Exam coaching
Support for aspiring behavior analysts
Studying with Siri

I have been coaching and preparing behavior analysts for state and board certification since 1998, when I was in the first group of behavior analysts to take and pass the certification exam in California. I started my exam preparation services with workshops, and then an online class in 2001, and over the years that class has evolved into an intimate, small group coaching experience. I focus on working with students to improve their studying and exam taking strategies as well as providing content review and clarification. There are many more resources now than there were twenty years ago for accessing content summaries, tutorials, podcasts, videos and so on—my focus is on directing you to the best resources for your needs and teaching you to be judicious and intentional in how you use your limited time for studying. Most of my students are also struggling with test anxiety while trying to balance studying, life, and work, and so the group has a dual focus on studying content along with learning important, evidence-based strategies for working with test anxiety and stress, based on Acceptance and Commitment Training protocols.
The group is structured and organized with weekly study modules, while also remaining flexible to fit your needs. Each week, over the course of 8-9 weeks, you will complete assignments, take practice tests and enjoy the support of live online meetings. Each module includes a well-curated set of references and tips for each of the content areas, and I’m online daily to provide feedback and answer any and all questions via threaded discussion boards.
If the timing of the group isn’t right for you, or you are looking for a customized plan for yourself or your organization, I also offer individual and customized small group coaching that includes the same set of studying materials and practice exams as my regular coaching group.
Group coaching
Beginning in fall 2020, I will be accepting enrollment for exam prep groups on a rolling basis, and running groups when the enrollment list reaches 10 participants. Please contact me to be added to the current enrollment list. The earliest next group offering will begin in January 2021. The cost for the 9 week coaching group, including weekly live meetings, resources, assignment feedback, and asynchronous discussion is $495.
Individual/customized coaching packages
Please contact me to discuss your needs and develop an individualized coaching plan. All packages include structured study materials with practice tests, an initial meeting to create a study plan and review strategies, and follow-up meetings to review content questions, assess progress, and develop further strategies for studying and for taking the exam. Cost begins at $450 for materials plus two individual meetings; additional meetings are priced at $150/hr. Sliding scale available for students in developing countries.
What students say...
“I really struggled with test anxiety, and it was a big barrier for me when taking the exam. I often got caught up in the words of questions or would find myself reading one question over and over again. Siri’s course really helped me to manage my test anxiety and overcome it! I would definitely recommend the course! The break down of the task list is great, breaking down questions and the guidance and strategies are extremely helpful! Thanks Siri!”
—Michelle Wood, BCBA
“I took the course this past summer and passed in August on my first try! Siri was extremely helpful and was able to explain concepts in a way that truly made sense in practice. She gave amazing tips that really helped me the day of the exam. Her practice exam was also amazing as it gave you the task list item that you should refer to. Overall, excellent course and I highly recommend!”
—Carmellina, BCBA
“I took the course after having not passed the BCBA exam a few times. This was exactly what I needed. She did a great job of breaking down the exam, giving you tips, and answering questions. Her quizzes she had on-line prepared me very well for the exam. I would recommend her prep course to anyone about to take the BCBA exam.”
—Shelly Green, BCBA
“I finally passed! Siri’s prep course was just the study strategy I needed to truly apply all of the information and pass the exam. After 2 failed attempts, I decided to sign up for a prep course and Siri’s course provided strategies and knowledge needed. Creating our own questions, interactions on the discussion board and practice tests helped me when thinking through the questions on the exam. Practicing other study strategies suggested by Siri helped me to stay calm, focused and aware of the exam time limit but not obsessed with the time. I will always be grateful to Siri and the rest of my classmates. Thank you for all of your feedback and support throughout the course!”
—Jessica Johnstone, BCBA
“Siri’s study program was exactly what I needed to pass the exam. Other programs offer a way to become fluent with the vocabulary, which is a vital skill, however, Siri’s exams gave much needed practice in the application of exam questions. Creating questions really helps you to think through how the questions are asked on the exam. Lastly, the dreaded “timer” for the exams is a great way to condition yourself for the added pressure for the big exam. Thanks Siri!”
—Candis Coble, BCBA
“Thank you Siri!! I am so happy that I took this course. Siri’s questions really helped me think and study the right way, not just for the test but more importantly in practice before and after passing. Frankly I am sad I am no longer part of the group because I have lost a great network and opportunities to keep reviewing the subject matter. Creating questions, discussions really has informed my practice. The practice test questions were awesome. Thank you, Thank you!!!”
—Josh Kayne, BCBA
“Before I began to work through your review course, I was very, very nervous about whether I would pass the exam. I had been diligent about studying, and was in somewhat of a rut, but did not know how else to prepare. I knew I needed to “know more”, but not how to go about it. Your course gave me that! By the end of the first week of the experience, I felt like I was on the right track. By the end of the experience, I was not nervous about the exam. I entered the exam ready to select correct answers!”
—Bonnie Brock, BCBA
“First of all I would like to thank Siri for the wonderful support that I received from her as well the entire class. A former student of Siri had recommended that I take her class as I had not been successful in passing the exam before. I am so glad I took the class. Siri has such a vast knowledge and mastery over this subject, and her prompt assistance and feedback on where you went wrong is also very beneficial. I would highly recommend this course to anyone who is preparing for the test.”
—Havi Jokhi, BCBA
“I did it! -thanks to Siri’s course! Having failed the exam the first time, I knew I need to do something different and not make the same studying mistakes twice. Instead of using a computer program where you practiced rote memorization of terms, etc; Siri’s course was much more similar to the actual exam. The entire prep course was focused and precise. You aren’t going to waste time studying information that is not likely to be on the exam. Being able to focus my studying helped me to use my time wisely and critically think about ABA situations. Siri teaches you to break down the question and look for what they are really asking you, and not be distracted by useless information. The best part is that you don’t have to spend countless hours preparing (as I had thought before). Walking into the exam, I felt prepared and relaxed. It worked! I will recommend this prep course to everyone I know taking the exam. Thanks Siri!”