Kate Sadler

Dr. Kate Sadler is an Assistant Teaching Professor of Special Education and Director of the Graduate Program in Applied Behavior Analysis at the University of Missouri's College of Education & Human Development. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D), Licensed Behavior Analyst, and certified Early Childhood and Special Education Teacher with over 25 years of experience in the field.

Her educational background includes a PhD in Special Education with an emphasis in autism spectrum disorders and cognitive psychology from the University of Missouri, followed by a postdoctoral research fellowship at the Curry School of Education, University of Virginia.

Dr. Sadler’s research and professional work focus on culturally responsive and inclusive behavior analytic practices, particularly for individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders across the lifespan. Key areas include functional analysis, communication training for adults with ASD, video modeling, self-advocacy, and evidence-based interventions in early identification, transition, and vocational services.

Though no specific publications or research awards are listed in the provided text, her expertise informs training, supervision, and program development in applied behavior analysis. She has led initiatives in nonprofit and private program settings, emphasizing staff mentoring and evidence-based service delivery.

Dr. Sadler is deeply committed to equity and inclusion in special education and behavior analysis, with a strong emphasis on lifespan support for individuals with emotional, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental challenges. She leads the graduate ABA program, shaping future behavior analysts through comprehensive, practice-oriented education.