Board Certified Behavioral Analysts (BCBAs) are integral to ABA therapy and the wider behavioral analysis framework. BCBA certification is internationally recognized and sets the standards for ethical and professional conduct in the industry.
ABA therapy is constantly evolving, and therapists must keep up-to-date with the latest techniques, research, and best practices to stay on top of their game. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are vital in this aspect and are critical to maintaining BCBA certification.
We’ll have a quick look at BCBA certification before we delve into how to maintain it.
What is a BCBA Certification?
For those working in behavioral analysis, a BCBA certification is a testament to the individual’s knowledge and skill. It’s more than just a credential; it shows that the individual is committed to ensuring ethical practices and professionalism in their work. It is often a prerequisite to higher-level positions within the field.
What are the BCBA requirements for certification?
So, how to become a BCBA-certified professional? There is an incredibly stringent set of requirements to become a certified BCBA. These include:
- Degree and coursework requirements: You must have a minimum of a graduate degree from an accredited institution, and complete specific coursework in behavior analysis, which includes either 270 classroom hours or 225 hours of precise content allocations.
- Supervised fieldwork experience: The completion of supervised independent fieldwork in behavior analysis. You’ll need at least 1,500 hours of fieldwork, not over 50 hours a week, and 75% of these hours must involve in-person contact directly with clients.
- Certification exam: BCBAs must pass a comprehensive exam once they have completed the above requirements.
Maintaining BCBA certification
Being a BCBA isn’t as simple as passing your exam and being qualified for life. This ongoing learning process involves continuing education and adherence to strict ethical standards. Let’s delve into these below.
Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
What is a CEU? Continuing Education Units, or CEUs for ABA therapists, are Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) mandated measurements that ensure BCBAs stay current with advancements in their field. They are a means to continually enhance the knowledge, skills, and expertise critical to the highest level of care in a constantly evolving field, which is evident if you look at the history of ABA in the US.
BCBA professionals must complete at least 32 units of continuing education every two years as part of the renewal of their BCBA certification. Supervisors must include four CEUs in Ethics and three in Supervision.
Seven types of approved CEUs can be undertaken to earn BCBA recertification:
- College or university coursework: Behavior analysis-related courses from approved institutions at graduate or undergraduate level. 50 minutes of classroom instruction counts as one CEU.
- Authorized events: Certain events approved by the BACB. You must receive a certificate or letter from the provider.
- Non-authorized events: Attend behavior analysis-related seminars, conferences, workshops, and more. Signed certificates are required.
- Instruction: Teaching college and university coursework.
- BACB events: Seminars, conferences, and events provided by the BCBA Board.
- Examinations: Passing the BCBA or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) exam.
- Scholarly activities: Publish ABA-related articles in peer-reviewed journals or as a reviewer or editor for such articles.
Adherence to ethical standards
Maintaining BCBA certification isn’t just about keeping pace with professional development. Although CEUs are the standardized measurement used for recertification, BCBAs must also adhere to strict ethical standards.
The BACB regularly updates its requirements to ensure that a high standard of ethical behavior and competence is maintained in practices worldwide. A critical component of becoming a BCBA is the commitment to these ethical standards, and any violations could lead to serious repercussions, such as disciplinary actions and revocation of certification.
Why is maintaining BCBA certification important?
There are several reasons why maintaining BCBA certification is critical for ABA therapy professionals.
- Career opportunities: The certification is a mark of expertise and professionalism. It opens doors to a multitude of high-level employment opportunities.
- Expanded network: Recertification standards like CEUs allow you to connect with a range of professionals across the field and collaborate with a network of like-minded people.
- Staying updated and enhancing skills: Maintaining certifications ensure that BCBAs stay up-to-date with recent developments in technology, research, and ethical guidelines. It enhances and improves skills by acquiring valuable tools.
- Client confidence and care: A BCBA certification instills a higher level of trust and confidence that they are receiving the best care possible.
Missing Piece is passionate about continuing education that contributes to ABA therapy
Staying on top of the ever-evolving field of ABA Therapy is critical to contributing to advancements in the behavioral analysis field as a whole. Far from solely benefitting the individual with the BCBA certification, it ensures that clients receive the highest standard of care and commitment.
At Missing Piece, we are committed to service and strong relationships with our clients. We strongly believe that our work can help your practice focus on providing the best possible care for your clients. Contact us to find out more.