As a Behavior Technician (BT), you might find yourself becoming a “friend” to families—especially in home‑based programs where you see learners daily. While rapport is crucial, blurring professional lines can undermine therapy, ethics, and even your safety. Here’s how to strike the right balance between warmth and professionalism.
1. Understand “Multiple Relationships”
The BACB Ethics Code warns against multiple relationships—when you hold both a therapeutic role and another personal role with a learner or their family. Such overlaps can:
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Compromise your objectivity
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Confuse expectations (“Am I their coach…or their friend?”)
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Risk when the personal relationship sours
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Reduce the learner’s trust in the therapy process
Key Takeaway: If you start wearing two hats, you risk both the relationship and the learner’s progress.
2. Be Clear About Your Role from Day One
✔️ Introduce Yourself Professionally:
“Hi, I’m Alex, a Behavior Technician. I’m here to implement [BCBA] Dr. Lee’s plan and collect data.”
✔️ Set Session Boundaries:
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Sessions focus on therapy goals, not household chats
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Offer friendly small talk—but avoid personal ask‑back (“How was your weekend?” is okay; “What are your weekend plans?” can drift into personal territory)
3. Guard Your Digital Footprint
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No “friending” on Facebook, Instagram, or personal WhatsApp groups
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Avoid commentary or “likes” on family‑posted photos
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Use official channels (clinic email, approved messaging apps) for scheduling or updates
A single social media “like” can erode confidentiality and slip you into a dual relationship.
4. Navigate Invitations with Tact
If a parent says, “We consider you part of the family—come over for dinner!”, respond with gratitude and a gentle boundary:
“Thank you so much—that’s very kind. Right now, I’m focused on supporting during therapy sessions, but I truly appreciate the invitation.”
This acknowledges warmth yet restates your professional focus.
5. Escalate & Debrief When Boundaries Blur
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Notify your supervisor immediately if a caregiver pushes for personal advice or invites you outside therapy.
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Debrief in your next team huddle to clarify best responses and reinforce ethical practice.
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Use these moments as learning opportunities: What language kept the relationship professional? What slipped?
6. Keep Therapy Effective & Ethical
By maintaining respectful distance, you:
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Protect the learner’s emotional safety
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Ensure interventions remain consistent and data‑driven
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Preserve your own well‑being and professional reputation
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Demonstrate the highest ethical standards in ABA practice
Action Step
Today, review your top three family interactions and ask yourself:
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Did I stay focused on therapy goals?
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Did I avoid personal disclosures or social invites?
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If I slipped, how can I set a clearer boundary next time?
Boundaries aren’t walls—they’re the guardrails that keep therapy on track and relationships strong. By steering clear of multiple relationships and digital overshares, you’ll build trust, respect, and extraordinary outcomes for every learner.