In this episode of Safe Space: The ABA Podcast, host Michelle Zeman sits down with special guest Alicia Renee, founder of The IEP Files and self-proclaimed “IEP Queen.” Alicia shares her journey as a COPAA-trained advocate, autism mom, and passionate leader in special education advocacy. Together, they dive deep into strategies for parents to navigate IEP meetings, ask the right questions, document effectively (“collecting receipts”), and shift from overwhelm to empowerment.

Listeners will walk away with practical tools, a better understanding of timelines and legal protections, and the encouragement to never enter an IEP meeting alone or unprepared.

Be sure to listen for the two code words to earn 1.5 General CEUs for listening to this episode! Reminder: submit this via the google form on our Instagram @safespaceaba!

In this episode of Safe Space, the ABA Podcast, Michelle Zeman welcomes back the dynamic duo behind The Psychobabble BCBAs - Lauryn and Erica - for a thought-provoking conversation on one of the most debated topics in our field: dosage and medical necessity in ABA. Together, they unpack the history of the “40-hour standard,” explore what the research really says about intensity and outcomes, and challenge the field to reconsider blanket recommendations in favor of individualized, socially significant treatment planning.

From unlearning outdated practices to tackling real-world barriers like family stress, naps, and system pressures, this discussion is equal parts eye-opening and practical. Whether you’re a new BCBA or a seasoned practitioner, you’ll walk away with fresh insights on how to ethically navigate dosage decisions that honor both clinical evidence and family values.

Listeners can earn 1.5 Ethics CEUs by listening to the full episode and completing our Google Form with the two code words shared.

What does independence really mean for neurodiverse learners, and how can families set them up for long-term success? Host Michelle Zeman welcomes Christine Drew and Kristin Lombardi to discuss their book Spectrum of Independence, which offers families a structured yet flexible framework for building independence. They explore how small, consistent steps - like breaking down daily routines into teachable parts - can lead to big changes over time, while also addressing the challenges of burnout, resistance, and fading parental support. Listeners will gain insight into why services often fall off after age 21, why early preparation matters, and how parents can move from doing for their child to empowering them with the tools to do for themselves. The authors also highlight how teaching independence protects boundaries, supports consent, and reduces vulnerability to abuse. They also examine the risks of overprotection, the importance of teaching boundaries and consent, and the need to prepare families for the “services cliff” when supports drop off after age 21. This detailed discussion blends professional expertise with relatable family stories, making it a valuable resource for caregivers, educators, and practitioners alike. Be sure to listen out for the code words to earn 1.0 general CEU!

TRIGGER WARNING: Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence

Trauma leaves a lasting mark — on the mind, the body, and behavior. In this heartfelt episode, host Michelle Zeman welcomes Matt Tapia, BCBA and LMFT, for a powerful discussion on recognizing and addressing trauma in ABA settings. With over 15 years of experience supporting neurodiverse children and families, Matt brings a rare combination of clinical expertise and lived experience as an autistic professional and parent of an autistic daughter currently receiving ABA services. At Hopebridge, he leads a multidisciplinary team, mentors aspiring behavior analysts, and designs individualized interventions grounded in ethical, evidence-based practices that prioritize dignity, autonomy, and meaningful outcomes. Drawing from his background in behavior analysis, marriage and family therapy, practical functional assessment, skill-based treatment, and acceptance and commitment therapy, Matt shares how trust, rapport, and family collaboration are key to lasting transformation. Listeners will gain insight into trauma-informed strategies, the importance of honoring client consent, and the value of integrating science with compassion to create inclusive, life-changing support. Be sure to listen for the 2 code words and earn 1.5 General CEUs!

What does it look like to advocate for your own learning while honoring your current role and the supervision structure around you? How do you take on new responsibilities without overstepping boundaries?

In this thoughtful and informative episode, student analyst Abby Schierer joins host Michelle Zeman to explore these questions and more. As a full-time team member at To The Moon ABA Therapy and a master’s student pursuing her BCBA, Abby shares her journey from Philosophy and Ethics coursework to meaningful, hands-on clinical experiences. From navigating restricted vs. unrestricted hours to contributing to risk analysis, programming, peer review, and mock plans, Abby reflects on what it takes to build competence and confidence during fieldwork.

She also dives into the importance of thoughtful feedback, strong supervisory relationships, and learning to balance initiative with professional boundaries. Whether you’re just starting out or mentoring others, this episode offers real-world insight and valuable perspective on growing within the field of ABA.

Listen out for two code words provided throughout the episode to earn 1.0 Supervision CEU.

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.