✨ Free guide: The BT Survival Guide — what training didn't teach you → grab it here
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
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 GUIDE

The BT Survival Guide
what your training didn't teach you

For BTs, RBTs, and new BCBAs who feel undertrained or unsupported. The real stuff no one told you about actually working with clients.

  • ✓ How to listen to a client who can't use words
  • ✓ What to do when a session completely falls apart
  • ✓ How to talk to a BCBA who doesn't support you
  • ✓ The 3 questions to ask before every session
  • ✓ How to know if a behavior plan actually makes sense
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
  • Launching August 2026
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/PDUs (launching August 2026). 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.

You learned ABA. Now learn how to actually use it.

The training gap is real. This guide is the bridge. Free, for you, right now.

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listening always, -S ♡

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