World Behavior Analysis Day is celebrated each year on March 20, coinciding with the birthdate of B.F. Skinner – the founder of contemporary behavior analysis. The observance was created to celebrate, promote and share the science of behavior analysis on a global scale, increasing awareness and inclusivity across all branches of behavior analysis.
This World Behavior Analysis Day, we are showcasing the heart and soul of our approach to applied behavior analysis (ABA)—our clinicians. In this blog, we will be featuring two Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) from our Virginia Beach, VA Behavioral Office. Melissa and Alexia will walk through one example of what a day in their lives as BCBAs looks like.
Alexia Sheehan, BCBA – Clinical Supervisor
Alexia starts her day, like many of us do – by grabbing a coffee so she feels energized and ready for the day. She also picked up a coffee for her Client Coordinator, Alexis, who handles scheduling and cancellations for both the families and the direct care staff. Our Client Coordinators take so much off the plates of our BCBAs so they can focus supporting our clients, their families, and our registered behavior technicians.
Alexia’s morning workload began with attending a quarterly training session with her fellow BCBA, a time set aside to stay current on evolving clinical practices, review updates in insurance and compliance requirements, and strengthen the quality and consistency of care across all cases. While in-office, Alexia met with one of the Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) who she supervises, to go over a supervision contract for a new client.
As an in-home BCBA, it is super important that Alexia fits in time for herself, even if it is on-the-go, so she can feel refreshed and prepared to provide the best therapy services possible for her clients. In between meetings and client sessions, Alexia dedicated some time to self-care.
Our BCBAs spend between 20-25 hours per week in the home working with clients. While each case and day is unique, our BCBAs may be teaching parents how to use ABA strategies, conducting assessments to update treatment plans or supervising RBTs during their treatment sessions.
Being a BCBA, Alexia has the flexibility to complete some of her work from the comfort of her home. This work can consist of creating materials for continuing education unit events or client programming, care coordination, other administrative tasks that are not directly tied to a client’s treatment plan.
While at home and in between finishing up some indirect work, Alexia cooks dinner and prepares herself for her weekend. With her week wrapped up, Alexia looks forward to a relaxing weekend—recharging so she can maintain the healthy balance that keeps her at her best.
Melissa Rush, BCBA – Clinical Supervisor
Melissa starts her day at the office by leading a hands‑on skills lab for the team of technicians. This type of training is essential for RBTs because it allows them to practice ABA techniques in realistic scenarios under the guidance of experienced BCBAs, building confidence, accuracy, and overall readiness to support clients effectively.
During time not spent directly with clients, Melissa turns her attention to planning her schedule, answering emails, analyzing client data, and creating new learning or engagement opportunities to enhance her clients’ treatment plans. With a flexible schedule, she chooses the environment where she is most productive. This could be at home, in the office or in a third space where she can focus.
After wrapping up meetings and treatment planning, Melissa heads out to visit clients and supervise their RBTs, offering real‑time feedback, documenting progress, and supporting the implementation of new or updated strategies. Once she completes her client sessions for the day, Melissa returns home to finish remaining indirect tasks, reviewing all notes, treatment updates, and follow‑up items are completed before ending her day.
By the end of the day, Melissa has balanced training, planning and direct client care with skill and intention, so that every client and team member receives the support they need to thrive.
Maxim Behavioral
With Maxim Healthcare’s behavioral division (“Maxim Behavioral”), our clinicians are truly at the heart of everything we do. Their dedication, compassion and clinical expertise drive the meaningful progress our clients make each day. We are proud to support a team of professionals who continually strive for excellence and place client success at the center of their work this World Behavior Analysis Day.
As we continue to grow, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a lasting impact. If you or someone you know is interested in joining our team, we invite you to explore our open positions and learn more about our rewarding career opportunities.
