Should a BCBA Always Own the Clinic? Maybe Not.
When it comes to ABA practice ownership, there’s a long-standing assumption: the best clinics are owned and operated by BCBAs. But is that always true?
In this episode of the 3 Pie Squared – ABA Business Leaders podcast, we’re joined by Jennifer Helten, founder of Unique Pathways, to explore a bold perspective: maybe non-clinicians can (and do) run incredibly ethical, high-quality, child-focused ABA practices.
What You’ll Learn
Jennifer shares her powerful origin story, one that began not in a clinic, but in a family grieving the loss of a child. That moment sparked her lifelong advocacy for kids. From becoming a behavior therapist in the 90s to founding her own center decades later, her approach has always been about putting children first—long before business or billables.
- The pros and cons of BCBA vs. non-BCBA clinic ownership
- Why profit and quality don’t have to be at odds
- How to build strong partnerships between clinical and business leaders
- The operational benefits of a clear, collaborative leadership structure
- How clear communication and a shared mission drive both clinical excellence and sustainability
A Model That Works
Jennifer explains her partnership with her clinical director—a model built on trust, clear roles, and mutual respect. She handles administration and operations; he leads clinical strategy. Both are fully aligned on one principle: the child comes first.
Rather than defaulting to rigid categories of ownership, Jennifer encourages ABA business owners to consider something deeper—the “why” behind your practice. When the mission is clear, the model can be flexible. And sometimes, not being the clinician in the room can offer a broader lens on what’s needed most.
Don’t Miss This Key Insight
Sustainability isn’t just about profits or systems. It’s about preventing burnout. And as Jennifer, April, and Stephen all point out—you can’t wear every hat forever. Whether you’re a BCBA or not, building a team, defining lanes of responsibility, and prioritizing leadership development are the real keys to a long-lasting practice.
Resources Mentioned
- 🎯 Starting a practice? Download our free ABA Business Start-Up List here.
- 📘 Grow your leadership and connect with other ABA business owners: Join the ABA Business Leaders Membership – includes 34 CEUs and expert panels.
Meet Our Guest
Jennifer Helten
Founder, Unique Pathways
Jennifer’s passion for ABA comes from a personal story of loss, advocacy, and resilience. She founded Unique Pathways to give kids a voice, empower families, and change lives—one child at a time.
