Compassionate Care for Teachers Strategies from Behavior Analysis

Contents | Foreword | Preface | Acknowledgement | 1: Introduction to Behavioral Science | 2: Behavior Analysis and Self Compassion | 3: The Behavior Change Framework | 4: Building Confidence | 5: Self-Compassionate Routines | 6: Talents and Hobbies | 7: Journaling | 8: Mindfulness and Meditation | 9: The Crisis Cycle | 10: Behavior-Specific Praise | 11: Building Rapport | 12: Differential Reinforcement | 13: Reinforcement Vs. Rewards | 14: Mastery & Maintenance

Biography

Amanda Steeley is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Special Education teacher in Goochland, Virginia. She is passionate about utilizing behavior analytic strategies to support wellness and growth for both students and teachers. Mrs. Steeley served as a public-school behavior analyst for Richmond Public Schools (RPS) in Richmond, Virginia, before returning to the classroom to do what she loves most – teach.

This book is a timely and invaluable resource for teachers, school leaders, teacher educators, and behavior analysts working across educational and clinical settings. By thoughtfully integrating the science of human behavior with practical self-care strategies, Steeley provides readers with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively support clients, colleagues, and themselves. Readers will come away better equipped to create positive, sustainable environments that promote both professional excellence and personal well-being.

Craig Marrer, Professor, Institute for Applied Behavior Science, Endicott College, United States

Compassionate Care for Teachers is more than a book; it's a reminder that caring for ourselves is just as important as caring for our students. As an elementary school assistant principal, I hope every teacher reads this book, takes its message to heart, and embraces the compassionate, practical routines it offers. By intentionally building these habits into our daily lives, we can create greater balance, sustain our passion for teaching, and experience more joy in both our classrooms and our personal lives.

Jessica Olesevich, Assistant Principal, VA Public Schools

Steeley’s behavioral perspective untangles the messiness of teaching and life, and her warm authenticity reminds us to stay true and kind to ourselves. This bridge between compassion as an abstract value and compassionate behavior in practice is a breath of fresh air for teachers who feel like they’re drowning in the education system. As an educator, her work is a practical guide on how to show up for yourself so that you can show up for others. 

Libbie Ryan, Special Education Teacher, Richmond, VA 

Compassionate Teacher is written with a warmth and authenticity of a trusted friend who always finds time to share meaningful and supportive advice over coffee (or tea). Amanda masterfully blends the science of behavior analysis with practical, compassionate strategies for teachers that strengthen both their classroom practice and wellbeing. Insightful, accessible, and empowering, this is a book for educators looking for both: professional guidance and personal encouragement.

Daria Lorio-Barsten, Ph.D, BCBA,Clinical Assistant ProfessorWilliam & Mary