Before discovering ABA, I spent 11 years working as a teaching assistant in schools, supporting children with a wide range of abilities and needs. That time shaped my foundational understanding of how important patience, communication and connection are when working with children, but it wasn’t until 2015 that everything began to shift.
When I joined an ABA Saturday school as a volunteer, I had no idea just how profoundly that decision would influence not just my career path, but also my values, mindset, and sense of purpose. Working alongside children with additional needs and their families, I realised that behaviour is never random, there is always a reason behind it, a function to understand, and I was inspired to learn more.
As I explored ABA further, I was fascinated by its systematic, evidence-based approach. It was practical, yes, but also deeply compassionate. ABA isn’t about control; it’s about understanding, supporting, and empowering: I immersed myself in learning everything I could: the functions of behaviour, ethical decision-making, reinforcement strategies, data collection, and how to individualise support based on what truly matters to the child at the centre.
Alongside this growing knowledge, I worked directly with children and families, in their homes, in nurseries, and in schools, applying what I was learning in meaningful ways. Slowly, I began taking on more responsibility: contributing to assessments and behaviour plans, supporting parents and carers, and regularly reflecting on my own practice.
With the mentorship of several experienced Behaviour Analysts, my confidence grew, and so did my role. I moved into senior support positions, and, in 2021, I became a Case Manager at Rainbow Behavioural Therapies.
In my current role, I lead on behavioural and needs-based assessments, create and oversee personalised support plans, and coach staff teams to ensure consistent, positive practices. It’s important to me that everything we do is not only effective but also ethical, child-centred and ensures the child’s voice is heard and valued, how ever they communicate. Collaboration sits at the heart of this work. I regularly liaise with families, schools, care providers, and multi-agency professionals to ensure joined-up, consistent support.
Over the years, I’ve developed particular interest and skill in supporting communication and social development. I trained in a wide range of tools, including PECS, speech-generating and augmentative communication devices, colourful semantics, TalkTools, LEGO-based therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), with a special focus on DNA-V, a developmentally appropriate model for working with children and young people experiencing Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) difficulties. More recently, I have expanded my practice into working with individuals in residential and supported living settings, applying Positive Behaviour Support in line with best practice.
One of the most rewarding parts of this journey is witnessing how positive changes multiply over time. A simple step forward in communication, an effective new routine falling into place, or a family gaining confidence and understanding, these moments create waves of impact that reach well beyond the immediate moment. It’s about creating meaningful relationships, enhancing well-being, and valuing each child’s strengths and individuality.
My journey hasn’t always been easy, and there is still so much to learn. I continue to grow through literature, ongoing training, and, most of all, the lived experiences of the children and families I support. They challenge me to be more attuned, more flexible, and more impactful.
Looking back, I feel proud of how far I’ve come. And looking forward, I’m excited by what’s still to learn. If you’re just beginning your journey into Behaviour Analysis, or transitioning from a support role like I did, my advice is simple: stay curious, stay compassionate, and never underestimate the power of listening. The path might surprise you… and change your life in the process.
