Verbal Behavior Associates® (VBA) was pleased to share that President Dr. Heather O’Shea has presented at the 2025 Council of Autism Service Providers (CASP) Annual Conference. Dr. O’Shea’s presentation, titled "Ethical Challenges and Solutions to Seeking Reliable Sources of Information to Remain Compliant with the Practice of ABA Services," was delivered in person at The Westin St. Francis Union Square in San Francisco, California, from May 4–6, 2025.
The Council of Autism Service Providers (CASP) Annual Conference is recognized as one of the leading national events for professionals dedicated to advancing the field of autism services. CASP brings together leaders in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and address emerging issues critical to ethical and effective practice. Dr. O’Shea’s selection reflected her ongoing commitment to ethical standards, evidence-based practices, and professional development within the ABA community.
Dr. O’Shea’s presentation focused on the increasing challenges faced by behavior analysts in sourcing reliable, research-backed information amid a rapidly expanding body of literature and the proliferation of informal and unverified information channels. She examined the ethical risks associated with relying on non-peer-reviewed or non-validated sources and the potential consequences for clinical decision-making and compliance with established ethical guidelines, including those outlined by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®).
The session addressed several key topics essential for ABA practitioners, clinical supervisors, and organizational leaders seeking to enhance their systems for identifying credible resources and maintaining high standards of clinical care. These included strategies for critically evaluating the validity and reliability of information sources, approaches to maintaining compliance with the BACB® Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts, and solutions for navigating the overwhelming volume of information while upholding clinical integrity. Additionally, the session explored methods for fostering an organizational culture centered on ethical information sourcing and professional accountability, as well as the role of continuing education and structured professional development in mitigating ethical risks. Designed with practicality in mind, the session offered frameworks to support ethical decision-making and sustained compliance in dynamic clinical environments.
Verbal Behavior Associates® (VBA) remains at the forefront of promoting ethical excellence in the application of ABA services. Under Dr. O’Shea’s leadership, VBA emphasizes a culture of lifelong learning, data-driven decision-making, and unwavering adherence to ethical standards. The organization’s clinical teams serve a diverse range of clients and are guided by the core principles of client dignity, evidence-based intervention, and collaborative engagement with families and communities.
The 2025 CASP Annual Conference offered a unique opportunity for professionals to learn from national experts, exchange best practices, and engage in critical discussions on the future of autism services. Attendees participated in workshops, breakout sessions, and keynote presentations covering the latest advancements in clinical practice, leadership, operations, and advocacy.
Verbal Behavior Associates® encouraged all ABA providers, organizational leaders, and clinical professionals who attended the CASP Conference to participate in Dr. O’Shea’s session to deepen their understanding of ethical information sourcing and strengthen their commitment to best practices in the delivery of ABA services.
For more information about the 2025 CASP Annual Conference, please visit https://casproviders.org.
For more information about Verbal Behavior Associates® and its commitment to clinical and ethical excellence, please visit https://www.verbalbehaviorassociates.com.
About Verbal Behavior Associates® (VBA)
Verbal Behavior Associates® (VBA) is a premier provider of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services, specializing in individualized, evidence-based treatment for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. VBA is committed to promoting ethical practices, professional development, and client-centered care across all levels of service delivery. Headquartered in San Diego, California, VBA operates with a mission to make meaningful and lasting differences in the lives of its clients and their families through the science of behavior analysis.
Media Contact:
Verbal Behavior Associates®
Email: info@verbalbehaviorassociates.com
Phone: (858) 699-7579
Website: https://www.verbalbehaviorassociates.com
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For more information about Verbal Behavior Associates, contact the company here:
Verbal Behavior Associates
Matthew Howarth
(858) 699-7579
info@vbasandiego.com
