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The BCBA's Role as a Supervisor with Marissalyn Gonzales, BCBA
Episode 247th April 2026 • My BCBA Life • Circle Care Services
00:00:00 00:28:33

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You can access .5 Supervision CEUs with the link below.

Access your CEU Certificate: https://form.jotform.com/260895851418165

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Most BCBAs focus on technical skills, but the secret to truly empowering your team—and boosting client success—lies in soft skills. Marissalyn Gonzales, a veteran BCBA with a decade of diverse experience, reveals how authentic communication, empathy, and trust-building with RBTs and student analysts can transform your supervision approach. In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • How to foster genuine rapport with your team by treating RBTs as humans first
  • Practical strategies for giving meaningful, effective feedback without the dreaded sandwich method
  • The importance of active listening, remembering personal details, and showing compassion to improve motivation and performance
  • Why soft skills are just as critical as clinical expertise in delivering quality ABA services
  • Lessons learned from traveling the country with a military spouse—and how these insights shape her supervision style

If you’re tired of superficial supervision and want to connect more deeply with your team to elevate client outcomes, this conversation will flip your perspective on leadership in ABA. Perfect for supervisors at all levels who crave stronger relationships, better communication, and a more human-centered approach. Whether you’re a BCBA, student analyst, or aspiring supervisor, these insights will help you build trust, inspire your team, and ultimately deliver more effective therapy. Don’t miss the chance to learn from Marissalyn's real-world experiences—because in ABA, soft skills can make all the difference.

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00:00 Introduction and Background

01:59 The Role of BCBAs as Trainers and Supervisors

04:43 Building Relationships with RBTs and Student Analysts

07:48 The Importance of Soft Skills in ABA

10:41 Feedback and Communication Strategies

13:36 Navigating Challenges in the Field

16:47 Final Thoughts and Compassion in ABA

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