BACBs

BACBs is the term sometimes used to refer to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, a nonprofit organization that certifies behavior analysts and sets professional standards for practice. The BACB’s mission is to protect consumers by establishing, promoting, and enforcing high standards of education, training, and ethics in behavior analysis. The organization’s credentials are widely recognized in education, clinical, and organizational settings and are often required for professional practice or licensure.

The BACB awards several credentials. The Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is the standard certification for independent practice; the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) serves as a paraprofessional credential; the BCBA-D is the doctoral-level certification indicating advanced training in behavior analysis. The Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is a paraprofessional credential for individuals who provide direct ABA services under supervision. The BACB also maintains exams and certification standards, with credentials tied to adherence to the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts.

Requirements and process: BCBA/BCaBA candidates must complete approved degree programs, required fieldwork with supervision, and pass a certification examination; ongoing supervision is required for fieldwork. RBT candidates must complete mandated training, pass an exam, and engage in ongoing supervision within practice settings. All certificants must comply with the BACB’s Professional and Ethical Compliance Code and maintain certification through periodic renewals and continuing education.

Governance and impact: The BACB is governed by a board of directors and professional committees and maintains a credentialing database with published guidelines. The credentials are widely recognized by educational and clinical employers and are often aligned with state licensure requirements. The organization has faced debates about costs, renewal cycles, and accessibility, but continues to influence the field of behavior analysis.