The 7 Habits of Highly Effective ABA Providers

At Empowered Kids, we believe that great ABA starts with who we are—not just what we do.

As ABA providers, we often spend an inordinate amount of time in our vehicles. While that can sometimes be a downfall, it also gives us a chance to catch up on our favorite songs, audio books, and podcasts throughout the day.

Recently, I listened to a podcast that was inspired by Stephen Covey’s classic, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People— and it got me thinking: What does it mean to truly be an effective ABA provider? Not just someone who’s technically skilled, but someone who shows up with intention, heart, and purpose—day in and day out—for the kids and families we serve.

So, I sat down and wrote out what I believe makes an ABA provider not just good—but great.

Without further ado, here’s our take on The 7 Habits of Highly Effective ABA Providers—a reflection of what we strive to embody each day at Empowered Kids.

1. They Lead with Heart AND Science

Yes, we love data. But the real magic happens when it’s paired with heart. Our most effective team members use data to guide their decisions—but always center compassion, dignity, and long-term well-being. They never lose sight of the child behind the numbers. While we rely on research-backed interventions and empirical data, we also recognize that heart and science go hand in hand. They’re not opposing forces—they complement one another to create meaningful, lasting impact.

2. They Build Real Relationships

Therapy isn’t a checklist—it’s a relationship. Effective ABA providers at Empowered Kids connect deeply with the kids they support, the parents they partner with, and the colleagues they collaborate with. Trust is the foundation for everything. We deeply value these relationships and intentionally create space to connect with the families we are privileged to support.

3. They Stay Curious and Solution-Focused

Challenges are part of the job—but great providers meet them with curiosity, not defensiveness. They take time to process and respond to challenges that arise rather than being reactive. They ask questions, seek support, and adjust proactively. They don’t just put out fires; they help prevent them by thinking ahead. When solutions aren’t immediately clear, they think creatively, collaborate with others, and always keep the best interests of the child at the center.

4. They’re Lifelong Learners

Our field is constantly evolving, and the best providers evolve with it. Whether it’s diving into a new research article, attending a CEU, or asking for feedback, they stay hungry to grow—for the benefit of the children they serve. Our providers work as part of a team, and we are constantly learning from each other. We seek out others who can support us in new endeavors and mentor us through challenges that may arise.

5. They Individualize Everything

No two kids are the same—and we celebrate those differences. Our programs are built around each child’s strengths, interests, and natural ways of engaging with the world. From reinforcers to prompting strategies to assessment methods, our most effective providers see each child as a unique learner and tailor every piece of their plan accordingly.

6. They Empower Families and Teams

ABA is not meant to stay in the clinic. Effective providers coach parents, uplift RBTs, and collaborate with school teams so that progress extends into the child’s whole world. We don’t teach ‘one right way’—we partner with families to support progress in ways that align with their child’s identity, values, and community. Empowering others is how we create ripple effects of progress that reach far beyond the walls of our center. Highly effective ABA providers understand that lasting change happens when we build a strong, supportive village.

7. They Protect Their Energy

Because great providers strive to do this work with intention and compassion, burnout can become a real risk. We recognize that we can’t take care of others if we don’t take care of ourselves first. Great providers model the same regulation and balance we hope to teach. They set healthy boundaries, ask for help when needed, and prioritize self-care—because you can’t show up fully for others if you’re running on empty.

At Empowered Kids, these aren’t just habits—they’re our culture.

We know that effectiveness isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up each day with intention, integrity, and the belief that every child has the potential to thrive. These habits aren’t just goals—they’re daily practices that keep us grounded, connected, and committed. If you're a fellow provider or parent, we hope they resonate with you, too!