What is a BCBA?

A BCBA, short for board-certified behavior analyst, is a graduate-level title and certification in the field of behavior analysis. Professionals who achieve this certification are recognized by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), a globally recognized institution that sets the standard for certification in the field.

BCBAs are trained to understand and modify human behavior and are responsible for evaluating individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities and directing the development of behavior plans. Additionally, BCBAs work with families, insurance companies and other care professionals to recommend individualized and evidence-based treatment strategies. Once the plans have been implemented, BCBAs monitor progress and make changes as needed. BCBAs work closely with registered behavior technicians (RBTs) and observe, assess and supervise their work.

How do I become a BCBA?

If you’re thinking about a career in a rewarding field with a highly favorable employment potential, you may want to consider becoming a BCBA. According to Teach.com, demand for certified BCBAs has increased 1,942% from 2010 to 2018, and salaries are expected to grow.

Becoming a BCBA means following an educational pathway in both undergraduate and graduate studies, as well as specialized training in behavior analysis. Your undergraduate degree does not have to be in any particular major; however, majors such as psychology, education or social work can lay the groundwork for behavior analysis.

There are four different eligibility pathways you can take to become a BCBA. Regardless, you will need to complete either a master’s or doctoral program in an accredited behavior analysis program. The current requirements at the time of publishing this article are in the BCBA Handbook. It’s important to check the latest requirements, as these change over time. BCBAs also must pass an examination and, once certified, maintain that certification.

Most importantly, the BACB requires supervised, hands-on field work to achieve certification. This experience is crucial for developing the practical skills to combine with the theoretical knowledge from the classroom.

Where do BCBAs work?

BCBAs can work in a variety of settings, including:

  • Educational settings: BCBAs collaborate with educators to develop and implement behavior intervention plans for students.
  • Home settings: BCBAs can provide services in-home so children can receive care in a familiar and comfortable location.
  • Hospitals and clinics: BCBAs work with clients with a wide range of behavior issues. They might help create treatment plans for those with mental health issues, behavior problems or even substance abuse.
  • Private practice: Many BCBAs choose to open their own private practices, offering behavior analysis to individuals and families.
  • Research and academia: BCBAs who are passionate about research might find work in academic settings rewarding. They can contribute to the growing body of knowledge in behavior analysis through research and mentoring other BCBAs.
  • Nonprofit and government: Government agencies and non-profits employ many BCBAs to work on policy development and public health initiatives.

Day in the life of a BCBA

Since BCBAs can work in a variety of different capacities and settings, no two BCBAs’ clients or responsibilities will look the same. The daily life of a BCBA can be busy and demanding, but extremely rewarding. The ability to make a huge difference in the lives of their clients and families can be immeasurable. When BCBAs go to work, they are helping others to live better, more fulfilling lives and have better outcomes in ways suitable to the individual client.

Many BCBAs spend their days supervising children as they receive ABA therapy, which is designed to help children on the autism spectrum develop social and emotional skills. ABA is a type of interpersonal therapy in which a child works with a practitioner one-on-one with a goal of improving their social skills through intervention-based principles of learning. ABA can be delivered in a variety of settings, with a goal of helping autistic children function as independently and successfully as possible.

BCBAs might make observations about a child’s behavior, give the RBT feedback or make recommendations on things that should be changed in the child’s program. BCBAs may also interact with the child directly to learn more about them or model intervention strategies so the technician can better implement them.

A rewarding career as a BCBA at Maxim Healthcare Services

Did you know that Maxim Healthcare Services is currently hiring BCBAs in nine states? At Maxim, BCBAs generally work as clinical supervisors. The job description for a clinical supervisor at Maxim involves the following:

  • Developing treatment plans to recommend individualized and evidence-based strategies
  • Providing supervisory oversight to behavioral direct care staff and assistant behavior analysts
  • Monitoring treatment progress and effectiveness to update treatment plans to support client needs and learning styles

Maxim Healthcare Services provides quality care in home- and community-based environments. Our clinical team use a flexible, empathy-based approach tailored to the needs of children across the country. Visit our careers site to explore our open behavioral positions. Not ready to apply? Subscribe to our talent community for personalized job notifications and Maxim updates.