Shakira Millar is a dedicated entrepreneur and advocate committed to helping children with developmental challenges reach their fullest potential. As co-founder of Behavior Change LLC in Pembroke Pines, Florida, she has over a decade of expertise in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), delivering personalized support to children and families with compassion and care.
Shakira’s educational path highlights her dedication to growth and learning. She began her studies at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada, with aspirations in veterinary medicine, but found her calling in child development. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master’s in Early Childhood Studies from Walden University. Shakira furthered her expertise by completing a certification in Behavior Analysis at the Florida Institute of Technology and is currently preparing for her Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam.
With a collaborative and client-centered approach, Shakira has built her career on creating meaningful change. Her experience working with various agencies and learning from exceptional mentors has shaped her ability to design innovative strategies that empower families and foster growth for children with unique needs.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Shakira Millar balances her role as an entrepreneur with family life and ongoing educational pursuits. Her dedication to making a difference and her unwavering commitment to her work have earned her recognition as a leader in the field of ABA therapy.
What inspired you to co-found Behavior Change LLC?
I wanted to create something that truly reflected my vision of support and care. After years of working in ABA therapy, I saw gaps in how services were delivered. I believed families needed a more personalized, compassionate approach. Co-founding Behavior Change LLC allowed me to design a practice that puts clients and families first. It was about creating a space where real, lasting progress could happen.
What’s been the most rewarding part of your journey as a therapist and entrepreneur?
Seeing the positive changes in children’s lives is the most rewarding. Every milestone, big or small, feels like a shared victory. As an entrepreneur, it’s also deeply fulfilling to see my vision come to life through my team and the families we help. Knowing that I’ve built something meaningful keeps me motivated every day.
How do you handle challenges in running your business?
I tackle challenges step by step. I remind myself to stay calm and focus on solutions instead of the problems. When it feels overwhelming, I seek advice from mentors or colleagues. Learning from others has been invaluable. I also prioritize self-care because a clear mind helps me make better decisions.
How do you balance work, family, and ongoing education?
It’s all about prioritizing and planning. I set realistic goals for each day and try not to overcommit. I also give myself grace when things don’t go perfectly. Staying organized helps, but so does knowing when to step back and recharge with my family or take time for myself.
What’s one lesson you’ve learned from being a founder?
Trust your instincts but also be open to learning. Starting a business taught me that not everything will go as planned. Flexibility is key, but so is staying true to your values. Challenges will come, but they’re opportunities to grow.
How has your background shaped your approach to ABA therapy?
My diverse experiences have shown me that every child is unique. Working in different roles and learning from amazing mentors taught me to adapt my strategies to fit each family’s needs. It’s about finding what works for them and building on their strengths.
What advice would you give to someone considering starting their own ABA practice?
Be prepared for the hard work but don’t let fear stop you. Build a solid support system and keep learning. Focus on your values and why you want to start the practice. That purpose will guide you through the ups and downs.
How do you celebrate successes with your clients?
Celebrating is important, no matter how small the success. I always acknowledge the child’s effort and let the family know how far they’ve come. It’s about reinforcing progress and showing that every step forward matters.
What keeps you motivated when things get tough?
The families I work with motivate me. Knowing that I can make a difference in their lives pushes me to keep going. I also remind myself of the bigger picture. Challenges are temporary, but the impact of our work lasts a lifetime.
What’s one piece of advice you live by?
Never stop learning. Whether it’s through formal education, mentorship, or personal experiences, there’s always room to grow. Staying curious and open-minded has helped me in every area of my life.
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