BCBAs

Board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) are professionals certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) who specialize in applied behavior analysis (ABA). BCBAs design, implement, and supervise ABA-based interventions intended to increase adaptive behaviors and decrease problematic behaviors across individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental, medical, or educational needs. They commonly work in schools, clinics, hospitals, residential facilities, and private practice, often as part of multidisciplinary teams and with supervision duties for other practitioners.

Certification requirements typically include holding a master's degree or higher from a qualifying program, completing BACB-approved coursework in behavior analysis, and accumulating supervised fieldwork experience. After meeting education and fieldwork requirements, candidates must pass the BACB certification examination. In many regions, additional state or provincial licensing or credentialing may apply.

Practice scope and responsibilities for BCBAs include conducting assessments such as functional behavior assessments to identify environmental contingencies that maintain behavior, developing and implementing behavior-change programs, and monitoring progress through data-based evaluation. They supervise and train RBTs (registered behavior technicians) and, where applicable, BCaBAs, and collaborate with families, educators, and other professionals to support treatment plans and goals.

Ethics and ongoing professional standards are central to BCBA practice. BCBAs must adhere to the BACB’s Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts and maintain certification through continuing education to ensure up-to-date competencies and responsible service delivery.