New quiz: What type of parent are you when behavior gets hard? → take it now
welcome, friend

Every behavior is trying to tell you
something.

I help families and professionals understand the WHY behind behavior — so kids can be truly seen, and the people who love them can stop guessing.

BCBA + IBA Board Certified
10+ years in early intervention
200+ families guided to clarity
EN/PT bilingual support

approved continuing education provider

CEUs for Behavior Analysts
free 2-minute quizzes

find your style.

Two quizzes. Pick the one for you. Get instant insight + a free guide built around your result.

does this sound familiar?

You've tried everything.

And nothing seems to be working. I see you.

🤯

The meltdowns are getting worse.

Time-outs aren't working. Sticker charts have failed. You don't know what's "right" anymore.

😞

You feel guilty. All the time.

Like you're either too strict or too soft. Like you're failing them. Like nobody truly gets it.

🤐

Your therapist says "non-compliant."

But you know your child. Something deeper is happening — and you wish someone would help you see it.

😴

You're exhausted from guessing.

Why does this happen? What did I do wrong? When does it get easier? You deserve real answers.

There's a different way to do this. Let me show you.

Show me the way →
the shift

Here's what changes when behavior finally makes sense.

"Why is my kid doing this?!"
"I see what they're communicating."
Yelling, time-outs, exhaustion.
Connection, calm, clarity.
Feeling like a "bad parent."
Trusting your gut again.
Following advice that doesn't fit.
Strategies built around YOUR child.

— it's possible. -S

FREE GUIDES

Two free guides.
Built for who you are.

Whether you're navigating behavior at home or in a session — pick the guide that fits. Or take the quiz and we'll send you the right one.

FOR PARENTS

5 Phrases That Stop Meltdowns Before They Escalate

  • What to say when nothing else is working
  • The phrase that calms a dysregulated child
  • How to validate feelings AND hold limits
  • Real scripts for real moments
  • For parents of kids ages 0-10
Get my parent type + guide →
FOR BTs + BCBAs

The BT Survival Guide

  • How to listen to a client who can't use words
  • What to do when a session falls apart
  • How to talk to a BCBA who doesn't support you
  • 3 questions to ask before every session
  • How to know if a behavior plan makes sense
Get my behavior style + guide →

Both guides are 100% free. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime. ♡

how I help

three paths. same mission.

parent coaching

For exhausted, hopeful parents.

  • 1:1 personalized support
  • Real strategies, not generic advice
  • Built around YOUR child
  • Bilingual: English or Portuguese
book a discovery call →

professional training

For BCBAs, QABAs + BTs ready to evolve.

  • CEUs for BCBAs + QABAs
  • PDUs for RBTs + BTs
  • Affirming, evidence-based
  • Available now
join the waitlist →

BCBA supervision

For values-aligned candidates.

  • Affirming, person-first approach
  • Modern, evidence-based
  • Personalized mentorship
  • Limited spots — apply now
apply for supervision →
real stories

what families and professionals actually say

★★★★★

"Stephanie helped me see my son as a whole person, not a collection of behaviors. That shift changed our entire family dynamic. I trust myself again."

M
Maria R.
Mom of 4-year-old
★★★★★

"I was burning out as a new BCBA until I started supervision with Stephanie. She helped me find my voice and trust my values. I'm a better clinician — and human."

J
J. Lopes
BCaBA, supervisee
★★★★★

"As an RBT, I was lost. Stephanie taught me how to actually CONNECT with my clients, not just collect data. My sessions feel meaningful now."

S
Sara P.
RBT, 2 years experience
your photo here
meet stephanie

BCBA, IBA, mama —
and someone who decided to be part of the change.

Portuguese-American, bilingual, and over a decade into work I stumbled into by accident. A job posting. An application. And from day one, I knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be.

As a BT I worked under BCBAs who were exceptional — and some who weren't. Watching the difference that made — for the BTs, for the families, for the kids — I decided I didn't want to be a bystander. That decision still drives everything I do.

read my full story →
questions

you might be wondering...

Is this only for autistic kids?+

Not at all. While I specialize in early intervention and have extensive experience with autistic children, my approach works for ALL children navigating big emotions, behavior challenges, or transitions. If your child has feelings, behaviors, and a need to be understood — this is for you.

What ages do you work with?+

My main focus is ages 0-5 (early intervention years), but the principles apply to older children too. If you're working with kids of any age and want to understand behavior on a deeper level, my content and trainings will serve you.

I'm not a parent — I'm a BCBA/BT. Is this for me?+

Yes! A huge part of my work is supporting professionals in our field who want to do this work better. I supervise BCBA candidates, train BTs, and offer CEUs for BCBAs + QABAs and PDUs for RBTs. My approach is affirming, evidence-based, and modern.

Do you work with families internationally?+

Yes! I serve families in the USA, Portugal, Brazil, and across Europe. My services are offered in English and Portuguese. Wherever you are, if my approach resonates, I'd love to connect.

What makes your approach different?+

I focus on the WHY behind behavior, not just the WHAT. Traditional approaches often prioritize compliance over connection. I prioritize understanding, autonomy, and dignity. My work is affirming, person-centered, and built on the belief that all behavior is communication.

How do I get started?+

Easy! Start with the free guide. Then follow me on Instagram for weekly content. When you're ready to work together, send me an email at hello@stephanielistens.com.

Find out what kind of parent or professional you are.

Take the 2-minute quiz. Get your result. Receive your free guide. All in one place.

listening always, -S ♡

get in touch

Let's talk.

Whether you're a parent looking for support, a BT or BCBA ready to work together, or just someone curious about my approach — I'd love to hear from you.

  • Parent coaching

    Tell me about your child and what you're navigating.

  • BCBA supervision

    Apply for supervision or ask about availability.

  • CEU early access

    Get first pick + a discount when courses launch August 2026.

  • Something else

    Collaborations, speaking, agencies, or just to say hi.

listening always,
-S ♡

✨ Take the parent quiz