This comparison draws in part from “PM Workshop 1: Success As a New 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 pm workshop 1: success as a new 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Goal clarity | Self-directed: Supervision goals emerge reactively based on what problems arise; no predetermined competency targets | Structured framework: Competency objectives are defined at the outset, providing clear targets for both the supervisor and trainee |
| Coverage of required competencies | Self-directed: Risk of significant gaps in competency coverage, particularly for skills that are not prompted by immediate clinical challenges | Structured framework: Systematic curriculum ensures all relevant competency areas are addressed across the supervisory year |
| Response to performance problems | Self-directed: Performance issues may not be identified until they are significant; corrective action is reactive | Structured framework: Regular assessment points create early identification of performance gaps and allow for proactive intervention |
| Supervisor self-development | Self-directed: Supervisor's own skill gaps are addressed only if they surface as visible problems in the supervisory relationship | Structured framework: Self-assessment at the outset identifies supervisor growth areas, and ongoing reflection is built into the process |
| Ethical compliance | Self-directed: Documentation and competency assessment may be ad hoc; risk of failing to meet BACB requirements | Structured framework: Documentation systems are designed proactively; BACB requirements are addressed as part of the planning process |
| Trainee experience | Self-directed: Trainee experience varies based on what cases arise; developmental needs may be inconsistently addressed | Structured framework: Trainee receives intentional, individualized developmental experiences that are responsive to their specific needs and goals |
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 pm workshop 1: success as a new 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.
PM Workshop 1: Success As a New Supervisor — Linda LeBlanc · 3 BACB Supervision CEUs · $150
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.
280 research articles with practitioner takeaways
279 research articles with practitioner takeaways
258 research articles with practitioner takeaways
3 BACB Supervision CEUs · $150 · BehaviorLive
Research-backed educational guide
Research-backed answers for behavior analysts
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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.