how to become a bcba
For people who like to help others and are interested in psychology or education, becoming a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) can be a rewarding career. In this article, we explain what a BCBA does and how to become one, including answers to some common questions about the role like their education requirements and how much money BCBAs make.
What does a BCBA do?
A BCBA develops treatment plans to correct unwanted behavior and encourage positive traits. They analyze how a patient's motivation affects their behavior, then create an environment that facilitates progress. BCBAs may work with families, teachers or other psychological professionals to monitor and support patients.
A BCBA may perform the following functions:
- Examining people with behavioral issues
- Studying how changes in the environment affect people's behavior
- Creating treatment plans to correct unwanted behaviors
- Using research principles to facilitate behavioral changes
- Working in conjunction with behavior analysis assistants to help clients with their treatments
- Communicating with patients, their family members and other healthcare professionals involved in the treatment process
- Overseeing and organizing a selection of Applied Behavioral Analysis programs and interventions
- Creating awareness for professionals who design learning programs and valuations for individual patients and groups
Related: Learn About Being a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
How to become a BCBA
BCBAs need to complete various educational, training and certification requirements before they can practice. Here are five steps you can take to become a BCBA:
1. Earn a master's degree
BCBAs need a master's degree in behavioral analysis, education or psychology from an accredited program to be considered for employment. A master's in applied behavior analysis gets students ready to work as independent consultants in education or mental health.
Coursework should include psychology, child psychology, developmental psychology, early development, emotional impact of disabilities, behavioral and perceptual development and various therapy courses. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) requires students to get a C+ or higher in all of their coursework.
Related: 15 Top Psychology Degree Jobs
2. Undergo supervised fieldwork
BCBA candidates need to complete a practicum of at least 1,000 hours as part of their master's degree program. However, if your program doesn't include a qualifying practicum, you will need at least 1,500 hours of fieldwork. Fieldwork involves gaining practical experience in a behavior analysis setting.
Under the supervision of an experienced BCBA, you'll evaluate patients, develop treatment plans, monitor progress and work closely with families to continue encouraging positive behavior. You should document each activity and log all hours to ensure you meet fieldwork criteria.
3. Get certified
To become certified as a BCBA, you'll need to pass the national BACB exam administered through Pearson VUE. The four-hour exam contains 160 multiple-choice questions with content areas like basic behavior analytic skills, behavior change considerations and client-centered responsibilities.
BCBAs need to renew their certification every two years by completing 32 continuing education units, like attending seminars or workshops or completing additional coursework.
4. Obtain a state license
Some states require BCBAs to earn a license in addition to their BACB certification. For example, New York requires a licensed behavior analyst (LBA) license. Research your state's requirements to determine if you need to apply for a license to practice.
5. Apply for BCBA jobs
After becoming certified and licensed, you'll begin applying for BCBA jobs. Your practicum or fieldwork should be featured on your resume, while a strong BCBA cover letter could help you stand out from other candidates.
Related: 15 Jobs You Can Get in Applied Behavior Analysis
BCBA FAQs
Answers to the following frequently asked questions will help you gain a better understanding of becoming a BCBA:
How much money do BCBAs make?
The average salary in the United States for a BCBA is $71,825 per year, with a range of $52,423 to $98,407 per year. A BCBA's salary also depends on their experience and the size, type and location of the facility in which they work. For the most up-to-date salary information from Indeed, click on the link provided.
What's the job outlook for BCBAs?
While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn't have specific job data on BCBAs, the job outlook for a related career as a psychologist is promising. Between 2020 and 2030, jobs in this field are expected to grow 8%.
How hard is it to become a BCBA?
Some applicants may find the BCBA exam difficult, but plenty of study courses and materials are available to help you feel more prepared. The BACB also allows applicants to retake the exam 30 days from the date of their last attempt.
Where do BCBAs work?
BCBAs often work in schools, hospitals, mental health centers, clinics, nonprofits and government agencies. BCBAs who work in schools can be placed in a special education arrangement in some districts, serve as consultants and train teachers.
Do I need a doctoral degree to become a BCBA?
No. The BACB actually offers a separate certification for those who have earned a Ph.D. or Psy.D.: The Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral. A BCBA-D is essentially the same as a BCBA, but you need a doctorate to earn it.
Are BCBAs researchers?
While BCBAs assist people with behavioral and emotional disorders, their duties may involve getting into the lab and using research facilities to develop programs and approaches that will help solve clients' problems.
What critical skills do BCBAs need?
To be a successful BCBA, you'll need a unique skill set aside from technical skills. Some common soft skills you should develop include:
Read more: The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace
Related BCBA career paths
If you're not sure a career as a BCBA is right for you, the following related jobs might be worth considering:
how to become a bcba
Source: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-bcba
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