Do you have a passion for helping people? Are you looking for a career that will allow you to turn this passion into a career? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 68 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder. These numbers show the increasing need for services and providers to assist children diagnosed with autism. Would you like to work with this population? In this article, we will discuss some of the autism career opportunities that exist within the field.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapist
This person works directly with individuals receiving services, in groups, one-on-one, in the field, or in a center. An ABA Therapist helps these individuals learn skills, and reduce problem behaviors. Working closely with a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), the therapist observes behaviors to develop appropriate communication, feeding, behavior, and social skills.
Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT)
This position works directly with individuals, under the close and ongoing supervision of a BCBA. The BCBA will design assessment and intervention plans, and the RBT is typically responsible for the direct implementation of these services. This certification is also typically required by most insurance companies.
Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA)
The BCBA typically serves as a member of the clinical and administrative team supervising, overseeing, and designing behavioral treatments and interventions. The BCBA will also provide staff and parental training to implement these behavioral strategies. While many BCBAs hold supervisor or owner positions, there is a lot of flexibility with this position, and you can still have a hands-on role with individuals. The position typically requires:
- Masters degree and Behavior Analyst certification
- 2+ years clinical and management experience
- Demonstrated expertise in assessment and intervention strategies
- Continuing education required
Autism Career Opportunities at Verbal Beginnings
For a complete list of requirements and eligibility criteria, visit BACB. Verbal Beginnings is a company headquartered in the Mid-Atlantic area offering a variety of autism career opportunities in many geographic locations. Contact Verbal Beginnings today to kick-start your career of choice!
