The collaboration between Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) represents one of the most powerful interdisciplinary partnerships in disability services, yet its application in adult settings remains dramatically underexplored. While pediatric collaboration models between these two disciplines have been studied and refined over decades, the adult services landscape presents distinct challenges and opportunities that demand their own frameworks, protocols, and clinical considerations.
Provider: BehaviorLive — via The Speech Pathology Applied Behavior Analysis (SPABA)
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Join Free →The collaboration between Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) has long been recognized in pediatric settings, but its role in adult services is often underrepresented. This presentation explores the intersection of the two disciplines within Virginia's Therapeutic Consultation (TC) model, highlighting both the unique contributions of each professional and the points of overlap that strengthen outcomes for adults with disabilities. Participants will gain an overview of the history and structure of TC services in Virginia, followed by a clear outline of the BCBA and SLP roles in adult contexts—including data collection, observation, training, and modeling. Key distinctions from pediatric models will be examined, with special attention to issues of human rights, autonomy, and the adaptation of assessment and reinforcement procedures for adult populations. Through practical examples and case applications, attendees will learn how collaborative approaches between SLPs and BCBAs can promote independence, dignity, and community participation for adults with disabilities. The session will conclude with opportunities for discussion and application to participants' own practice settings. Please note that BACB CEs are available for synchronous AND asynchronous viewing, while ASHA CEs are available for synchronous viewing only.
| Certification Body | Credits | Type |
|---|---|---|
| BACB® | 1 | Ethics |
| ASHA | 0.1 | — |
| COA | 1 | — |
| PDH | 1 | — |
Lauren R. Ross is a dually certified Speech-Language Pathologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with a passion for empowering individuals to achieve their fullest potential. She earned her undergraduate degree from Appalachian State University and pursued her Master’s in Communication Disorders at Old Dominion University.Lauren began her career in the public school system, where she served as a speech pathologist for five years while simultaneously completing her BCBA certification at Clemson University. This dedication to continued education allowed her to seamlessly blend her expertise in speech therapy with behavioral analysis.After transitioning to private practice, Lauren thrived as a behavioral consultant in public schools before becoming the Clinical Director of a private practice in the Lynchburg area.In 2022, she founded Precision Therapy PLLC, a practice dedicated to enhancing the lives of adults by equipping caregivers with the tools to address challenging behaviors and foster independence effectively. Under Lauren’s leadership, Precision Therapy has been recognized on the Best of Business list from 2023 to 2025 and was awarded Best Place to Work in 2025, reflecting the organization’s commitment to excellence and a positive workplace culture.
Dig into the research behind this topic — plain-English summaries written for BCBAs.
279 research articles with practitioner takeaways
258 research articles with practitioner takeaways
252 research articles with practitioner takeaways
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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.