From Para to BCBA: Meredith finds balance and impact

Meredith Essey has worked as a BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) for over 20 years. Starting out as a paraprofessional, her curiosity and desire to make a difference led her to the special education field. 

Today as a BCBA with Scoot Education, she supervises RBTs (Registered Behavior Technicians) and trains teachers and paraprofessionals, while maintaining a work-life balance that allows her to thrive both personally and professionally. 

Her story highlights the realities of working in ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) and what it looks like to build a sustainable, fulfilling career in special education. 

How I discovered ABA and chose a career in special education 

I actually found my way into special education by coincidence. I was working toward my master’s in forensic psychology when I took a job as a one-on-one paraprofessional in a special education classroom. It was my first time working with students with autism, and it opened my eyes in a big way. 

I remember feeling both inspired and overwhelmed. The student I worked with had a family that was exploring every possible option for support. That experience made me start asking deeper questions—what approaches are evidence-based? What helps students learn and grow? 

That curiosity led me to ABA. The more I learned, the more I realized this was the path I wanted to pursue. Eventually, I committed to earning my BCBA certification, and that decision shaped everything that followed. 

Becoming a BCBA: Lessons from the front lines 

My journey to becoming a BCBA wasn’t straightforward. I worked multiple jobs while completing the required supervision hours. Along the way, I gained experience in different settings and roles—including working as a behavior therapist and a one-on-one aide. 

Those early experiences deeply influence how I approach my job today. I remember what it felt like to be in those roles—what kind of support I needed, what made a difference, and what didn’t. Now, as a supervisor, I try to provide the same kind of support I once wished for. 

I want the people I supervise—especially RBTs—to feel encouraged, not overwhelmed. When I show up, I want them to feel like I’m there to help, not add more to their plate. 

What It’s like to work as a BCBA across different settings? 

Before joining Scoot, I worked in a variety of environments, and each came with its own challenges. 

In-Home ABA 

Working in homes was challenging. There were frequent cancellations and gaps in the schedule, which made it hard to maintain consistency. Most sessions happened after school hours, so I was often working late into the evening. On top of that, I spent a lot of time managing scheduling and coverage issues. 

Clinic-Based ABA 

Clinic work gave me a more structured schedule—typically 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.—but it lacked flexibility. It was steady, but not always adaptable to personal needs. 

School-Based ABA 

When I started to have a family, I started working in schools, which is really awesome for someone who has a family. The hours are regular and Scoot gives me flexibility over my work schedule. 

How Scoot supports flexibility and autonomy for BCBAs 

I really appreciate the flexibility Scoot offers me. At Scoot, I’m trusted to manage my own schedule. If something comes up—like a doctor’s appointment or a sick child—I can adjust my supervision hours accordingly. 

The process is simple: I communicate with the BCBA coordinator, and we work together to shift my hours while still meeting all requirements. That level of trust and autonomy makes a huge difference. 

It’s not just about convenience—it’s about sustainability. When you have control over your time, you’re able to show up more fully for your students and your team. 

The importance of support in ABA: Why having a BCBA coordinator matters 

As a BCBA or for anyone who works in ABA, it’s easy to feel isolated at times. That’s why having Jillian as a BCBA coordinator has been so nice—not only for handling admin duties, but for collaboration. 

For me, support looks like having someone to collaborate with, especially in complex situations. For example, I’m currently working on a case where multiple agencies are involved, along with the classroom teacher. Situations like this can get complicated quickly—especially when there are IEP meetings and differing opinions. 

Knowing I have someone in my corner who can attend IEP meetings, help clarify roles, advocate for my services, and provide guidance makes a huge difference. It sets boundaries for the school, the student, and parameters for our work, so we don’t get dragged into a potentially contentious IEP meeting. 

Navigating challenges in school-based ABA 

Working in schools comes with its own unique challenges. Unlike in-home settings, you’re part of a larger team that may include occupational therapists, speech therapists, teachers, and other behavior specialists. 

With so many perspectives, working together can be challenging. There’s many different personalities, opinions, and approaches. 

But when everyone is able to set their egos aside and realize we all want the same thing for this child, that’s when I feel the greatest success. 

When we can come together, set up a plan, and genuinely support and incorporate each other’s ideas, it’s incredibly rewarding. I feel like we’re all on the same page—treating the whole child instead of just focusing on our own individual goals for that student. 

Supporting RBTs: How I try to make a difference as a supervisor 

One of my top priorities is supporting the RBTs I supervise. I’ve been in their shoes, and I know how demanding the role can be. 

RBTs often work closely with the same student every day, and that can be both rewarding and exhausting. There could be days when progress feels slow, you can get frustrated, and it’s easy to lose motivation. 

That’s why I try to show up as a source of support and relief. I always tell my RBTs that I supervise, “I hope when you see my face, you’re excited to see me because I’m taking something off your plate.” I want them to feel like I’m there to help problem-solve, step in when needed, and give them a chance to breathe. 

Benefits for Scoot RBTs 

For RBTs looking to meet their supervision hours, it can be a really stressful experience at other places. You’re constantly wondering, “When is my supervisor coming out? Am I going to meet my hours?” 

That anxiety of trying to maintain your RBT certificate takes a toll. But at Scoot, I’m scheduled with each RBT weekly. I’ve never experienced that anywhere else, and it’s so nice to have that weekly check-in. 

It completely eliminates that panic of, “Oh my God, when am I going to see her?” I think that reliable support is a massive plus for any RBT thinking about joining the Scoot team. 

Why I chose Scoot 

When I first heard about Scoot, I was hesitant. I was already in a role I liked, and the opportunity almost seemed too good to be true. 

But after joining, I can honestly say that everything they said during the interview process has been true. Since joining Scoot, it’s been a great place to work. 

What stands out most is the balance. The company genuinely values work-life balance and listens to employee feedback. If something isn’t the right fit, they’re willing to work with you to find a better placement. 

They’re willing to work with RBTs to find a fit they’re comfortable with. I think they value their employees and their experiences. 

Advice for BCBAs and RBTs considering new opportunities 

If you’re thinking about joining Scoot as a BCBA or an RBT, I’d say do it. 

It’s a supportive environment where your needs are taken seriously. You’re not just placed somewhere and expected to make it work—there’s an effort to ensure it’s a good fit. 

For RBTs especially, the consistent supervision is a huge benefit. It removes the stress of wondering whether you’ll meet your hours and provides regular opportunities for feedback and growth. 

Conclusion: A career that supports both staff and students 

Meredith Essey’s journey shows how meaningful a career in ABA can be when the right support systems are in place. 

At Scoot Education, she feels valued and able to find balance in her work and personal well-being, while continuing to drive student success. She proves that it’s possible to do impactful work without sacrificing balance. 

Find support in your BCBA and RBT career

Looking for a more sustainable career in the ABA field? Apply to Scoot Education.

Get your time back to focus on quality care and learning. You’ll get to meet Jillian who supports your career growth. Plus, our Education Consultants will manage billable hours and schedule logistics for you, so you can focus on quality care and learning.

Apply to Scoot Education today to find your balance or explore our BCBA and RBT pages to learn more.

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