CHRISTOPHER BARNETT

FOUNDER & CHAIRMAN, ABA CENTERS, FORT LAUDERDALE

With more than 2,000 employees, ABA Centers currently operates in 40 markets in 10 states. Founded in 2020, the company provides applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy services to children with autism through a play-based approach rooted in positive reinforcement. Designed to disrupt the autism care industry by “demolishing” wait times traditionally experienced by those in search of an autism diagnosis or treatment, the company provides care through its behavioral care centers, as well as in-home and in-school services.

EDUCATION: Temple University (BA), Nova Southeastern University (JD)

FIRST JOB: My first job at age 14 was as a busboy at a local Italian restaurant.

SOMETHING SURPRISING: I absolutely hate pickles. I can’t eat anything that has pickle juice on it. I don’t know where it comes from, but it’s a no-go in my diet.

INDUSTRY TREND: The most notable trend in autism care is the integration of emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence, which ABA Centers began utilizing years ago. AI helps identify what therapy interventions work best over time and can also help flag developmental delays or regression early, enabling more effective outcomes. AI is the focus of my newest venture, CurativeAI, which aims to change the landscape of how medical care is delivered.