What Makes a Great ABA Consultant? 7 Key Qualities to Look For
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) can make a life-changing difference for autistic individuals and those with learning or behavioural challenges.
The quality and impact of any ABA programme are shaped first and foremost by the consultant guiding it.
Whether you’re a parent seeking support for your SEN child, a school looking to embed inclusive practices, or a local authority commissioning Autism services, choosing the right ABA consultant is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
So, what exactly makes a great ABA consultant?
Here are seven key qualities to look for.
1. Board Certification and Strong Credentials
A qualified ABA consultant should be a Board-Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA)/ UKBA (cert) or hold an equivalent recognised certification. This ensures they’ve completed rigorous academic training, supervised fieldwork, and passed a comprehensive exam.
Tip: Ask about their qualifications and ongoing professional development - great consultants never stop learning.
2. Experience with a Variety of Autism & Special Needs and Settings
Every individual is unique, and a consultant’s experience should reflect that. Look for someone who has worked in home, school, and community settings, and with people of varying ages and needs.
This breadth of experience equips them to tailor ABA techniques and problem-solve creatively when challenges arise.
3. A Person-Centred, Values-Led Approach
The best ABA consultants don’t just follow a textbook. They focus on the person behind the programme - respecting dignity, preferences, and cultural background.
A great consultant will involve the individual and their family in planning, set meaningful goals, and celebrate progress in ways that matter to the person receiving support.
4. Clear, Compassionate Communication
ABA can be full of technical terms, but a skilled consultant will make concepts easy to understand for parents, teachers, and support staff.
They’ll listen actively, explain strategies without jargon, and provide feedback in a constructive, kind and supportive manner.
5. Autism Evidence-Based and Ethical Practice
ABA is most effective when it’s grounded in research-backed strategies. A great consultant uses data to guide decisions, regularly monitors progress, and adjusts plans when needed.
They’ll also adhere to the BACB’s Professional and Ethical Compliance Code, ensuring techiques are safe, respectful, and in the individual’s best interest.
6. Strong Collaboration Skills
Successful ABA programmes often involve multiple stakeholders - parents, teachers, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and more.
A great ABA consultant knows how to work as part of a team, valuing everyone’s input and ensuring techniques are consistent across environments.
7. Dedication and Genuine Care
Perhaps the most important quality: they truly care about the people they work with.
Successful ABA consultants are driven by a passion for empowering autistic and neurodivergent individuals. They celebrate each person’s unique strengths and go the extra mile to support meaningful, life-changing growth.
Finding the right ABA consultant can feel overwhelming, but focusing on these seven key qualities will help you choose a professional who can make a real difference.
Our team at All Behaviour Consultancy, led by Georgiana Koyama, MSc, BCBA, embodies these values every day.
With over 23 years of experience, we change lives with compassionate, evidence-based Autism & Special Needs Behaviour Support.
If you’re looking for expert ABA guidance, get in touch today and let’s discuss how we can support you.
