Behavior Analyst Training- Finding Good Aba Therapists

By Author: Janet John
Total Articles: 8
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ABA (applied behavior analysis) therapists typically work with a child one on one that has a diagnosis of a pervasive developmental disorder or autism. The main ABA interventions used are typically in the form of discrete trial training. Families can hire a therapist to come into the home and work with their child one on one or look for a private program, center or school that employs ABA therapists to work with attending children.

What should you look for in a therapist?

When looking for an ABA therapist, look for someone that is upbeat, loving and affectionate. The more animated a therapist is the more likely the therapist will have an impact on the child. If possible try to get a video of the therapist working with another child. Watch to be sure that the therapist provides reinforcement immediately (within 1/2 second) following the desired behavior and make sure the therapist is good at recognizing all behavior that should be reinforced and not just those specifically outlined in the program currently being implemented.

For example, if a child doesn't do the outlined behavior, but does sit still with ...
... his/her hands in lap and says words/sounds that he or she wouldn't normally say, some form of praise should be given to recognize these outstanding behaviors as well.

It is also recommended that the ABA therapist have supervision from a trained behavior analyst training if possible. This will ensure that maximum progress is made and that programs are being followed as intended to avoid regression. There are two levels of certification for Behavior Analysis. Board Certified assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBA) and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA).

Currently, there are not any other official types of ABA certification. This has been confusing for some parents and families as individuals may claim to have ABA certification. They may have taken a class or been trained in ABA and received some sort of paper that so called "certifies" them in ABA, but this is not an official nationally recognized certification like the BCBA or BCaBA.

Where can you find an ABA therapist?

Usually there are local behavioral consulting firms or centers that will employ therapists to come into your home. Another method may be to put an ad on craig's list or in the paper to find a local therapist. Just remember to always check references if finding one this way. There is a list of centers and schools divided by country and state that claim to provide ABA therapy at http:// www.maximumpotentialkids.com. Some local schools will also have ABA therapists that are interested in additional work in homes for private pay, so you can contact the schools to see if there are any therapists available near you.

Behavior Analyst Training - ABA therapy can be expensive with pay ranging anywhere from $10-$100/ per hour depending on the type of service provided, the area in which you live and the individual's credentials. Many states are pushing for the approval of insurance companies to fund this treatment at least partially due to it being an empirically validated treatment for autism.

It teaches you how to implement applied behavior analysis and provides tailored programs for your child's specific needs, but does have a monthly subscription fee. Being that autism is becoming more and more prevalent, ABA resources and ABA therapists should become more recognized and available with time.

About the Author:

Behavior Analyst Training - Maximum Potential had developed a video based training program that enables school systems, parents and therapists with the ability to learn the skills necessary to provide ABA Therapy to their students and children. Our program was developed by two PhD BCBA’s with over 25 years combined experience in both private and school settings.