If you are interested in pursuing a career in the field of applied behavior analysis, there are many different options for certifications. BCBA, BCaBA, RBT, ABA therapist, and the list goes on. With many different choices, it is important to consider all of your options before beginning a certification program, to ensure that your choice aligns with your professional skills and aspirations. Today, we will examine the BCaBA Certification (Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst) and the role of BCaBAs in applied behavior analysis, or ABA therapy.
What exactly is a BCaBA?
A BCaBA, or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst, can provide behavior analysis services, yet there are some limitations on their scope of practice, in comparison to a BCBA, or Board Certified Behavior Analyst. The biggest difference to note is that BCBAs can practice ABA therapy independently, while BCaBAs cannot practice independently. BCaBAs are required to practice ABA services under the supervision of a BCBA or a BCBA-D (a BCBA who has also earned their doctorate degree/PhD).
How do you earn your BCaBA certification?
Bachelor’s degree: First things first, you need to earn a bachelor’s degree. There is not a required major or area of study that you need to complete, but you must complete the coursework to earn your undergraduate degree. Once you have earned your bachelor’s, you can begin to take the next steps towards getting your BCaBA.
BCaBA Coursework: While you can earn your bachelor’s degree in any area of study, there are additional courses you must take that are specific to BCaBAs. A full list of those courses can be found here on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board official website. The website also lists all of the institutions and courses that the Board approves. All of the coursework is in place to ensure you receive comprehensive training to provide ABA therapy in your future professional practice.
Supervisory Hours: Before taking the BCaBA exam, you will be required to gain experience in the field. (The exact requirements for supervision are also listed on the Board website.) To earn the BCaBA certification, you must obtain at least 500 hours of supervision.
Exam: The last step in the process is taking the BCaBA exam! Prior to taking the exam, you must apply to take the test and provide documentation to reflect the completion of all required coursework and supervisory hours. After earning the certification, it will be necessary to complete the recertification process every two years. This process includes continuing education credits, which focus on ethics, supervision, and more.
Do you have questions about the BCaBA certification and ABA therapy?
Contact Chicago ABA Therapy by calling 773-630-4400 to learn about the range of services we provide for children in Chicago including ABA therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and a therapeutic preschool program.
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