Aligning Behavioral Services with Neuro-Affirming Philosophies (ABSNAP)

ABSNAP Why

The ABSNAP mission is motivated by neurodiverse lived experiences of ABA and inspired by our commitment as behavior service providers to deliver just and socially valid services.

Core Member Why's

Charlotte Johns, M.S., she/her

My Why:

I have had firsthand experience of the trauma inflicted on autistic children through unethical, non-neuro-affirming ABA practices. These experiences deeply affected me and further challenged me to shape systems of care to eliminate harm and foster meaningful, affirming change. I am driven by my own neurodivergence journey and continually inspired by the power of neurodiverse and disabled self-advocates. I believe strongly in ABSNAP’s mission to facilitate an evolving ABA—one that centers lived experiences and prioritizes dignity, respect, and inclusion.

Cindy Andree-Bowen, M.S., she/her/they/them/theirs

Collaborative & Proactive Solution (CPS) Certified Provider

My Why:

Having worked in a small client-centric corner of Applied Behavior Analysis for many years, then witnessing the exponential expansion of access to ABA alongside hearing Autistic concerns about ABA, I felt compelled to do something.

For me, ABSNAP is a wider-reaching platform from which to center the lived experiences and perspectives of neurodivergent consumers of behavioral services, and to equip providers with a lens and tools to provide empowering services.

My hope is that ABSNAP and other neuro-affirming coalitions can advance the field of behavior analysis to enact systems change towards a more inclusive society for all humans.

Jennifer Spencer, MS, BCBA, LBA

My Why:

I joined the ABSNAP Alliance because I believe meaningful change in ABA requires humility, self-reflection, and a genuine commitment to listening to the voices of autistic individuals and other neurodivergent people. As a neurodivergent behavior analyst, I bring both professional and personal perspectives to this work, including lived experiences with trauma that have shaped my understanding of autonomy, safety, and the importance of being heard.

I have seen the profound impact that both affirming and non-affirming approaches can have on quality of life. Through collaboration, I hope to help advance ABA practices that value lived experience alongside empirical evidence and encourage practitioners to engage in ongoing reflection and growth.

Ultimately, I believe behavior analysts have a responsibility to continually challenge assumptions, learn from the people they serve, and ensure that those receiving services have a meaningful voice in shaping the goals, environments, and supports that affect their lives.

Amanda Rissmeyer, MA, BCBA, LBA

My Why:

My "why" for being part of ABSNAP is rooted in a belief that every autistic and neurodiverse person deserves support that honors their dignity, autonomy, and individuality.

Throughout my career, I have learned from autistic individuals, families, and self-advocates whose perspectives have continually challenged me to listen, grow, and evolve my practice and understanding of this work.

ABSNAP's mission resonates deeply with my commitment to advancing a more compassionate, trauma-informed, and neuro-affirming behavior analysis- one that values lived experience, embraces collaboration, and helps create meaningful, lasting change.