Professional Journey and Impact
Brenna Wagner, M.Sc., BCBA, a prominent figure in applied behavior analysis and clinical psychology, has been honored with inclusion in Marquis Who’s Who. This recognition is bestowed upon individuals based on their significant professional standing, notable accomplishments, and visibility within their respective fields. Ms. Wagner’s career, spanning eight years, reflects a deep commitment to advancing behavioral health services, particularly for children with autism.
Since 2022, Ms. Wagner has served as co-owner of Bee Kids Utah, a venture she operates alongside her business partner, Lara Shields. In this capacity, she has demonstrated exceptional expertise in clinical operations, staff training, and supervision. Her dedication to fostering verbal skills in children with limited communication abilities has yielded remarkable results. Notably, she has guided children who began therapy with minimal verbal capabilities to double their verbal skills within three months, an achievement she notes was not commonly observed in other clinical settings.
Prior to co-founding Bee Kids Utah, Ms. Wagner held the position of clinical director at Behavior Supports and Solutions from 2020 to 2022. During her tenure, she was responsible for overseeing all clinical operations, developing comprehensive staff training protocols, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality care to clients. Her leadership was instrumental in enhancing the organization’s reputation and facilitating its growth within the broader behavioral health community.
From 2017 to 2020, Ms. Wagner worked as a board-certified behavior analyst at ABS Kids. In this role, she provided direct support to children and their families, implemented evidence-based interventions, and actively contributed to the professional development of her colleagues. Her commitment to the field is further underscored by her active membership with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.
Ms. Wagner’s robust academic background has been a cornerstone of her professional success. She earned a Master of Science in clinical psychology from Bournemouth University in the United Kingdom in 2018, which provided her with a strong foundation in psychological assessment and intervention strategies. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in child development from the University of Utah. These academic achievements, combined with her credentials as a board-certified behavior analyst and a licensed behavior analyst in Utah, ensure her practice adheres to the highest professional standards.
Her decision to enter the field of ABA was deeply personal, stemming from observations during her undergraduate studies of a close family friend’s child with autism struggling to access appropriate care. This experience ignited her passion to dedicate her career to helping children and families overcome similar obstacles. A particularly formative moment early in her career, when a child asked for her name, solidified her resolve to always prioritize the needs of those she serves. Her professional excellence was recognized with the Provider of the Year award from Rethink in 2023.
Leadership Philosophy and Future Vision
Ms. Wagner attributes her professional achievements to her unwavering dedication and the supportive environment she has cultivated throughout her career. She emphasizes the critical importance of surrounding herself with passionate individuals who share a common commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of others. This culture of enthusiasm and shared purpose serves as a continuous motivator, driving her to pursue ongoing learning and improvement. It also ensures that every member of her team, from entry-level staff to senior directors, remains steadfastly focused on their core mission of providing exceptional care.
Looking ahead, Ms. Wagner is committed to expanding access to vital therapy and support services for children in underserved communities. She plans to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing accessibility and disseminating knowledge to families and communities that currently lack adequate resources. This initiative aims to broaden her impact on the field, reaching more individuals and further solidifying her legacy as a compassionate and innovative leader in behavioral health.
Career Takeaway
Brenna Wagner’s career trajectory offers valuable insights for aspiring and current ABA professionals. Her journey underscores the importance of a strong academic foundation, continuous professional development, and a client-centered approach driven by personal passion. Her success in clinical leadership and entrepreneurship, coupled with a clear vision for expanding access to care, exemplifies how dedication and strategic leadership can significantly impact the behavioral health landscape.
Fast Facts
| Key Point | Why It Matters for ABA |
|---|---|
| Marquis Who’s Who inclusion | Recognizes significant leadership and impact in the behavioral analysis field. |
| Co-owner of Bee Kids Utah | Demonstrates entrepreneurial success and clinical operational expertise in ABA. |
| Doubled verbal skills in 3 months | Highlights effective, data-driven intervention outcomes for children with limited verbal abilities. |
| Plans for nonprofit organization | Shows a commitment to addressing disparities in access to ABA services for underserved communities. |
| M.Sc. in Clinical Psychology | Provides a robust scientific and theoretical foundation for evidence-based ABA practice. |
Expert Perspective
Brenna Wagner’s commitment to both clinical excellence and expanding access to care sets a powerful example for the future of applied behavior analysis.
Source: 24-7pressrelease.com
