What does a parent-led approach to ABA therapy look like? In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, hosts Stephen Smith and April Smith speak with Zandra Santella about how ABA providers can create more collaborative, sustainable, and family-centered care. 

Zandra Santella is a BCBA and founder of Beauty in Behavior, a platform focused on ethical, collaborative, and parent-led ABA practices. With more than 12 years of experience in autism services, she provides consultation, remote supervision for trainees, and parent coaching support for families and clinicians. 

The Big Questions 

What is parent-led ABA therapy?

A collaborative approach where parents actively participate in goal setting, strategies, and decision-making.

Why is parent trust important?

It improves communication, increases consistency, and helps families feel supported.

What should parents expect from a BCBA?

Clear communication, shared goal setting, ethical recommendations, and support that fits real-life routines.

Why are compliance-based goals controversial?

The field is shifting toward autonomy, communication, emotional regulation, and quality of life.

How can BCBAs involve parents more?

By using coaching, offering practical home strategies, validating experiences, and aligning goals with family priorities.

Have a question for Stephen and April? 

Call the ABA Business Leaders Hotline: (737) 330-1432 

This podcast was produced by Max McLellan of MKM Audio 

Want to start or grow a podcast for your business or brand? Reach out here: https://www.mkmaudio.com/ 

Resources & Links 

Business Essentials List 

https://www.3piesquared.com/blog/the-essential-list-for-a-successful-business_24 

ABA Business Leaders Support Group: 

https://forms.office.com/r/LLpAHCXUN8 

Schedule a consultation with Stephen 

https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page 

Free ABA Business Readiness Assessment 

https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment 

ABA Billing Tips Guide 

https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_Tips 

ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs 

https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs

Stephen’s Book: 

https://www.amazon.co.uk/ABA-Business-Leaders-Guide-Practice-ebook/dp/B0G1MLVTW6?ref_=ast_author_dp&th=1&psc=1