Mary Barbera

About the Author

Mary Barbera, PhD, BCBA-D, is a renowned clinical psychologist and board-certified behavior analyst with over three decades of experience in supporting children with autism and related developmental disorders. Drawing from her early career as a speech-language pathologist and her personal journey as a parent of a son with autism, she has dedicated her professional life to developing practical, evidence-based strategies that empower families and educators. Barbera's innovative Verbal Behavior Approach, rooted in B.F. Skinner's principles, emphasizes functional communication to foster language development and reduce challenging behaviors. Through her clinical practice, international workshops, and accessible resources, she continues to transform lives by making behavioral interventions approachable and effective for everyday use.