Presentation Overview

Beyond Pairing: Relationship as the Foundation for Learning

RBTs are the glue of ABA. You are what makes progress possible, and yet one of the most powerful tools you bring to every session is rarely talked about: relationship building. In this presentation, RBTs will explore how the relationship built with clients, grounded in the values of compassion, curiosity, and humility, becomes the foundation for learning and trust. Attendees will move beyond pairing as a technique and into the importance of trust, safety, and mutual respect, with real-world examples and practical strategies that can be applied immediately. Through honest reflection and relatable scenarios, RBTs will leave with a renewed understanding of why the therapeutic relationship is not just the starting point for this work, but the heart of it. Whether brand new to the field or bringing years of experience, this presentation will remind RBTs that who they are in the room matters just as much as what they are running.

Learning Objectives

What you'll learn...after completing this presentation, participants will be able to

  • Explain why genuine connection and the therapeutic relationship are the foundation for learning and trust and why this matters more than any single program or reinforcer in their session.

  • Identify at least two observable, in-session behaviors that reflect the values of compassion, curiosity, and humility when working with clients.

  • Describe one specific way they can shift their own behavior in session to move from transactional pairing toward values-based, connection-first interactions with clients.

Continuing Education

The NDBI Navigator is an approved continuing education provider for the BACB, QABA, and IBAO.

Professionals from other disciplines will receive a professional development certificate, which they can submit to their respective licensing boards for consideration.

Your Presenter

Nicole Skotz, MS, BCBA

Nicole Skotz, M.S., BCBA, is a behavior analyst and ADHD coach with over 15 years of experience supporting neurodiverse teens and adults. She is the founder of Momentum ADHD Coaching and specializes in the intersection of behavior analysis, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and executive functioning. Central to Nicole's work is the belief that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation of meaningful outcomes. She emphasizes building relationships based on trust and respect as a core skill. One that shapes every interaction and drives lasting behavior change. Her work focuses on helping individuals with ADHD and anxiety understand how their brains work so they can build clarity and confidence to move forward. Alongside her coaching practice, Nicole designs and delivers continuing education workshops that make topics like ACT and ADHD practical and immediately applicable for behavior analysts. Nicole is committed to expanding opportunities for behavior analysts to work within and meaningfully disseminate ACT and ADHD frameworks in an accessible, approachable way.

Presentation Content

  1. 1

    • About the Presentation

    • Meet Nicole Skotz

    • Professional Practice Reminder

    • Video: Beyond Pairing: Relationship as the Foundation for Learning

    • Presentation Handout

    • Quiz

    • Survey