition of the PECS Manual.

We explore the importance of everyday language when discussing effective teaching strategies, the power of collaborative teamwork, and the need for truly individualized support. Andy and Lori also provide a forward-looking perspective on the future of PECS and emphasize why embracing cross-cultural understanding is essential for effective communication.

Join us for this insightful conversation that offers evidence-based communication practices designed to empower parents, educators, and clinicians. 

View the transcript, show notes, and previous episodes at: https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/the-story-of-pecs

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral.

How LEARN Enhances BCBA Exam Prep with ABA Technologies

If you are pursuing psychology, education, sociology, or behavior analysis, you might be considering becoming a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA). A significant milestone on that path is passing the BCBA exam. At LEARN Behavioral, we understand how challenging this can feel and are here to support and empower you through every step. That’s why we partner with the ABA Technologies BOOST program (BOOST), a research-based online study tool. BOOST helps LEARN team members feel confident, informed, and supported while studying for the BCBA exam. 

Our partnership with BOOST gives employees access to high-quality BCBA exam prep resources. These tools help build a strong foundation of knowledge and practical skills so employees can feel prepared and ready for success. In this blog, we break down how BOOST works and how it supports our team members preparing for a career in behavior analysis. 

Understanding the BCBA Exam Structure 

If you are new to the BCBA exam, it helps to know what you are preparing for. The test includes 175 multiple-choice questions that cover essential areas like behavior assessment, teaching and intervention strategies, and professional ethics. Understanding these topics is key to building a smart, focused study plan. 

Success on the exam requires more than just memorizing facts. Candidates must also be able to apply what they learn in real-life situations. That includes designing behavior support plans, interpreting assessment data, and critically analyzing ethical dilemmas. These skills are essential for any BCBA role and are tested on the exam. 

Whether you are finishing a degree or acquiring practicum hours, it is vital to use a strategic approach to studying. LEARN’s partnership with BOOST gives team members access to structured, easy-to-use tools that support learning and confidence-building throughout the study process. 

Overview of the ABA Technologies BOOST Program 

The ABA Technologies BOOST program is an online platform for people studying for the BCBA exam. BOOST includes helpful resources like interactive lessons, practice exams, and real-time feedback. The platform also includes videos, quizzes, and case studies, making the learning experience more engaging and effective. 

What makes BOOST stand out is that it focuses not only on passing the exam but also on preparing you for the work you will do as a BCBA. The study modules are built to match the exam content and give practical examples of how to apply concepts in real-world settings. 

Many people who use BOOST share success stories about how the platform helped them feel more prepared. These stories highlight BOOST’s ability to make tough topics easier to understand and build confidence that helps people succeed. 

“I really enjoyed BOOST. It had a great combination of exactly what I needed, like mock questions and SAFMEDS. I even loved the podcasts, as they were perfect for listening to while driving and cooking.” Grace R., Behavior Analyst I

For LEARN Behavioral employees, access to BOOST is free. This program usually costs $225, but we cover that expense to support your professional growth. 

Effective Study Strategies with BOOST 

Preparing for the BCBA exam can feel overwhelming, especially if you are balancing work, school, or other responsibilities. BOOST helps reduce that pressure by offering flexible study tools that you can adjust to fit your needs. For example, it includes study plans you can personalize based on your schedule and goals. 

Whether you are just getting started or are in the final stretch of studying, BOOST helps you build a study routine that works. Tools like quizzes and real-life case examples help bring the material to life, making it easier to understand and remember key concepts. 

Time management is also a big part of doing well on the exam. BOOST includes tips on how to break study time into shorter, more focused sessions, which can help you stay energized and avoid burnout. By setting clear, manageable goals for each study session, you can track your progress and stay motivated. 

Leveraging Practice Exams for Success 

Practice exams are one of the most important parts of BCBA exam prep. These mock exams mimic the real test experience, allowing you to get comfortable with the format and pace of the actual exam. Taking practice tests can also help reduce test-day anxiety. 

LEARN includes access to high-quality practice exams through BOOST. These tests are designed to match the content and structure of the real BCBA exam, so you know exactly what to expect. 

After each practice exam, BOOST gives you feedback that helps you see where you are doing well and where you might need more review. This kind of feedback allows you to focus your energy where it counts. Over time, it helps build both knowledge and confidence. 

Additional Resources for BCBA Exam Preparation 

Preparing for the BCBA exam takes time and effort, but BOOST offers a wide range of resources to help you succeed. In addition to study guides and practice exams, you can access video lectures and interactive modules that explain complex topics in simple, clear language. 

BOOST also includes access to online forums and study communities where candidates can share tips, ask questions, and stay connected. This sense of community can be especially helpful for people who learn best by talking things through or working in groups. 

The BOOST platform is updated regularly to keep pace with the latest information in applied behavior analysis (ABA). That means you will learn the most up-to-date strategies, research, and best practices throughout your prep journey. 

As a LEARN team member, you have access to these valuable resources at no cost. It is part of our commitment to helping you not just pass the BCBA exam but also thrive in your career as a behavior analyst. 

By using BOOST and the support available at LEARN, you are not only preparing for an exam. You are also building the skills, confidence, and knowledge you need to make a lasting difference in people’s lives. 

To learn more about becoming a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) with LEARN, visit our Advance Your Career page

ABA Technologies, Inc. is a pioneering leader in applied behavior analysis education and certification support. Founded by Dr. Jose Martinez‑Diaz, Ph.D., BCBA‑D, ABA Technologies offers a comprehensive suite of services including RBT® training, BCBA® continuing education, hands-on professional development, and their renowned BOOST exam-prep programs to empower behavior analysts at every stage of their career. 

Upholding Clinical Integrity: A Cornerstone for Leadership and Clinical Practice at LEARN Behavioral

Written by Dr. Ashley Williams, Ph.D., LABA, BCBA-D, Vice President

In the realm of healthcare and behavioral sciences, integrity stands as an unwavering pillar that supports both the practitioners and the individuals seeking assistance. Within LEARN Behavioral, a leading organization dedicated to enhancing lives through applied behavior analysis (ABA), the significance of clinical integrity resonates deeply, shaping not only the quality of services provided but also how we lead our teams.

The Essence of Clinical Integrity

Clinical integrity encompasses more than just adhering to ethical guidelines; it embodies a commitment to honesty, transparency, and a genuine dedication to the clients’ well-being. In the context of ABA, clinical integrity means adhering to evidence-based practices, valuing the principles of behavior analysis, and consistently providing high-quality services. As a leader at LEARN, integrity is my core value, and choosing to lead with integrity is a choice and commitment that I make each day to guide every decision I make.

Leadership and Clinical Integrity

As leaders, we understand that we serve as role models for our teams. We recognize that upholding clinical integrity isn’t just a checkbox but a responsibility that influences the organization’s culture and outcomes. When leaders prioritize integrity, it creates a ripple effect. Employees witness the importance of their work and feel empowered to maintain the same level of commitment. The leaders’ commitment to clinical integrity sets the tone for the team, fostering an environment of trust, professionalism, and continuous learning.

Impact on Employees

For employees, working within a culture of clinical integrity brings a profound sense of purpose, pride, and trust. When team members see their leaders consistently making ethical decisions and prioritizing evidence-based practices, it enhances their job satisfaction and motivation. They feel secure in the knowledge that they contribute to meaningful change in clients’ lives. This sense of fulfillment, in turn, translates into increased productivity, better teamwork, and reduced burnout.

Impact on Clients

Clients receiving ABA services from LEARN benefit from an organization rooted in clinical integrity. They can trust that their well-being is the top priority and that the interventions and strategies suggested are backed by contemporary, evidence-based behavior analysis. This trust is vital in fostering a strong therapist-client relationship, a cornerstone of successful behavior intervention. Clients experience progress that is not only effective but ethical, ensuring their dignity and respect are upheld throughout their journey.

What does clinical integrity look like each day? Here are a few examples:

  • Commitment to Neurodiversity: LEARN’s commitment to contemporary ABA and supporting neurodivergence goes hand-in-hand with clinical integrity by promoting the dignity and respect of all of our clients in all settings and at all times.
  • Continuous Professional Development: LEARN offers a monthly Speaker Series and a library of recorded trainings for our clinicians, allowing both behavior technicians (BTs) and behavior analysts access to continuing education on an ongoing basis.
  • Adherence to the Ethical Code: The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) Ethics Code and relevant state licensure requirements, as applicable, serve to guide our clinical practice.
  • Honesty in Reporting Data: As behavior analysts, we are responsible for maintaining data accurately and honestly.
  • Clinical Assessments and Evaluations: Regular assessments and evaluations ensure that practices remain aligned with the latest research and ethical standards. Our clinicians choose from a battery of assessments that includes norm-referenced and criterion-referenced tools that help inform their clinical practice.


A commitment to clinical integrity is at the heart of our practice at LEARN. As we see the field of behavior analysis evolve and as our company continues to grow and change, our support of clinical integrity is our constant. My hope as a leader is for all clinicians to make a renewed commitment to leading with integrity every day. Collectively, a shared commitment to honesty, transparency, and respect will profoundly impact the clients we serve and build trust in the autism community.

Ashley Williams is a Vice President at LEARN Behavioral.