If you’re passionate about helping individuals with behavioral and developmental disabilities, becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in NJ can be a fulfilling career path for you. The BCBA certification is a respected credential that demonstrates a high level of expertise in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). If you’re considering a career in this field, here is a detailed guide on how to become a BCBA in NJ.
What is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst?
A Board Certified Behavior Analyst or BCBA, is a certified professional who works with individuals that need behavioral support. BCBA’s use Applied Behavior Analysis techniques with their patients to treat the behavioral issues they’re experiencing. Board Certified Behavior Analysts assess, analyze, and develop therapy plans for behavior-related challenges. Behavioral Analysts are qualified to work with individuals that are on the spectrum or those with other developmental disabilities.
BCBAs have several responsibilities and duties. Some of these responsibilities include:
- Conduct curricular assessments as assigned
- Use principals of applied behavior analysis in practice settings to treat patients affected with a range of conditions that are negatively impacting their behavior
- Develop behavior intervention plans for clients in a timely and efficient manner
- Supervise ABA therapists and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT) as they perform applied behavior services
- Maintain consumer records and completes data and progress reports
- Educate families on the implementation of behavior support plans and strategies
- Review skill and behaviors data as scheduled
- Participate in initial consumer evaluations
Where do BCBAs Work?
You can find BCBAs in many different work settings. Having the opportunity to work in a variety of settings allows them to work with a diverse group of individuals and environments. Common settings for BCBAs to work in include:
- Schools
- Private Practices
- Clinics and other Healthcare Facilities
- Social Services
- Research Institutions
How to Become a BCBA in NJ?
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to become a BCBA in NJ:
- Understanding the Role of a BCBA
Before you embark on this journey of becoming a Behavioral Certified Behavioral Analyst, it’s crucial for you to understand the role of a BCBA. BCBAs design and implement behavior modification programs based off of ABA principles. They work in a wide variety of work settings and aim to enhance individuals behavioral issues and skill development. This role requires patience, strong analytical skills, and a deep understanding of behavior management techniques.
- Meet the Education Requirements
To become a BCBA, you first need to complete an undergraduate and graduate-level education. The school you receive your diplomas from must be from an accredited institution by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). Here are the education requirements:
- Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree: The first step towards becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in New Jersey is to obtain a bachelor’s degree in education, psychology, or a related field. Receiving your bachelor’s degree provides a strong foundation in the principles of behavior analysis and human behavior.
- Obtain a Master’s Degree: After you have obtained your Bachelor’s degree you must next obtain a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Education, or Psychology. Receiving your master’s degree provides the advanced skills and knowledge you need in order to become a successful ABA.
- Gain Relevant Experience
After you have completed the educational requirements, it’s important to gain relevant experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities. You can gain experience through doing internships, supervised fieldwork, working as a behavior technician, or volunteering.
- Pass the BCBA Exam
After you have obtained your master’s degree the next step is to pass the BCBA exam. The requirements to be eligible to take the BCBA exam includes:
- Graduate degree in Psychology, Behavior Analysis, or Education from an accredited program
- Completed supervised fieldwork in behavior analysis. Fieldwork hours required to qualify are either 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork or 1,500 hours of concentrated supervised fieldwork.
- Apply for State Licensure
In order to practice as a BCBA in NJ, you must apply for licensure after passing the BCBA exam. To apply for licensure in New Jersey the basic components of the ABA application are as follows:
- Verification of your BCBA certification
- Graduate transcripts from an accredited program
- Affidavit of good moral character
- Jurisprudence orientation
- Verification of any licensure held in any other state you may have
- Maintain Your Certification
The BCBA certification is only valid for two years. The Board Analyst Certification Board (BACB) requires all BCBAs to meet specific Continuing Education Unit (CEU) requirements. It is mandatory to complete 32 continuing education units and 4 ECU’s must revolve around ethics. BCBAs can earn CEUs through three different main activities:
- Teaching behavior analysis classes at a qualifying institution or at a BACB-approved ACE event.
- Learning by attending events from ACE providers, participating in BACB certification activities, or completing behavior-analytic graduate courses
- Publishing articles in peer-reviewed journals or writing review/decision letters for behavioral analysis articles.
Conclusion
Becoming a BCBA in New Jersey involves a combination of education, practical experience, and ongoing professional development. The journey requires dedication and patience but opens doors to a rewarding career by helping individuals improve their lives through behavior analysis. By following this step-by-step guide on how to become a BCBA in NJ, you’ll be on your way to becoming a successful Board Certified Behavior Analyst and making a significant impact on others. If you’re looking for a BCBA job in NJ, send us your resume and we’ll get you started with your dream job!