This course introduces the fundamentals of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and explores how to integrate it ethically within Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Participants will learn how to apply ACT strategies across developmental milestones, while staying within the scope of ABA practice. The course also reviews practical tools and resources to support the ethical and effective implementation of ACT in behavior analytic programming.
This course exceeds the current BCBA and BCaBA Task Lists by providing instruction in the ethical integration of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) strategies within ABA practiceโcontent not explicitly covered in existing task list items. It is behavior-analytic in nature, grounded in functional contextualism, and directly tied to observable and measurable behavior change. The design is targeted to certified and aspiring behavior analysts, offering advanced applications that extend beyond foundational competencies while maintaining adherence to BACB ethical standards.
Publication Date: June 2025
This Ethics course provides 3 Ethics CEU credits for BACB, QABA, and IBAO.
Author/Speaker
Makenzie is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst dedicated to providing child-centered and innovative ABA services. Makenzie holds degrees in psychology, and child development, along with graduate degrees in both special education and ABA. She has worked in the public school system for over 8 years ensuring students have effective behavior support plans and the skills to be successful in whatever life path brings joy and fulfillment. Additionally, Makenzie Danis is a Certified Sexuality Educator through the Sexual Health Alliance. She believes firmly that all individuals, including through with disabilities, have a right to comprehensive sex education. Makenzie is also trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in both small groups and individual therapy. She is the proud owner of Danis Behavioral Solutions, which provides affirming behavioral support to individuals and families, along with progressive supervision services to future BCBAs.
Instructor Qualifications
Makenzie Danis’ CV
| Requirement Category |
Meets Requirement (โ) |
Evidence / Description |
| โฅ 5 Years of Practical Experience(e.g., direct service delivery, applied practice, professional engagement) |
โ Yes |
Over 9 years of applied professional experience as a BCBA providing behavior-analytic services across school-based, clinical, and community settings. Extensive experience supporting clients across developmental stages using ABA frameworks that incorporate values-based goal setting, flexibility, and coping strategies consistent with ACT principles, while maintaining scope of practice and ethical boundaries within ABA programming. |
| โฅ 3 Years Teaching / Training / Mentoring Experience |
โ Yes |
Extensive experience training and mentoring educators, RBTs, BCBAs, and multidisciplinary teams through leadership roles including Dean of Exceptional Education, Senior BCBA, Network BCBA, and Director-level positions. Has delivered professional development and staff trainings focused on ethical decision-making, scope of competence, intervention design, and integrating complementary frameworks (such as ACT-informed strategies) within ABA practice. |
