Closing an ABA business is a monumental decision. Whether it's for personal reasons, burnout, or shifting career goals, transitioning out of practice ownership brings both challenges and opportunities. In this episode of 3 Pie Squared - ABA Business Leaders Podcast, we talk with Mallory Stinger, BCBA, about her experience closing her ABA company, the emotions that came with it, and what comes next.

The Emotional Side of Closing an ABA Practice

For many ABA business owners, their company is more than just a business—it’s part of their identity. Letting go can come with feelings of loss, self-doubt, and even guilt. Mallory shares how she navigated these emotions and the importance of having support and a plan in place before making such a big transition.

Knowing When It’s Time to Transition

While every business owner’s journey is different, there are common signs that it might be time to step away or restructure your role. We discuss:

• Burnout and stress levels—how to recognize when it's affecting your well-being.
• Work-life balance—why sacrificing everything for your business isn’t sustainable.
• Business growth and scalability—understanding if continuing is the right decision.

Creating an Exit Plan for Your ABA Business

One of the key takeaways from this discussion is that every ABA business owner should have an exit strategy from the start. Whether you plan to sell, transition leadership, or close, having a clear roadmap ensures you’re prepared when the time comes.

➡️ Need guidance on ABA practice management, growth, and exit strategies? Join the ABA Business Leaders Membership for expert insights and 34 CEUs to help you navigate every stage of ABA business ownership. Learn more here.

What’s Next After Closing?

For Mallory, stepping away from ownership didn’t mean leaving the field of ABA. She is now focusing on new opportunities, including CEU development and professional collaboration. Many ABA professionals find that closing their practice opens doors to consulting, mentoring, and other impactful roles in the field.

Resources for ABA Business Owners

• 📌 Thinking about starting an ABA practice? Make sure you have everything you need. Download our free ABA Business Start-Up List here.
• 📌 Looking for expert guidance on running and growing your ABA business? Join the ABA Business Leaders Membership for exclusive resources. Explore membership options here.
• 📌 Need help with compliance, rate negotiations, or employee handbooks? Check out our full list of ABA business resources here.

Final Thoughts

Closing an ABA business is a big decision, but it doesn’t mean the end of your impact in the field. Whether you’re stepping away, restructuring, or just considering your long-term plans, having a strategy and support system is essential.

🎧 Listen to the full conversation with Mallory Stinger here: [Insert podcast/blog link]

💬 Have you thought about your ABA business exit strategy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!