Consider A Rewarding Career Helping Children and Families Better Understand and Handle Behavioral Challenges

Do you like working with children and families? Are you interested in helping improve a child’s life through a better understanding of their behavior? Are you a good communicator and do you like working with others? If so, you might want to consider a career in Applied Behavior Analysis, a relatively new field that is rapidly growing and has a high demand for practitioners.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based practice focusing on understanding and improving behavior. It is recognized as an effective approach for individuals with various developmental and behavioral challenges, including autism spectrum disorder. ABA is based on the fact that behavior is learned and can be changed through various influences. It involves breaking down complex behaviors into smaller behaviors and using observation and measurement to analyze the factors that influence those behaviors. By identifying specific triggers and consequences associated with a behavior, ABA practitioners can develop strategies to promote desired behaviors and reduce problem behaviors.

One of the key strengths of ABA is its emphasis on data-driven decision-making. ABA practitioners collect and analyze data on behavior and progress regularly, allowing for ongoing evaluation and adjustment of interventions as needed. This data-driven approach helps ensure that treatment plans are effective and individualized.

People who work in the field of ABA usually have one of two jobs: a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) or a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

Both RBTs and BCBAs play integral roles in supporting neurodiverse individuals with their support needs. While both contribute to improving the lives of those they serve, there are distinct differences in their roles, responsibilities and educational and training requirements.

A BCBA is an advanced-level practitioner in the field of ABA who possesses expertise in the assessment, treatment and management of behavior challenges. BCBAs are responsible for administering behavioral assessments and developing comprehensive behavior intervention plans, overseeing the implementation of ABA programs and analyzing data to ensure effective outcomes. Some key aspects of a BCBA's role include:

• Assessment and Treatment Planning: BCBAs conduct functional behavior assessments to identify the environmental factors that influence behavior. Based on the assessment findings, they develop individualized treatment plans, select appropriate behavior intervention strategies and set goals to address specific behavior challenges.
• Supervision and Training: BCBAs provide supervision and training to RBTs and other team members. They ensure that the therapy team is equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to implement interventions effectively and ethically. This includes providing feedback, conducting training sessions and monitoring progress.
• Data Analysis and Decision-Making: BCBAs analyze data collected by RBTs and other team members to evaluate progress, make data-driven decisions and modify treatment plans as needed. They utilize their expertise in behavior analysis to assess the effectiveness of interventions and ensure optimal client outcomes.
• Collaboration and Consultation: BCBAs collaborate with other professionals, such as teachers, parents and health care providers, to create a holistic approach to treatment. They provide consultation and support, and help others understand behavior intervention strategies and promote consistency across different settings.

An RBT, on the other hand, receives specialized training by BCBAs in the topics of behavioral assessment, treatment and treatment evaluation. As a component of the specialized training the RBT receives, BCBAs train RBTs to develop their competency in delivering ABA services which includes learning how to implement treatment plans and promote skill development and behavior reduction. Key topics addressed in the RBT training experience include:

• Direct Implementation: RBTs learn how to work directly with neurodiverse individuals and their families. They learn ABA techniques to deliver individualized instruction and assist with skill acquisition and behavior reduction goals.
• Data Collection: RBTs learn how to accurately collect data on client progress during therapy sessions. This data serves as a critical tool for BCBA analysis and decision-making, allowing them to adjust treatment plans as needed.
• Collaboration: RBTs collaborate closely with BCBAs and other members of the therapy team, providing essential insights into the progress and challenges faced by clients. They participate in regular team meetings to discuss client goals, treatment strategies and progress updates.
• Maintaining Ethical Standards: RBTs adhere to the ethical guidelines set forth by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). They maintain client confidentiality, practice within their scope of competence, and receive supervision and guidance when necessary.

To become an RBT, individuals must complete a 40-hour training program, pass a competency assessment and obtain ongoing training and supervision from a BCBA. On the other hand, becoming a BCBA requires a master's degree in ABA or a related field, completion of supervised fieldwork, and passing the BCBA certification exam. Both BCBA and RBT candidates must complete supervised fieldwork to gain hands-on experience. BCBA candidates need a minimum of 1,500 supervised hours, while RBT candidates must complete a minimum of 40 hours of supervised experience. Both BCBAs and RBTs are engaged in ongoing training after their certifications to ensure they are providing best-practice assessments and interventions.

Both roles require a strong analytical mindset to assess behavior, analyze data and make data-driven decisions. Also important are communication skills needed for when working with neurodiverse individuals, their families and other professionals. Going along with strong communication skills is an ability to effectively collaborate with other and the willingness to have a degree of curiosity that fosters ongoing learning and analyses.

No matter which path you choose to go down, being an RBT and a BCBA are both highly rewarding jobs offering the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Right now, experienced RBTs and BCBAs are in high demand, with plenty of opportunities for career growth and advancement. More information can be found at the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (https://www.bacb.com/) and at the Association for Behavior Analysis International (https://www.abainternational.org/).