Behavior analysts are often critical staff in special needs services, including those for children. And board certified behavior analysts (BCBA) take this a step further with additional professional standards. Both are often seen as highly rewarding and even essential positions.
Here, we’ll cover why the expertise of a BCBA is often required for special needs services and what the job is like for those considering the career.
Working as a BCBA
Behavior analysts can work in schools, classrooms, clinics, hospitals, and nonprofits. Many behavior analysts specialize in specific areas, such as autism, developmental disabilities, or mental health issues.
A board-certified behavior analyst works to impact the lives of individuals with various behavioral needs. They also often work to guide, coach, or teach children and adults with special needs improved behavioral habits.
Advancing to work as a BCBA has several requirements for certification.
Institutional Requirements for BCBA-Certified Professionals
Becoming a BCBA requires a graduate-level degree in behavior analysis, education psychology, or a related field. A level of supervisory experience is also needed, typically 1500-2000 hours of supervised work under an accredited BCBA. Then, they must pass an exam administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
- Earn a Master’s Degree – The first step is to earn a master’s degree or higher in one of three qualifying fields:
- Behavior Analysis
- Psychology
- Education
- Experience Requirements – This second step requires up to 2,000 hours of fieldwork in applied behavior analysis.
- Passing the BCBA Exam – The third step requires passing the BCBA exam, which includes questions on ethics, behavior assessment, behavior-change procedures, concepts and principles, data display, measurement, interpretation, and selecting and implementing interventions.
- BCBA Certification Maintenance – This final step is essential to keeping up with any changes that may occur and keeping consistent standards up to date. This step includes continuing education, ethical standards, and recertification every two years.
This field is rapidly growing, and the demand for certified behavior analysts is increasing, partly due to the additional skills and expertise required of BCBAs.
Additional Skills and Expertise of a BCBA
A BCBA acquires additional skills to be able to:
- Gather and analyze data to implement and administer appropriate behavior intervention plans.
- Work with patients and their families to implement the best course of treatment.
- Help with the autism spectrum by working with children who have autism and can also help adolescents and adults with behavioral and social management.
The Motivation of BCBAs
BCBAs often have a strong passion and commitment to helping others improve their lives. Working directly with a BCBA can profoundly impact the quality of life for individuals with behavioral challenges.
A BCBA on an educational services team can help improve a student’s overall quality of life through behavior and essential life skills, and guiding every step of their transformation makes the position fulfilling and rewarding.
Benefits of BCBAs on Staff in Schools
A BCBA in schools as part of a student’s individualized education program (IEP) can benefit the students and the staff.
- BCBAs can observe and conduct assessments, interviews, and review records to help develop detailed programs for students.
- BCBAs can use the insights they take to create behavior programs that minimize maladaptive behavior and maximize more functional behavior.
- BCBAs can also train and support staff to implement designed interventions to assist students.
A Career in Behavior Analysis
Being a BCBA, you can impact the quality of life for those struggling with behavioral challenges. Success in school and early in their lives can benefit them for their whole life long. You will also be making a meaningful contribution to their physical and mental health.
Behavior Analysis positions are in high demand, and the work is exceptionally rewarding. If you’re at the stage of your life selecting a college major or looking to train for a new career, consider starting down the path of a BCBA to make a meaningful and lasting impact.