Transform Your Practice at the BCBA Summer Camp Retreat
Earn 16–18 CEUs in a creative, supportive environment while connecting with like-minded BCBAs® in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
What to Expect
This isn't your typical ABA training...we do things a bit differently.
The year is 2030, and the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is in free fall.
What was once considered the gold standard for supporting individuals with autism has become a fractured, discredited, and unsustainable practice. ABA clinics are shutting down, insurance companies have pulled funding, and public trust in behavior analysis has
collapsed. Families are left without services, schools are expelling autistic students due to a lack of support, and self-advocacy groups are actively campaigning against ABA, calling it abusive and outdated.
Meanwhile, BCBAs are burning out and leaving the field in droves. Many who remain are drowning in unsustainable caseloads, ethical dilemmas, and a system that no longer seems built to serve its intended purpose.
Despite the grim reality, a small group of professionals still believe that ABA can be saved. You are among them.
Your Mission:
Your team has been called upon as the last line of defense for ABA. The field is unraveling, but you have the knowledge, skills, and expertise to create solutions that could change everything.
This will not be easy. The crisis is not the result of a single failure—but a system-wide collapse.
To turn ABA around, you must identify the key problems, integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines, and create a sustainable, ethical, and innovative path forward.
But be warned—if you fail, ABA as we know it will cease to exist.
The Facts
Our Summer Camp for BCBAs® is designed to inspire, educate, and rejuvenate. With a perfect mix of dynamic workshops, meaningful connections, and camp-style fun, this retreat will help you reignite your passion for ABA.
Dates: August 21–25, 2025
Arrive early or leave late to extend your stay by booking a nearby hotel and explore the great Smoky Mountains!
The Lodge at Caney Creek, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
A relaxing location to surround yourself with learning in a calm, relaxing atmosphere.
Earn 16 CEUs*
Actively participate in all sessions to receive a total of 16 CEUs during your stay. Additional CEUs are available with VIP upgrade.
Tentative Schedule
Experience a balance of learning and connection.
Each day of the retreat includes engaging workshops and activities designed to help you integrate new concepts into your practice. Here’s a sneak peek:
August 21: Check-in, welcome activities, campfire, and conversations.
Start your retreat experience with a warm welcome! Settle into the beautiful lodge, meet your fellow attendees, and join us for an evening of connection by the campfire. Share stories, relax, and prepare for the transformative days ahead.
August 22: Assent, Staff Supervision, ACT, and Neurodiversity Affirming Care
Kick off the retreat with interactive workshops on some of the most impactful topics in ABA. Learn practical strategies for giving clients a voice, fostering collaboration in supervision, and embracing neurodiversity in your practice.
August 23: Compassion Fatigue, Burnout, Trauma-Informed Care, Person-Centered Planning, and Advocacy
Gain actionable tools to prioritize both client care and your well-being. This day’s workshops focus on reducing burnout, building trauma-informed practices, and creating truly person-centered plans that advocate for your clients’ unique needs.
August 24: Collaboration, Ethics, Innovation, Creativity, and the Future of ABA
Delve into cutting-edge topics with a mix of collaboration and creativity. From ethical considerations to building peer networks and envisioning the future of ABA, this day will inspire you to innovate in your practice.
August 25: Check-out and Meaningful Networking Connections
As the retreat wraps up, take time to solidify the connections you’ve made and reflect on the insights you’re bringing back home. Stay in touch with your new network of peers to continue your journey beyond the retreat.
Accommodations & Travel
Nearest Airports
Gatlinburg Pigeon Forge Airport is the best option for air travel, only 20 minutes from the lodge, however if this isn't an option from your destination, below are driving times from larger airports:
Gatlinburg Pigeon Forge Airport (Preferred Airport)
Asheville Regional Airport (Approx. 2.5 Hours)
Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (Approx 2.5 Hours)
Nashville International Airport (Approx 3.25 Hours)
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Approx 4.25 Hours)
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Approx 4.25 Hours)
Accommodations
There is limited space available on site. Guests will have their own room and bathroom. These rooms are booked on a first-come-first-served basis. Other nearby hotel options for every budget are available including:
Riverstone Resort & Spa (10 minutes)
Twin Mountain Inn & Suites (10 minutes)
Rivergate Mountain Lodge (10 minutes)
Margaritaville Island Hotel (15 minutes)
Dollywood's DreamMore Resort & Spa (15 minutes)
Hampton Inn Pigeon Forge (15 minutes)
Hilton Garden Inn Pigeon Forge (15 minutes)
Transportation
Take an Uber from Gatlinburg Pigeon Forge Airport (just 20 minutes away) and enjoy a car-free experience. We can assist you with hotel drop off and pickup daily.
While food isn't provided, there's a grocery store 10 minutes from the lodge and plenty of nearby restaurants as well.
VIP Experience
Take Your Retreat to the Next Level
Upgrade to VIP for exclusive access to presenters, additional CEUs, and bonus workshops. Select this option in addition to your attendance option on the order form.
What’s Included:
Access to all recorded sessions post-retreat.
1-year membership to the Master ABA Dojo.
Bonus CEUs:
Neurodiversity Affirming Care (3 CEUs)
Trauma-Informed ABA Practice (3 CEUs)
Preventing and Managing Burnout (2.5 CEUs)
Virtual pre-event workshop.
Career Coaching, case study deep dive, and personalized feedback.
Vision Board workshop and exclusive fireside Q&A sessions.
Paperback copies of 3 Master ABA books.
Pricing
Whether you choose the VIP experience or the standard retreat package, both options provide exceptional value and unforgettable experiences. Explore the pricing options below to find the right fit for you.
In-Person
$475*
At least 16 live CEUs
18 CEUs of recorded relevant training (see below for full list)
Over $500 worth of additional resources (see below)
Summer fun activities
Swag bag filled with goodies
Opportunity to connect and network in a relaxed setting
Stay on site with the instructors in your own room and bathroom
*Price does not include lodging.
Unlock $1874 worth of resources!
In-Person with Lodging
$1075
At least 16 live CEUs
18 CEUs of recorded relevant training (see below for full list)
Over $500 worth of additional resources (see below)
Summer fun activities
Swag bag filled with goodies
Opportunity to connect and network in a relaxed setting
Stay on site with the instructors in your own room and bathroom
Unlock $2674 worth of resources!
Virtual
$400
At least 16 live CEUs
18 CEUs of recorded relevant training (see below for full list)
Over $500 worth of additional resources (see below)
Swag bag filled with goodies
Opportunity to connect and network in a relaxed setting
Stay on site with the instructors in your own room and bathroom
Unlock $1321 worth of resources!
Included Training
All Attendees Receive Access to:
2.5 Ethics CEUs Reflections on Practice: Enhancing Competence in BCBA Practice
2 CEUs Leveraging AI in ABA: Enhancing Practices for BCBAs and Exploring the Integration
2 CEUs Enhancing Interactions: How to Use the ACT Matrix to Build Partnerships with Parents and Staff
1 CEU Resilient BCBA: Mastering the Art of Bouncing Back When You Get Knocked Down
1 CEU The ACT of Collaboration: Using the ACT Matrix to Empower Parents
In-Person Attendees Also Get:
2.5 CEUs Navigating the Changes in the Field: 10 Trends Transforming ABA
2.5 CEUs Imposter Syndrome Unveiled: Empowering Your Professional Journey with Self-Confidence
2 CEUs Voice and Choice: Assent in Action in ABA Services
1.5 Ethics CEUs The Moral Tightrope: Why Good People Sometimes Choose the Wrong Path
1 CEU Beyond Assessments: Teaching Skills that Transform Lives
Transformative Learning That Feels Like Fun
Our retreats aren’t just events—they’re transformative experiences designed to help you grow both personally and professionally.
With a small group size, you’ll form meaningful connections with like-minded BCBAs while participating in interactive sessions that are far from the typical “sit and listen” training. Creative, camp-style activities ensure that learning is fun, engaging, and memorable.
By attending and participating in all the sessions, you’ll earn up to half of your annual CEUs in just a few days. But this retreat is about more than just credits—it’s about restoring your passion for the field.
Each day is packed with immersive learning opportunities, yet the interactive and collaborative nature of the workshops means it won’t feel like “work.” You’ll leave feeling refreshed, energized, and equipped with practical tools to bring back to your practice.
This retreat is your chance to rediscover why you chose this field in the first place. Join us to reignite your purpose, reconnect with your peers, and have a little fun along the way.
Still Have Questions?
What is the Master ABA Academy CEU Retreat?
It's a unique, immersive experience designed for BCBAs® who want to earn CEUs while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This retreat blends high-quality learning with relaxation and rejuvenation.
Where will the retreat be held?
Get ready for an unforgettable experience! We've secured an incredible 8-bedroom cabin nestled in the beautiful Smoky Mountains of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This spacious and comfortable cabin offers the perfect blend of relaxation and fun, with amenities like:
*A double kitchen: Fully equipped with everything you need to prepare meals and snacks, including two refrigerators, two stoves, two microwaves, and two dishwashers.
*Spacious common areas: Plenty of room to spread out, relax, and connect with your fellow campers.
*A dedicated game room: Featuring a pool table, foosball, and a large flat-screen TV for entertainment.
*A private hot tub: Unwind and soak in the beauty of the surrounding woods after a day of learning and activities.
*A fire pit: Gather around the fire for s'mores, storytelling, and meaningful conversations under the stars.
*Comfortable bedrooms: Each with a private bathroom for your comfort and privacy for those opting to stay on site.
And that's not all! The cabin is conveniently located just 20 minutes from the Gatlinburg Pigeon Forge Airport, making it easy to get to and from the retreat.
What topics will be covered at the retreat?
The retreat focuses on compassionate, person-centered ABA practices. Expect sessions on topics like:
Trauma-informed care
Ethical considerations Building rapport and trust
Effective communication strategies
And much more!
Are there any discounts available?
The early bird discount expired January 1, 2025.
What is the cancellation policy?
Our retreats are intentionally kept small to maintain an intimate environment that fosters collaboration and connection. For this reason, retreat refunds are subject to a separate cancellation policy: https://masteraba.academy/retreat-refunds
If I stay on site will I have my own room?
Guests who choose to stay on site will have their own room and access to their own bathroom. There are only 5 bedrooms available for guests so register now if you want to choose this option!
Is food provided?
While some snacks and a celebratory meal at the end of the retreat are included, guests should plan to bring food for the duration of the retreat. Space in the kitchen will be provided, and you will have access to both a refrigerator and a stove.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
Meals are not included in the retreat, although access to the kitchen will be provided. That being said, please let us know about any dietary restrictions when you register so we're prepared if there are any activities that involve food.
What should I bring to the retreat?
This retreat is a casual experience in the mountains of TN. Plan to dress comfortably and bring clothes you can wear in nature as time allows. Also, a kitchen is provided for your convenience so you can bring the food you enjoy
Who can I contact if I have more questions?
You can reach us at [email protected] with any further questions.
Empower, Advocate, Transform: Disrupting Norms and Reimagining the Field
An intimate CEU retreat in Pigeon Forge, TN
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