Technology is rapidly transforming behavioral health and ABA services – but is it actually helping clinicians deliver better care?

In this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, Tim Zercher sits down with Melissa Kozak, BCBA, founder of Kozak Consulting and Clinical Partnership Consultant at Therapprove. With nearly 20 years of experience across schools, clinics, homes, and community settings, Melissa shares a clinician’s perspective on how technology should support – not complicate – real-world care.

Melissa discusses the gap between how systems are built and how services are actually delivered in the field. She also explores the rise of caregiver-supported models, the growing role of AI in documentation and clinical workflows, and why many clinicians are moving toward specialized and independent practice models.

They also dive into marketing and growth strategies in the ABA space, including why relationship-driven partnerships still outperform many traditional marketing tactics – and why ethical growth matters more than ever.

If you're a practice owner, BCBA, or behavioral health leader navigating new technology, workforce challenges, or growth strategies, this conversation offers practical insights from someone who operates both in the field and inside the tech ecosystem.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Where technology often fails clinicians in real-world settings
 • Why caregiver support tools are becoming essential in ABA services
 • How AI transcription and automation may reduce documentation burden
 • Why specialization is shaping the future of ABA careers
 • How relationship-driven growth beats transactional marketing
 • What practice owners should be cautious about when adopting new technology