Who can provide ABA for my child?

Board-Certified Behavior Analysts with a master’s degree and appropriate training are identified by the initials BCBA after their name. Those with a doctorate-level degree are identified by the initials BCBA-D. (In Florida only, a BCBA may use the initials FL-CBA or the term Florida Certified Behavior Analyst). Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts, who are supportive team members with undergraduate level degrees and training, can also be certified and identified by the initials BCaBA.

A BCaBA cannot practice alone but can work in therapeutic settings when supervised with someone who is certified at a higher level. The BACB also certifies Registered Behavior Technicians with a minimum of a high school diploma and 40 hours of specialized training who work only under the direct supervision of a BCBA or BCaBA, providing ABA therapy for children. You find therapists who provide ABA therapy for children in our Worldwide directory.

ABA therapy programs also involve therapists, or registered behavior technicians (RBTs). These therapists are trained and supervised by the BCBA. They work directly with children and adults with autism to practice skills and work toward the individual goals written by the BCBA. You may hear them referred to by a few different names: behavioral therapists, line therapists, behavior tech, etc.

Behavior Analyst Certification Board has set high & stringent standards for Professional Behaviour Analysts to practice application of behavior analysis principles in various settings. ABA practicing professionals engaged in many hours of coursework, field work and exams before working independently. Ongoing certification is maintained through the earning of continuing education credits from approved courses. Only through these processes can the high ethical and success standards set by the science be maintained.