Jackie Shandy, M.A., BCBA 

My Story

Jackie is a founding owner of BEST Consulting, Inc., helping establish the organization in 2001 with a vision of providing high-quality, family-centered behavioral services. Prior to founding BEST, she gained extensive experience delivering behavioral intervention and developing clinical programs for children and families. During her undergraduate training, Jackie participated in groundbreaking research that highlighted the importance of early identification, early intervention, and treatment intensity in producing meaningful outcomes for children with developmental disabilities.

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In 2007, Jackie earned her Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential, joining a distinguished group of practitioners who have maintained certification in the field of behavior analysis for nearly two decades.

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Throughout her career, Jackie has remained committed to the belief that meaningful progress begins with strong relationships. Her vision for BEST has always been rooted in rapport building, family involvement, and the development of authentic connections with the individuals and families served by the organization. Recognizing that behavioral intervention can sometimes become overly structured or disconnected from everyday life, Jackie has consistently championed a naturalistic, relationship-based approach to treatment. By combining evidence-based behavioral practices with meaningful social interactions, she has helped create programs that promote lasting skill development and successful generalization across environments.

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While embracing innovation in service delivery, Jackie has remained deeply committed to the science of behavior analysis. She regularly incorporates current research into clinical programming and actively supports opportunities for applied research and professional development within the organization.

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After nearly twenty years as a BCBA, Jackie made the life-changing decision in 2025 to return to graduate school and pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. Her goal is to expand access to early diagnostic and mental health services for children and families seeking answers, guidance, and support. She is particularly passionate about addressing the gap that often exists between recognizing developmental concerns and obtaining a formal diagnosis, a critical first step in accessing appropriate intervention and support services.

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Currently, Jackie is completing her doctoral training in Honolulu, Hawaii, where she serves as a clinical intern within the Veterans Affairs Healthcare System. Despite working across multiple time zones, she remains actively involved with BEST through ongoing consultation, virtual collaboration, strategic planning, and the occasional surprise visit to the clinic.

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More than twenty-five years after founding BEST Consulting, Jackie remains dedicated to the mission, families, and staff that have shaped the organization's growth. Her leadership continues to influence the company's culture of compassion, clinical excellence, innovation, and commitment to helping individuals reach their fullest potential.