Supervision in ABA is often described as a blend of coaching, teaching, modeling, and troubleshooting. But the truth is, good supervision goes far beyond building technical skills. It shapes how future clinicians view their work, how they relate to clients, and how they navigate the emotional weight of a field that asks for both precision and compassion.
That’s where Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) becomes a powerful addition – not just for client programs, but for the entire supervision process.
ACT helps clinicians stay grounded, flexible, and connected to the values that brought them into the field in the first place. When we weave ACT concepts into supervision, we’re not only teaching strategies; we’re shaping a healthier, more resilient profession.
As BCBA’s, the quality of our services depends on the quality of the supervision and training that we receive and provide. But we also realize that providing quality supervision requires a lot of time and energy. So we’ve developed this Supervision Resource Bundle with YOU in mind! These resources will take you step-by-step through the supervision process – from a preliminary self-assessment to meeting agendas and more! Together was can raise the level of supervision and make this field as great as we know it can be!
Why ACT Belongs in Supervision
ACT isn’t about telling clinicians to “think positive” or “try to stay calm.” Instead, it teaches skills like noticing, perspective-taking, values-driven action, and willingness. These skills help supervisors and supervisees navigate challenges without getting stuck in rigid patterns of thinking or behavior.
Here’s why it matters:
Supervision Gets Emotional, Whether We Talk About It or Not
New clinicians face moments that can feel overwhelming:
- A challenging behavior plan that isn’t working
- A family that’s burned out
- Imposter syndrome
- Worry about “getting it wrong”
- The pressure to master the BCBA Task List all at once
These experiences are normal. But without support, they can lead to avoidance, self-criticism, or burnout.
ACT gives supervisors a framework to help supervisees notice difficult thoughts (“I’m not good at this”), acknowledge emotions without judgment, and choose actions aligned with their long-term goals.
It Strengthens Professional Problem-Solving
Rigid thinking can creep in during clinical decision-making:
- “This is the only way to run this protocol.”
- “I already tried one idea, so nothing else will work.”
- “The client is being difficult on purpose.”
ACT helps clinicians learn how to step back, get curious, and explore workable solutions rather than defaulting to old habits. This psychological flexibility leads to better programming, more creativity, and more responsive intervention.
It Supports Ethical, Values-Guided Practice
ACT reminds both supervisors and supervisees that behavior change is not just about data – it’s about meaningful change for clients.
When clinicians identify their professional values (e.g., compassion, respect, collaboration, accuracy), they make decisions that feel grounded and ethically sound, even in difficult or ambiguous situations.
How ACT Enhances the Supervisor–Supervisee Relationship
A strong supervisory relationship is one of the best predictors of future clinical success. ACT naturally strengthens this relationship in several ways:
It Normalizes the Internal Experiences That Come with Learning
Instead of jumping straight into “fixing mode,” supervisors can use ACT-informed responses:
- “It makes sense that you felt frustrated.”
- “Let’s notice what thoughts came up for you in that moment.”
- “You don’t have to get rid of that nervous feeling to move forward.”
This creates psychological safety – one of the most valuable elements in supervision.
It Builds Mutual Trust
When a supervisee feels they can bring both wins and struggles without fear of judgment, they ask more questions, seek feedback earlier, and engage more authentically in learning.
ACT provides the language and structure to create that supportive environment.
It Models Healthy Professional Behavior
Supervisees learn how to handle stress partly by watching how supervisors handle stress. When supervisors model calm awareness, flexible decision-making, and values-driven action, supervisees learn to do the same.
UAs BCBA’s, the quality of our services depends on the quality of the supervision and training that we receive and provide. But we also realize that providing quality supervision requires a lot of time and energy. So we’ve developed this Supervision Resource Bundle with YOU in mind! These resources will take you step-by-step through the supervision process – from a preliminary self-assessment to meeting agendas and more! Together was can raise the level of supervision and make this field as great as we know it can be!
6 Practical Ways to Incorporate ACT Into Supervision
You don’t need to redesign your supervision curriculum to bring ACT into the process. Small, consistent practices can make a big impact. Below are practical strategies BCBAs can start using right away.
1. Introduce Short “Noticing” Exercises
Before reviewing a difficult session, start with a simple grounding prompt like: “Let’s take 10 seconds to notice what’s showing up for us – thoughts, feelings, tension, anything.” This slows down automatic reactions and creates space for thoughtful discussion.
2. Use Act Language When Troubleshooting
Instead of “Don’t think that way,” try: “You’re having the thought that you’re not competent. Let’s notice it and look at what action aligns with your long-term goals.” This helps supervisees separate themselves from unhelpful thoughts.
3. Explore Professional Values Together
Ask questions like:
- “What values brought you into this field?”
- “What kind of clinician do you want to be?”
- “Which values feel challenged in this situation?”
Values act as a compass when the path is unclear.
4. Address Avoidance Patterns With Compassion
When a supervisee consistently avoids writing a report, running a difficult program, or giving feedback to an RBT, ACT provides gentle, workable language: “Something uncomfortable might be showing up that’s getting in the way. Let’s explore what that is and how we can take a small step toward what matters.”
No shame. No judgment. Just workable next steps.
5. Invite Willingness
Supervision isn’t about eliminating discomfort – it’s about learning how to move forward with discomfort. You can normalize this by saying things like: “It’s okay to feel unsure. Let’s take the next step anyway.” Willingness builds long-term resilience.
6. Model Self-Reflection in Real Time
If a session didn’t go well, supervisors can model their own reflection: “I noticed I got frustrated when the plan wasn’t working. Next time, I’d like to pause and reset before troubleshooting.” This shows supervisees how to integrate ACT into their own practice.
The field is evolving. Families want compassionate, values-driven support. Clinicians want meaningful growth and sustainable careers. Organizations want teams that communicate well and problem-solve collaboratively.
ACT bridges all of these goals. In other words, clinicians who elevate the profession.
Supervision isn’t just about teaching skills; it’s about shaping how future BCBAs think, relate, and show up for the people they serve. ACT gives us a framework to support not just competent clinicians – but healthy, grounded, values-driven ones.