How To Find Your First Client As An Independent BCBA

Finding your first client as an independent BCBA can feel daunting. Without the built-in referrals that come with working for a large organization, you must rely on your own marketing efforts and relationship-building skills.

However, families often find it refreshing to partner with an independent BCBA rather than a big, faceless company. The personal touch, flexibility, and direct communication that an independent provider offers can be incredibly appealing to parents searching for the right therapy for their child.

This guide will walk you through effective strategies to create awareness, engage families, and turn them into advocates for your services.

Step 1: Identify Key Referral Sources

To grow your independent ABA practice, you need strong relationships with local professionals who regularly interact with families of children with autism. Research and compile a list of key referral sources in your area, including:

• Pediatricians

• Autism Evaluators

• Speech Therapists

• Occupational Therapists

• Daycare Centers

• Schools (Public & Private)

• Parent Support Groups

• Special Needs Advocates

• Educators seeking behavioral support

• Guardians of children needing early intervention

As an independent BCBA, you have the opportunity to offer a more personalized approach, which can set you apart from larger companies. Building trust with these professionals will enhance your client acquisition and credibility within the community.

Step 2: Make Initial Contact

Once you have identified potential referral sources, it’s time to reach out. Here are some conversation starters and outreach templates to help you establish meaningful connections.

Open-Ended Conversation Starters

• “What challenges are you facing in finding the right support for your child?”

• “Have you heard about ABA therapy before? What are your thoughts on it?”

• “What kind of support do you wish was available for families in this area?”

Phone Call Pitch

Goal: Introduce yourself as an independent BCBA and establish a relationship.

Example Script:
Hi [Name], this is [Your Name], an independent BCBA in [Your City]. I specialize in providing high-quality ABA therapy tailored to each child’s unique needs. I know that families often turn to you for guidance on therapy options, and I’d love to introduce myself and see how we might support the families you work with.

Unlike larger companies, I provide a highly individualized approach, ensuring families receive direct communication and customized therapy plans. I’d love to explore how we can collaborate to support more families.

Would you be open to a quick meeting or call?

Thank you for your time! I’d love to follow up with more details—what’s the best way to send you information?

Email Outreach Template

Subject: Supporting Families with Autism – Let’s Connect

Dear [Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am an independent BCBA providing personalized ABA therapy to children with autism. I know that families often turn to professionals like you for guidance on therapy options, and I’d love the opportunity to connect.

As an independent provider, I can offer families a more flexible, personalized experience compared to large ABA companies. I specialize in [mention key services], and my goal is to ensure a seamless experience for families seeking support. I’d love to schedule a brief call or meeting to explore how we can work together to help more children access the services they need.

Please let me know a convenient time to connect, or I’m happy to send over more information.

Looking forward to speaking soon!

Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Info]
[Website URL]

Step 3: Follow Up & Nurture Relationships

• Send a follow-up email if you haven’t heard back in 5-7 days.

• Attend local events where these professionals gather (e.g., pediatric conferences, parent support groups, or special education meetings).

• Provide value by sharing relevant resources, inviting them to educational sessions, or offering co-branded community events.

By consistently building relationships, you can position yourself as a trusted independent provider, leading to steady client referrals. Many families prefer working with independent BCBAs due to the personalized approach and direct communication you offer.

Step 4: Leverage Online Channels

Google My Business (GMB) Optimization

A well-optimized GMB profile increases visibility, builds credibility, and drives inquiries from local families.

1️⃣ Claim & Verify Your Listing

• Go to Google My Business and sign in.

• Search for your practice. If it exists, claim the listing; if not, create a new one.

• Enter your business details and verify your listing.

2️⃣ Optimize Your Profile for Maximum Visibility

• Business Name – Use your full name and credentials (e.g., "[Your Name], BCBA – ABA Therapy").

• Business Category – Select “Autism Therapist” or “Behavioral Health Services.”

• Service Areas – List all the cities and neighborhoods you serve.

• Hours of Operation – Keep them updated, including holiday hours.

• Contact Information – Ensure your phone number and website are correct.

• Services Offered – Clearly list key services (e.g., in-home ABA, parent training, school collaboration).

Other Online Directories

• Psychology Today

• Zocdoc

• Healthgrades

• GoodTherapy

• FindMyTherapist

Keeping your profiles updated with accurate contact details and service descriptions will increase your visibility and credibility among potential clients.

Step 5: Engage with Parents via Social Media

Leveraging Facebook Groups

We recommend posting on both personal and professional profiles, as well as in Facebook groups. As a new professional page, you may not have a huge follower base (and that’s totally okay)! In the meantime, you can use Facebook groups to get in front of potential clients.

How to Find Facebook Groups

Try searching for these keywords while filtering for groups:

• Autism Parent Support

• Special Needs Parenting

• Autism Moms/Dads/Caregivers

• Parents of Children with Autism

• Special Needs Families

• Autism Support [Your City/State]

• Special Education & IEP Support

Once you join groups, read the guidelines to ensure self-promotion is allowed. Some groups only allow business posts on specific days. Engage with posts, answer questions, and provide valuable insights before sharing your services.

What to Post

• Educational Awareness – Share posts about ABA therapy benefits and early intervention.

• FAQs Series – Address common concerns and invite parents to ask questions.

• Success Stories & Tips – Provide useful parenting strategies related to ABA.

By leveraging Facebook groups, you can connect directly with parents who are actively seeking support for their children.

Conclusion

Finding your first client as an independent BCBA may seem overwhelming at first, but by leveraging referrals, building relationships, and optimizing your online presence, you’ll gain traction. Families often prefer working with independent BCBAs because they provide a personalized, flexible approach that large companies can’t match. By engaging in community outreach, leveraging testimonials, and maintaining a strong social media presence, you can effectively grow your practice. Start today, and watch your impact grow!