This comparison draws in part from “2023 Post Convention Workshop Event: Success as a Supervisor” by Linda LeBlanc, PhD, BCBA-D, Lic Psy (BehaviorLive), and extends it with peer-reviewed research from our library of 27,900+ ABA research articles. The decision framework, BACB ethics code references, and cross-links below are synthesized by Behaviorist Book Club.
View the original presentation →One of the most consequential decisions a behavior analyst makes is not just what intervention to use, but how to approach the clinical question in the first place. For 2023 post convention workshop event: success as a supervisor, the difference between an evidence-based, individualized approach and a traditional, protocol-driven one can significantly impact outcomes.
This guide lays out the key factors side by side to support your clinical decision-making.
| Factor | Evidence-Based Approach | Traditional Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Starting point | Unstructured first year: Begins supervision without systematic assessment of supervisory readiness; assumes clinical competence translates to supervisory competence | Structured framework: Begins with self-assessment of supervisory competence and identification of priority development areas before first supervision session |
| Competency coverage | Unstructured first year: Competencies developed based on what problems arise; critical areas may remain unaddressed if they are not prompted by immediate challenges | Structured framework: Systematic curriculum ensures all required competency areas are addressed in a logical sequence across the supervisory year |
| Values awareness | Unstructured first year: Values operate implicitly; supervisor may not recognize when their values are producing unintended outcomes until patterns are well established | Structured framework: Values clarified at the outset; explicit values provide a reference point for supervisory decisions and a basis for identifying value conflicts |
| Professional isolation | Unstructured first year: Supervisor works through challenges independently; may not have access to peers or mentors who can provide guidance on supervisory practice | Structured framework: Workshop format creates peer community; consulting supervisor model provides ongoing guidance and feedback on supervisory behavior |
| Documentation quality | Unstructured first year: Documentation is often reactive and minimal; may not meet BACB requirements or provide a useful record for supervisory decision-making | Structured framework: Documentation systems are designed proactively as part of the planning process; records support both BACB compliance and ongoing quality improvement |
| Trainee outcomes | Unstructured first year: Trainee development may be uneven; areas not addressed in supervision create competency gaps that persist into independent practice | Structured framework: Systematic competency development produces more complete preparation for independent practice; trainee and supervisor share explicit expectations about goals and criteria |
The ABA Clubhouse has 60+ on-demand CEUs including ethics, supervision, and clinical topics like this one. Plus a new live CEU every Wednesday.
Use this framework when approaching 2023 post convention workshop event: success as a supervisor in your practice:
Does the data support a need for intervention? Is there a meaningful impact on the individual's quality of life, safety, or access to reinforcement?
YES → Proceed to assessment NO → Document reasoning, monitor
A functional assessment should guide intervention selection. Avoid defaulting to standard protocols without individual analysis. Consider environmental variables, setting events, and private events.
YES → Select evidence-based approach matched to function NO → Complete assessment first
Goals should be co-developed. Assent and informed consent are ethical requirements. The individual's preferences and values matter in selecting both goals and methods.
YES → Proceed with collaborative plan NO → Engage in shared decision-making
This course covers the clinical and ethical dimensions in detail with structured learning objectives and CEU credit.
2023 Post Convention Workshop Event: Success as a Supervisor — Linda LeBlanc · 6 BACB Supervision CEUs · $180
Take This Course →We extended this decision guide with research from our library — dig into the peer-reviewed studies behind each approach, in plain-English summaries written for BCBAs.
256 research articles with practitioner takeaways
252 research articles with practitioner takeaways
239 research articles with practitioner takeaways
6 BACB Supervision CEUs · $180 · BehaviorLive
Research-backed educational guide
Research-backed answers for behavior analysts
You earn CEUs from a dozen different places. Upload any certificate — from here, your employer, conferences, wherever — and always know exactly where you stand. Learning, Ethics, Supervision, all handled.
No credit card required. Cancel anytime.
All behavior-analytic intervention is individualized. The information on this page is for educational purposes and does not constitute clinical advice. Treatment decisions should be informed by the best available published research, individualized assessment, and obtained with the informed consent of the client or their legal guardian. Behavior analysts are responsible for practicing within the boundaries of their competence and adhering to the BACB Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts.