Episode #289: A Conversation About School-Based SLP and BCBA Services with Dr. Selena J. Layden

The best outcomes happen when we stop working in silos and start learning from each other.

I recently had the chance to be a guest on Dr. Selena J. Layden’s podcast, and I knew I wanted to share our conversation with you because it highlights something I’m deeply passionate about, meaningful collaboration between speech-language pathologists and BCBAs. When we recognize each other’s expertise and work together, we create better outcomes for the students we serve.

We talked about my journey from school-based speech therapy into the world of ABA, how those experiences shaped ABA Speech, and why I believe communication and behavior support are strongest when they are aligned. We also explored common misconceptions between our professions, practical ways to build trust with colleagues, and why curiosity and open communication can go a long way.

One of my favorite parts of our discussion was sharing what I wish every school-based BCBA understood about speech-language pathology. Our training is incredibly broad, and many of us continue developing our expertise long after graduate school. The same is true for BCBAs, which is why ongoing learning and collaboration matter so much.

Whether you’re an SLP, BCBA, educator, or part of an interdisciplinary team, I hope this conversation encourages you to build stronger partnerships that help every student communicate and thrive.

#autism #speechtherapy

Today’s Guest:

Selena J. Layden, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA is an Associate Professor in the Department of Human Movement Studies and Special Education at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA. Dr. Layden also serves as the Executive Director for the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Network and the Executive Director of the Cooperative for Effective Behavior Intervention and Supports. Dr. Layden earned her doctorate degree from the College of William & Mary in Education Policy, Planning, and Leadership with an emphasis in Special Education Administration and her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. Dr. Layden has extensive expertise in behavior and supporting teachers and other educators in Pre-K-12 public schools and has worked in school districts focusing on behavior as well as children with autism. Previously, she was the Assistant Director of Training at the Autism Center for Excellence at Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Layden has published and presented extensively on her research interests focused on providing effective professional development for school personnel, school-based behavior analysts, improving the implementation of evidence-based practices in schools, teacher attrition and retention, and autism. She has received several grants to support this work.

What’s Inside: