A BCBA is an individual who is credentialed to provide Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services. They have obtained a master’s degree, accrued necessary supervision hours, and passed an examination prior to receiving their credentials. To stay up to date on best practices and ethical considerations, they obtain continuing education hours. BCBAs spend their time overseeing treatment for their clients, providing support to their team of therapists, and making critical decisions on how treatment is carried out. They analyze how a client’s motivation affects their behavior, then create an environment that facilitates progress. BCBAs may work with families, teachers or other professionals to monitor and support progress. Often times, BCBAs are providing direct supervision to others, including BCaBAs (Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts), RBTs (Registered Behavior Technicians), and graduate students wishing to become certified themselves. They apply the basic principles of ABA with not only their clients, but also their mentees. Consider BCBAs the glue that holds the team together, creating opportunities for growth and success for all.
