Compassion Fatigue and Coping Strategies Among Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapists: Basis for Enhancement Support Program

Abstract

This mixed-method study explored the levels, predictors, and lived experiences of compassion fatigue among Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapists, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide a comprehensive understanding of their professional well-being. Sequential explanatory design was implemented involving 88 full time ABA therapists. Quantitative data were measured using the Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL) while qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews. Quantitative findings high level of compassion satisfaction (M=42.62) and low levels of burnout (M=20.46) and secondary traumatic stress (M=21.39), suggesting that while ABA therapists experience strong professional fulfillment, subtle emotional strain persists, particularly among those deeply engaged in client care. Also, the coefficients analysis identified sex as the only significant predictor of compassion fatigue (β = .225, t = 2.063, p = .042). The positive unstandardized coefficient (B = 0.128) indicates that female therapists tended to report higher levels of compassion fatigue than their male counterparts. Moreover, qualitative results further illuminated the recurring themes of emotional overinvestment, difficulty maintaining professional boundaries, disrupted rest, and reliance on informal coping strategies. Despite these challenges, participants emphasized fulfillment derived from witnessing client progress, demonstrating resilience and a strong commitment to their therapeutic role.  The sets of findings gave rise to the STAR Program: Strengthening Therapists’ Awareness and Resilience against Compassion Fatigue. This evidence-based, needs-responsive intervention aims to promote early detection of compassion fatigue, enhance emotional regulation, and reinforce adaptive wellness and reflective practices tailored to the clinical realities of ABA work. The program emphasizes awareness-building, structured peer support, and the cultivation of sustainable coping strategies to safeguard the therapists’ emotional health and professional effectiveness.