What does effective, ethical supervision look like when working with adults in crisis — not kids? In this episode, Dr. Ashley Fiorilli, PhD, BCBA, Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist, and Founder of Be Still Be Connected, LLC, joins us to unpack the unique challenges and opportunities of supervising RBTs in adult residential and crisis care settings.

Together, we explore why the traditional ABA playbook — rooted in discrete trial training, compliance, and early intervention models — often fails to serve adults with complex trauma histories, psychiatric diagnoses, and co-occurring medical needs. Dr. Fiorilli shares how she integrates ACT, trauma-informed care, and relational frameworks to help RBTs build flexibility, read the room, and respond compassionately in high-stakes environments where safety and dignity must come first.

We discuss the real-world gaps in RBT training when applied to adults, including navigating medical and psychiatric systems, medication management, and how to identify essential vs. non-essential demands in the moment. From recognizing a client’s “window of willingness” to letting go of power struggles in favor of trust-building, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies to help supervisors and technicians alike rethink their role through a more compassionate, human-centered lens.

Whether you work in residential care, forensic settings, or anywhere adults with complex needs are served, this episode will challenge you to rethink your approach to behavior change, progress, and supervision.

Listen out for the two code words to earn your free 1.0 Ethics CEU.

Join host Michelle Zeman as she reconnects with former supervisee Nick Gopaul to explore his inspiring journey through the world of Applied Behavior Analysis. From his early days navigating culture shock in the clinic as an RBT to becoming a BCaBA to his current journey through coursework to become a BCBA, Nick shares candid stories about his experience so far. Tune in to hear about building resilience, fostering empathy, and learning how ethical, collaborative supervision can shape a practitioner’s path. This episode is full of heartfelt reflections, humor (yes, slushies were thrown), and insights into what it means to truly “marinate” in your role as you grow. Listen for two code words for 1 free supervision CEU!

In this insightful episode, we talk with Nicole Stewart, BCBA, about her personal and professional journey supporting gifted children with ADHD and Autism. Nicole shares how raising her own neurodivergent child shaped the innovative, non-traditional work she does today. We explore why traditional talk therapy often misses the mark, how she uses creative tools to build emotional regulation and working memory, and why giving families a shared language is so transformative. Nicole also explains how she weaves principles from ACT and ABA into her sessions—without sticking rigidly to either—and offers powerful advice for parents just starting out on this path. If you're looking for a fresh, honest perspective on supporting neurodivergent kids, this conversation is not to be missed.

In this episode of Safe Space, host Michelle Zeman is joined by special guest Nichole Mark, BCBA, a passionate mentor and the founder of Behavior Mastered. Nichole shares her journey into the field of ABA—from initially pursuing pediatrics to discovering her calling while working alongside RBTs as a speech therapist.

Nichole offers a firsthand look at how the field has evolved from compliance-driven practices to a more values-driven approach centered on empowerment and ethical mentorship. She reflects on her early experiences as an RBT, the impact of poor training standards, and the rise of unprepared practitioners entering the field under the assumption that the role is “easy.”

Throughout the conversation, Nichole emphasizes the critical role BCBAs play in shaping competent, confident RBTs. She shares actionable insights on mentorship, supervision, and what companies and clinicians must do better to ensure quality care. Her story about a three-hour power struggle session offers a raw, real example of how power dynamics and training intersect—and what it means to truly support both clients and staff.

This episode offers 1.0 Supervision CEU for Board Certified Behavior Analysts. Behavior analysts, be sure to listen for the two code words mentioned during the episode to claim your free CEU.

Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of racial microaggressions, workplace trauma, and explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.

Join host Michelle Zeeman and BCBA Victoria Contreras as they dive deep into the ethical complexities faced by behavior analysts in the field. From confronting outdated and harmful practices to advocating for client dignity and rights, Victoria shares her personal journey unlearning toxic approaches and finding her voice amid challenging clinical situations.

This episode covers crucial topics including the ethics of crisis intervention, power struggles in treatment, and the importance of self-reflection before behavior change. Perfect for ABA professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of ethical practice and navigate real-world dilemmas with integrity.

Earn 1.0 Ethics CEU by listening and applying these vital lessons to your practice. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges us all to put client well-being and ethical responsibility first.

In this episode, we sit down with a Lauren Nava, a passionate BCBA who began her career during one of the most unpredictable times—the COVID-19 pandemic. She shares how the shift to telehealth reshaped her approach to supervision, deepened her connection with families, and pushed her to get creative in delivering effective, engaging ABA services remotely. From channeling her inner “Miss Rachel” to navigating tech hiccups and building a loyal team of RBTs, this conversation offers honest insights and practical strategies for thriving in a virtual ABA world. Whether you're new to telehealth or looking to strengthen remote relationships, this episode is full of lessons you don’t want to miss.

In this episode, we sit down with Charlotte Earnhart, BCBA, and founder of Safe Sensory Sitters, to discuss the inspiration behind starting this specialized service for children with sensory needs. Charlotte shares insights on maintaining ethical standards in ABA practice, balancing the roles of business owner and service provider, and the importance of dignity and professionalism in care. We dive into navigating client boundaries, handling requests outside professional scope, and ensuring transparent marketing. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or ABA professional, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on providing ethical and compassionate care while running a business.

In this episode of Safe Space ABA, Jessica Woolson, BCBA, certified mindfulness and social-emotional learning (SEL) facilitator, joins host Michelle Zeman, MA, BCBA, LBA, to explore the role of mindfulness, SEL, and trauma-informed care in building resilience within ABA. Drawing from her work with Breathe for Change, Jessica shares how these practices can enhance educator wellness, prevent burnout, and create more inclusive, compassionate learning environments.

Together, they unpack the key differences between being trauma-aware and trauma-informed, explore the six guiding principles of trauma-informed care, and discuss practical strategies for integrating these approaches into ABA and beyond.

1.0 Ethics CEU for BCBAs

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on fostering well-being, equity, and human connection in behavior analysis and education.

In this episode, Michelle Zeman sits down with Miranda Irvin to explore her unique journey toward becoming a BCBA, including her experience working with four different companies during her supervision. They discuss the varied supervision styles, how these experiences shaped Miranda’s professional growth, and the skills she developed along the way. From balancing clinical work with administrative duties to navigating virtual supervision, Miranda shares valuable insights that will resonate with aspiring and newly certified BCBAs. Tune in for practical advice on mentorship, assessment tools, and how to create a meaningful supervision experience that sets you up for long-term success in the field. Plus, earn 1.0 free Supervision CEU!

In this episode of Safe Space: The ABA Podcast, Michelle Zeman speaks with Lisa Vertullo, a Certified Behavioral Sleep Specialist and Behavior Consultant at Half Hollow Hills Central School District. With a career that spans over two decades, Lisa shares her journey of working with individuals with autism and how she integrated sleep strategies into her work. She discusses the importance of a holistic approach that includes medical considerations, care coordination, and behavior analysis to address sleep challenges for neurodiverse learners. Tune in for insights on sleep assessments, strategies for success, and how to debunk common myths surrounding sleep for individuals with autism. This episode offers practical tools for families and professionals alike.