Strong parent partnerships are essential for successful Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs, especially those in the growing field of virtual services. Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) can foster meaningful collaboration with caregivers, increasing caregiver satisfaction, decreasing caregiver stress, and ultimately improving outcomes for children and families. As two clinicians working in virtual ABA, we’re sharing our experiences in building effective parent partnerships and stories of how we’ve seen genuine partnerships empower families and transform lives.

Leading with Empathy

Kristen Azotea, BCBA

To avoid becoming a distant “expert-behind-the-screen,” BCBAs must strive to be genuine partners with caregivers in their journey to support their child. I have found that empathy and open communication are key strategies to ensuring that caregivers feel heard and valued as a critical part of their child’s ABA program. Building rapport is about authentic human connection, not a flawless virtual backdrop. To build this connection I use active listening while engaging in everyday conversations, not just focusing solely on data. I focus on sharing positive stories of their child’s progress which I’ve found can brighten a caregiver’s potentially difficult day.

In working with children and their caregivers I’ve come to appreciate the significant stress caregivers often experience, noticing that parenting can feel like an endurance event, particularly during challenging times. I take this into consideration when partnering with families. I’ve found introducing changes through small, manageable steps is generally more effective than overwhelming caregivers with information. Instead of simply telling caregivers what to do, I ask for their insights by asking open-ended questions like “What do you think?” I have found this can reveal valuable perspectives and truly honors the fact that they know their child, and their family, best.

In my practice as a virtual BCBA, emphasizing partnership involves demonstrating to caregivers that their role is essential. Clearly explaining the benefits of their involvement can create enthusiasm and buy-in. Setting clear expectations is important to ensure caregivers understand the collaborative nature of ABA therapy and so they don't feel the need to become overnight experts in behavior analysis. I establish myself as a trusted source of ideas and thought partnership, while also emphasizing the important role that they play in how the program and outcomes progress.

By applying these principles, I have found that I can cultivate strong, adaptable partnerships with caregivers in virtual ABA settings. These partnerships are essential to addressing the complexities of child development and fostering lasting, positive change.

Empowering Caregivers as Lifelong Teachers

Hayden Ward, BCBA

The AnswersNow model is built on the belief that families are co-pilots, not passengers, on their child’s ABA journey. Unlike more traditional models of ABA where families may observe sessions periodically, or meet with a BCBA a couple times a month, families receiving virtual ABA through AnswersNow find that they are active participants in their child’s program. This provides them the opportunity to build their confidence and embed therapy into daily life in a practical, meaningful way.

Every family is different, so programming must reflect that. I begin by collaborating with caregivers to identify what matters most to them and what fits into their daily routines. I work to understand each family’s values, culture, and priorities for their child’s independence. Through ongoing social validity check-ins, behavior observations, and caregiver discussions, we evaluate which strategies are effective and adjust as needed. Programming is individualized and focused on generalizing skills to real-life settings while addressing emerging behavior concerns. We review data weekly, address potential barriers, and prioritize the client’s assent and choice in planning goals to support their independence and happiness. My goal is to build skills across settings, people, and scenarios, while helping caregivers feel confident applying strategies beyond sessions. Caregivers actively participate in weekly training where we explore ways to promote generalization and maintenance. I tailor caregiver training to their learning styles and use behavioral skills training—especially modeling, which is highly effective in telehealth. Telehealth also enhances flexibility in planning real-world generalization. Each week, I take time to highlight positive behavior changes and celebrate progress across all environments.

A Unified Perspective

While our approaches vary, our philosophy is the same: virtual ABA works best when built on a foundation of collaboration. Whether simplifying an intervention, modeling strategies live, or sharing a moment of humor, every interaction is a chance to strengthen the partnership.

When caregivers feel heard, seen, and valued, they become confident advocates and teachers in their child’s life. Virtual ABA offers the best of both worlds—expert guidance and personalized support that fits each family’s unique needs.

If you're a therapist who values caregiver collaboration or a parent looking to support your child’s growth, we invite you to visit getanswersnow.com today.