ABA Staff Turnover Is Still Out of Control — Here’s What the Data Says

If you’ve been in the ABA field for more than a minute, you already know turnover is a massive issue. But the latest data makes it clear: this isn’t just a problem—it’s a crisis.

The Numbers Are Brutal

• CentralReach 2025 Report (via ABA Resource Center)
  - Small organizations: 77.4% turnover
  - Mid-size organizations: 89.3% turnover
  - Enterprise organizations: 103.3% turnover
  Source
• Behavioral Health Business (BHB)
  - 104% turnover at large organizations
  Source
• BHCOE 2022 Report (via ABA Matrix)
  - 65% average turnover, 1 year median tenure for BTs/RBTs
  Source
• Apploi Analysis
  - 65% turnover, most staff leave within 1–2 years
  Source
• Autism Spectrum News
  - Burnout among RBTs/BTs: 70.7% to 77% annually
  Source

Why It Matters

High turnover wrecks culture, disrupts client care, drains supervisors, and burns money. Most ABA companies can’t afford to keep losing staff this fast. It’s not just inefficient—it’s unsustainable.

Real Talk from the Podcast: “I Hate My Job” Series

We tackled this head-on in a four-part podcast series. These episodes give space to the professionals who are fed up—and provide ideas for real change:

• Episode 84 – I Hate My Job Series Kickoff
  Burnout and unethical practices in ABA with guests from Unique Pathways and Innovative Behavior Options.
• Episode 114 – Exploring Real Solutions
  Moving from complaints to action, including leadership changes and accountability.
• Episode 112 – Real Stories of Ethical Dilemmas
  Common ethical conflicts and how they tie into turnover and staff dissatisfaction.
• Episode 111 – Voicing the Frustrations of ABA Professionals
  Real stories from the field about burnout, ignored feedback, and broken systems.

Want to See the Damage for Yourself?

Use our free tool to find out how much turnover is costing you:

👉 Try the ABA Turnover Rate Calculator

What Can Be Done (And How We Can Help)

This isn’t a quick fix, but there are proven strategies. Our ABA Business Leaders platform gives you the tools to:

• Create growth paths for your team
• Implement transparent raise structures
• Provide meaningful training and development

Quick Wins You Can Start Today

• Develop career ladders for RBTs and BTs
• Support supervisors with tools and training
• Strengthen your onboarding process
• Use staff feedback to make real changes
• Be intentional with hiring—don't just fill shifts

Final Word

You don’t have to accept high turnover as “just part of ABA.” With the right systems and support, it can change—and we’re here to help you do it.