ABA therapists are known by various professional titles, reflecting their level of training, certification, and scope of practice within the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). These roles are integral to delivering effective behavioral interventions.
Key Roles in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy
Professionals in ABA therapy typically hold specific credentials or job titles that define their responsibilities and qualifications. These roles range from direct implementers of therapy plans to supervisors and advanced practitioners.
Here are the common titles for ABA therapists and practitioners:
| Title Abbreviation | Full Title | Role and Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| BT | Behavior Therapist | Often entry-level, working under supervision to implement ABA programs directly with clients. |
| RBT | Registered Behavior Technician | A certified paraprofessional who works under the close, ongoing supervision of a BCBA or BCaBA, implementing skill acquisition and behavior reduction plans. |
| BCaBA | Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst | Certified to conduct assessments, design intervention plans, and supervise RBTs, all under the supervision of a BCBA. |
| BCBA | Board Certified Behavior Analyst | A master's-level professional certified to conduct comprehensive behavioral assessments, develop and oversee treatment plans, and supervise other ABA practitioners. |
| BCBA-D | Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral | A BCBA who has also obtained a doctoral degree. Their responsibilities are similar to a BCBA but often include research, advanced practice, or university-level teaching. |
These titles represent a clear career path and hierarchy within the ABA field, ensuring that services are provided by qualified professionals at every level, from direct one-on-one therapy to advanced program development and oversight.
