From Harm to Healing: Building the Future of ABA with Autistic Voices

Recorded webinar · September 11, 2025 · Presented by Joy F. Johnson

This live webinar offered 1 CEU to attendees at the time of the event.

About this webinar

Are you committed to advancing ABA in ways that are ethical, respectful, and affirming of neurodiversity? Join Special Learning’s Journal Club—a dynamic and interactive space for professionals dedicated to evolving ABA practice through collaboration, inclusion, and authentic engagement with the Autistic community.

In this month’s Journal Club, we will be exploring the article From Harm to Healing: Building the Future of ABA with Autistic Voices by Joy F. Johnson, an Autistic BCBA whose unique perspective bridges lived experience and professional expertise.

About the presenter

Bio: Joy is an Autistic advocate, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), clinical director, adjunct professor, and founder of Spectrum Support. As a Black, Autistic, and Jewish woman, Joy has firsthand experience navigating the systemic harms of ableism, racism, and flawed social validity in ABA, educational systems, and society as a whole. These personal experiences have deeply informed her advocacy and professional mission.

Joy is committed to eradicating ableism and racism in therapeutic settings and beyond, ensuring that Autistic individuals are respected, accommodated, and empowered to live authentically. Her work focuses on redefining therapeutic approaches to align with neurodivergent values, fostering acceptance and inclusion, and advocating for systemic change. Through Spectrum Support, Joy aims to create affirming, culturally responsive, and strengths-based services that celebrate neurodiversity and honor each individual’s unique identity.

Watch the recording and earn CE credit in the Special Learning store →