What is a BCBA Anyways?

As you look for a consultant for your child’s home program or center based programming, you may have come across the credentials “B-C-B-A.” And you may be wondering “what does that mean and do I need a provider with these credentials?”

BCBA stands for Board Certified Behavior Analyst. There are three distinctions for certified behavior analysts:

(1) Bachelor’s degree level – board certified assistant behavior analyst (BCaBA);
(2) Master’s degree level – board certified behavior analyst (BCBA);
(3) Doctoral level – board certified behavior analyst – doctoral (BCBA-D).

All certified behavior analysts have completed coursework specific to behavior analysis, completed at least 1,000 hours of supervised field work experience, and passed a board exam. Certified behavior analysts also are required to complete continuing education credits to maintain their certification.

The following states require a behavior analyst to also be state licensed to practice behavior analysis in that state.
• Arizona
• Kentucky
• Missouri
• Nevada
• Oklahoma
• Wisconsin

When you have a consultant certified as a BCBA, BCaBA, or BCBA-D, you can be confident that this person has a formal education and experience in behavior analysis. However, you want to ensure that your consultant is right for you and your child.

In order for you to make the determination, consider asking the following questions before hiring your consultant:
• Are you currently or in the process of becoming a certified behavior analyst?
• How many years have you provided consultation services to children, adolescents, or adults?
• What are your guiding principles when working with consumers?

If you are looking for a certified behavior analyst in your area, you can find them by using Special Learning’s BCBA National Directory at - https://special-learning.com/bcba.

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