Embarking on a new journey often comes with a mix of excitement and uncertainty, and my foray into the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) was no different. Fifteen years ago, I stepped into this world of data-driven decisions, behavioral interventions, and an incredible sense of purpose—all aimed at making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. This blog is my space to document this ongoing journey, reflect on my experiences, and share the lessons I’ve learned along the way.
Fifteen years ago, while studying for my degree in Special Education in Mumbai, I was introduced to concepts that have shaped my practice to this day. One of the most impactful lessons was the importance of fluency in mastered tasks to ensure their functionality in the everyday lives of children with special needs. This principle highlighted how mastery alone isn’t enough—fluency makes those skills usable in real-world settings. Another aspect that caught my attention was learning about different models of teaching reading. This sparked a passion for literacy instruction that has continued throughout my career. You’ll find me talking a lot about functional literacy and numeracy on this blog, as I believe these skills are foundational for a child’s independence and success.
From the very beginning, I’ve been struck by how central decision-making is to the work of ABA therapy. Every day brings a host of choices, big and small: Which goals should take priority? What intervention strategy best suits this particular client? How do I balance evidence-based practices with the unique needs of individuals? These questions, while challenging, lie at the heart of what makes this work so dynamic and fulfilling.
Take this week, for instance. I faced a decision about whether to introduce a new reinforcement system for a client or focus on improving consistency with the current one. After reviewing the data and considering the client’s progress, I decided to tweak the existing system. It was a small but significant decision, underscoring the importance of flexibility and the need to continuously adapt plans. This iterative process of observing, analyzing, and adjusting feels like the lifeblood of ABA therapy, and I’ve learned to embrace it wholeheartedly.
Of course, the work isn’t just about strategies and systems; it’s deeply rooted in human connection. Building rapport, celebrating small victories, and remaining compassionate on difficult days remind me why I chose this field in the first place. The best interventions, I’ve discovered, aren’t just about protocols and plans—they’re grounded in empathy and understanding. This perspective has only deepened over the years, and it’s something I strive to carry into every session.
Consistency has also been on my mind lately. Writing this blog is part of my effort to stay consistent—not only in reflecting on my work but also in holding myself accountable for my personal and professional growth. Documenting my journey helps me track progress, celebrate milestones, and learn from challenges. My hope is that these reflections resonate with others in the ABA field or anyone navigating their own path of growth and development.
As I look to the future, my immediate goals include fine-tuning a social skills program for several of my clients, as well as developing an effective parent training curriculum. Over the years, I’ve found that parent training is an extremely crucial component of ABA therapy. Yet, I have not come across a curriculum that feels truly effective for my unique caseload. Each passing year reinforces the importance of equipping families with tools that not only support their child’s growth but also strengthen the overall therapeutic process. Developing a tailored approach will be challenging, but I’m excited to tackle this need and work towards meaningful solutions.
Thank you for taking the time to join me on this journey. My hope is that this blog becomes more than just a reflection of my experiences. I want it to be a resource, a source of inspiration, and a place for connection. Here’s to continued growth, learning, and the countless decisions that make up this rewarding profession!