I recently accepted a position at a new ABA center run by CEOs who do not hold BCBA credentials or have prior experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. During my interview, I was upfront about my expectations regarding clinical oversight, ethical practice, and alignment with trauma-informed care. I was assured that appropriate support and infrastructure were in place.
However, on my very first day, I learned that the Clinical Director had resigned well before my interview—something that was never disclosed. I was informed I would be the only clinician on-site the following week, with no BCBA mentorship or peer support available.
In my short tenure, I witnessed several deeply concerning practices, including:
Physical prompting that bordered on forcefulness.
A client being confined alone in a room without cameras, without a Behavior Intervention Plan, and in visible distress while attempting to leave.
Staff physically lifting and moving clients when they did not comply.
A systemic prioritization of compliance over compassionate care.
When I voiced my ethical and safety concerns to leadership, I was met with a dismissive response: “No clients were hurt, and no parents complained.” This attitude reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of ethical obligations in behavior analysis, including proactive harm prevention, client dignity, and informed consent.
Ultimately, I made the decision to resign after just two weeks. I could not in good conscience continue in an environment that failed to uphold the standards of our field. To add to the concern, I am now being asked to reimburse the company for training I never received and credentialing costs not outlined clearly prior to employment.
I strongly caution any BCBA or clinician considering employment at this center. Until there is significant oversight and restructuring, it is not a safe or ethical environment for clients or staff.
