In this episode of EveryDay ABA, Paola (BCBA) and Brittanny (RBT) sit down with Dr. Kristyn Peterson, BCBA and OBM expert, to unpack psychological safety- what it really means, why it's often misunderstood, and how behavior analysts can use evidence-based strategies to promote it in the workplace. From Amy Edmondson’s foundational research to the 4 Stages of Psychological Safety by Timothy Clark, this episode bridges behavioral science with leadership, inclusion, and culture-building. If you’ve ever wondered how to give feedback, create safer work environments, or move from clinical to organizational work, this episode is for you.

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After listening to the episode, participants will be able to:

• Define psychological safety and distinguish it from related but distinct concepts such as being “nice” or avoiding conflict in the workplace.
• Compare and contrast trauma-informed, person-centered, and psychologically safe supervision practices in applied settings.
• Describe the four stages of psychological safety as outlined by Timothy Clark.
• Analyze how psychological safety supports or hinders performance feedback, innovation, and mission alignment in ABA organizations.

References:

Clark, T. R. (2020). The 4 stages of psychological safety: Defining the path to inclusion and innovation. Berrett-Koehler Publishers.

Edmondson, A. C. (2019). The fearless organization: Creating psychological safety in the workplace for learning, innovation, and growth. Wiley.

Helbig, K., & Norman, M. (2023). The psychological safety playbook: Lead more powerfully by being more human. Page Two Books.

Tuckman, B. W. (1965). Developmental sequence in small groups. Psychological Bulletin, 63(6), 384–399.

Dr. Kristyn Peterson, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA, CWP

Kristyn is a Behavior Analyst, a former clinical director, and current OBMer and multi-entrepreneur. Throughout her career she is always looking for ways she can use the science of behavior to make a macro-level impact, which drove her interest in behavioral systems analysis, process improvement, and psychological safety. In addition to providing continuing education for BCBAs, she co-owns a technology consulting company Zendicoded, volunteers as a subject matter expert for NASQN, and supports PhD and master's students in their dissertations and theses. She's passionate about helping people create kinder, safer workplaces.

Find her on Instagram: @aba_in_the_wild OR LinkedIn

Join her courses:

LSS White Belt (July)

Psychological Safety 4-Week Intensive