Unlock the future of behavior analysis by diving deep into the groundbreaking contributions of Relational Frame Theory (RFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)—innovative approaches revolutionizing how BCBAs and RBTs shape language and cognition. This transformative master class, led by renowned pioneers Dr. Mark R. Dixon and Dr. Ruth Anne Rehfeldt, provides the advanced education in verbal behavior and language acquisition you likely missed in graduate school. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn directly from two of the field’s most influential thought leaders, whose cutting-edge research and practical insights are driving an exponential shift in ABA practice. Equip yourself with the next-generation tools your clients deserve, and elevate your practice beyond traditional approaches.  

Experience firsthand the profound impact that integrating RFT and ACT can have on individuals with autism—moving beyond rote memorization to foster genuine language fluency, cognitive flexibility, and emotional resilience. This class provides you with practical skills to seamlessly embed RFT and ACT goals within your existing treatment plans and assessments, enhancing outcomes in areas such as language complexity, social interaction, and behavioral adaptability. Learn precisely where traditional Skinnerian approaches reach their limits, and discover how these innovative methodologies offer a pathway to richer, more meaningful progress for your clients and their families.

This master class by Dr. Mark R. Dixon and Dr. Ruth Anne Rehfeldt provides an in-depth exploration of language and cognition from a contemporary behavior analytic perspective, equipping attendees with a comprehensive understanding of historical, conceptual, and practical developments in verbal behavior (VB), Relational Frame Theory (RFT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Participants will examine Skinner’s foundational contributions to verbal behavior, including his definitions, applied impact, and enduring controversies, while tracing the evolution of stimulus equivalence from basic research to current applications in education, politics, and culture. The course emphasizes the critical role of emergent or generative behavior in language acquisition, distinguishing it clearly from generalization, and incorporates insights from nonhuman animal studies that have shaped modern accounts of symbolic and relational behavior. Attendees will rigorously evaluate RFT’s advancement beyond Skinner’s initial framework, dissect various relational frame families, and critically analyze strengths and weaknesses within this theory. Comprehensive attention is given to ACT, including its behavioral analytic roots, wide-ranging applications, and empirical support. Participants will confront ongoing skepticism within the field, learning strategies to navigate conceptual and ethical challenges inherent in adopting innovative, post-Skinnerian interventions. Through targeted hands-on assignments attendees will gain the skills to implement VB, RFT, and ACT-based interventions effectively within clinical and organizational contexts, enhancing staff motivation and organizational culture, while also cultivating their own capacity to critically contribute to the evolving science of language.

With over two decades of dedication to behavior analysis, Dr. Mark R. Dixon, BCBA-D stands at the forefront of advancing Verbal Behavior, Relational Frame Theory (RFT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). His influential work, including over 200 peer-reviewed articles and 15 seminal books, reflects a deep-seated passion for exploring and expanding these fields. His insatiable curiosity and commitment to research have spilled over into every significant behavior analytic journal, breaking new ground and influencing practitioners far and wide.

Dr. Dixon's profound understanding of these disciplines is matched only by his zeal for imparting this knowledge to others. His extensive global teaching experience has honed his ability to effectively bridge the gap between complex theory and practical application.