The Missing Pieces: Advancing Interpersonal Competencies in Behavior Analytic Training matters because it changes what a BCBA notices when decisions have to hold up in joint consultation, shared care planning, school-team communication, and interdisciplinary handoffs. In Advancing Interpersonal Competencies in Behavior Analytic Training, for this course, the practical stakes show up in clearer roles, fewer duplicated efforts, and better coordinated intervention, not in abstract discussion alone.
Provider: BehaviorLive — via BABAT
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Join Free →While the field of applied behavior analysis has rightfully emphasized mastery of behavioral principles and scientific methodology in training practitioners, there has been a relative lack of focus on developing the interpersonal skills necessary for effective collaboration and support of clients, families, and allied professionals (LeBlanc et al., 2019; Taylor et al., 2019). This panel explores the importance of intentionally cultivating repertoires related to behavioral artistry (Bukszpan et al., 2023; Callahan et al., 2019), humility (Kirby et al., 2022), collaboration (LaFrance et al., 2019), and reflective practice skills (Barron et al., 2022). Research indicates that practitioners who demonstrate these "soft skills" are rated more positively by parents and achieve better therapeutic outcomes (Chadwell et al., 2019; Rohrer et al., 2022). However, these skills are rarely explicitly taught in behavior analytic training programs (Canon & Gould, 2021). The panelists will discuss approaches for defining and teaching behavioral artistry, strategies for developing reflective supervision practices, and approaches for fostering genuine collaboration across disciplines while maintaining behavior analytic integrity. Drawing from emerging empirical literature as well as insights from allied fields, we will explore how the field can expand its training focus to develop practitioners who are both technically proficient and interpersonally effective. Implications for training programs, supervision practices, and continuing education will be discussed.
| Certification Body | Credits | Type |
|---|---|---|
| BACB® | 1 | General |
| COA | 1 | — |
Jen Farris is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), the Founder and Chief Science Officer of Sprout, MBC, and an adjunct professor in the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program at Elms College. With over two decades of experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis, Jen has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing the science and practice of behavior analysis. Since founding in 2017, she has worked tirelessly to create an innovative model for providing high-quality ABA services, rooted in both compassion and precision. Jen’s career spans a variety of settings, including schools, centers, and in-home environments, where she has held leadership roles across the spectrum of direct service and clinical supervision. This diverse experience has equipped her with a unique perspective on how to best support individuals and families using evidence-based practices.In her role as the Founder and Chief Science Officer at Sprout, MBC, Jen has prioritized staying at the forefront of ABA practices by integrating the latest advancements in both clinical and educational methodologies. Her company, Sprout, is committed to delivering individualized, high-quality services that reflect her deep understanding of the science behind behavior change. As a precision teacher, Jen is passionate about using precise measurement techniques and data-driven decision-making to ensure the most effective interventions. Her expertise in precision teaching allows her to track small, measurable changes in behavior, allowing clients to make consistent, meaningful progress. She is particularly dedicated to using these tools to support individuals in achieving their full potential, particularly when it comes to educational and developmental milestones.Jen’s dedication to the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis extends beyond her clinical work. As an adjunct professor at Elms College, she trains the next generation of behavior analysts, imparting her wealth of knowledge and experience to students in the ABA program. This role not only allows Jen to shape the future of the field but also keeps her engaged with the latest research and trends in behavior analysis. She values the opportunity to mentor students and share her passion for data-driven, ethical, and compassionate behavior analysis.One of the defining features of Jen’s approach as a BCBA is her deep alignment with both the scientific rigor of ABA and the importance of compassion in service delivery. She strongly believes that data should drive all decisions, but she also emphasizes that interventions must always be personalized and compassionate, ensuring that the individual’s dignity and well-being are central to the process. She is a self-described “data nerd,” finding joy in the intricacies of precise measurement and the satisfaction of knowing that data informs meaningful, lasting change for clients. However, for Jen, ABA is not just about the numbers—it's about people, relationships, and supporting growth in a way that is both scientifically sound and emotionally supportive.When she is not busy with her work, Jen enjoys spending time with her family, including her three young boys. She also has a passion for travel, which allows her to explore new cultures and ideas, further broadening her perspective both personally and professionally. Jen's work, both as a clinician and educator, is fueled by her dedication to improving the lives of those she serves, and her ability to blend her passion for science with her compassion for others is a hallmark of her career.
Dig into the research behind this topic — plain-English summaries written for BCBAs.
239 research articles with practitioner takeaways
231 research articles with practitioner takeaways
225 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.