I’ve spent most of my career working in the in-home setting as an ABA therapist and BCBA. Between driving from client to client, writing reports, and constantly being on the go, I quickly realized I needed systems that kept me organized, efficient, and feeling like my best self.
Here are 10 things that genuinely make my day-to-day easier:
1. The Mint That Saved My 3PM Sessions
I’m pretty sensitive to caffeine, and somehow coffee affects me differently every time. Instead of risking a crash mid-session, I started using caffeine mints...and they’ve been a game changer. They’re convenient, easy to keep in your bag or car. Each mint is just 40mg of caffeine, so just enough for a little boost and focus!
Neuro Energy & Focus Mints $24.79
2. No More “I Forgot to Print That” Moments
If you’re constantly on the go, a portable printer is a must.
Being able to print materials, worksheets, or visuals on the spot has saved me more times than I can count. It fits easily in my work bag or car and makes me feel so much more prepared walking into sessions. I also love that this printer has wireless capabilities and prints in both color and BW
Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Printer $219.99
3. Because Every Clinic is Freezing
Are you even a BCBA without an emotional support cardigan?
I always keep a cozy knit sweater in my car. It’s perfect for freezing clinics, overly air-conditioned homes, and can even double as a blanket if you need a quick power nap between sessions 😅. I love that this sweater is oversized, chunky, AND has pockets!
Merokeety Chunky Knit Sweater $29.69
4. What I Eat Between Clients When There’s No Time for Real Food
On days when I’m running late or stacked with back-to-back sessions, having something quick on hand is everything.
These snack bars have been a lifesaver. They’re made with clean ingredients, actually keep me full, and help me avoid the “closest McDonalds to me” trap.
Larabar Fruit & Nutbar $17.98
5. Because I Was Playing All Day and Forgot to Drink Water
If water isn’t in my hand, I forget to drink it—simple as that.
Electrolyte packets have helped me stay hydrated, especially on more active days. They taste good, are easy to carry, and make a noticeable difference in my energy. I love this brand because they have so many fun and delicious flavors, in addition to being made with simple, clean ingrediants.
Santa Cruz Paleo Electrolyte Powder $25.49
6. When You Realize You Shouldn’t Be Living Off Fast Food
I used to rely on whatever fast food was closest between clients...and I felt it.
Meal prepping has made a huge difference, and having a reliable cooler keeps everything fresh throughout the day, even sitting in my car. It’s one of the simplest changes that had the biggest impact on how I feel.
Hydro Flask Insulated Lunch Bag $49.95
7. For When the Unexpected Happens
If you know, you know.
Having a spare set of clothes (and shoes) in your car is non-negotiable in this field. Spills, accidents, or anything in between. You’ll be glad you planned ahead.
8. My Personal Climate Control
The Sacramento heat is no joke...especially when you have gaps between clients.
Sometimes I don’t want to sit in a café. I just want to rest, reset, or take a quick nap in my car. A portable fan makes those in-between moments way more comfortable and actually usable.
Aecooly Slim Portable Fan $8.49
9. Low Tech, High Impact
One of the simplest things I carry is also one of the most useful: a small whiteboard and dry erase marker.
It’s perfect for parent coaching, working 1:1 with clients, or even training staff. As a visual person, having something to quickly map things out makes communication so much easier.
Amazon Basics Small Dry Erase Whiteboard and Marker $7.33
10. How I Manage My Life Without Losing My Mind
Okay… shameless plug, but this one had to make the list.
I created a planner specifically designed for BCBAs because I couldn’t find one that actually worked for how my brain functions. It helps me keep track of CEUs, daily/weekly/monthly tasks, supervision, client schedules, and everything in between.
I even made three different versions so you can choose what fits your workflow best.
-
2026 ABA Planner for BCBAs & Case Supervisors
- $24.99
- Paperback
- Fun, bright retro style theme
- Includes: year at a glance, CEU tracker, client info page, Client weekly schedule, monthly calendar, monthly/ weekly to-do list, daily notes, track assessments, supervision, treatment planing, 48 pages of lined note pages
- 2026 Daily, Weekly, Monthly BCBA Planner
-
- Paperback ($39.99) and Hardback ($74.99)
- Boho aesthetic
- Includes year at a glance, CEU tracker, client info page, Client weekly schedule, monthly calendar, monthly/ weekly to-do list, daily Schedu;e, track assessments, supervision, treatment planing, daily + hourly schedule pages, lined note pages
-
- Paperback (419.99) and Hardback ($49.99)
- Exactly the same as the planner above, minus the daily schedule pages.
