Applied behavior analysis—also known as ABA therapy—is a type of treatment commonly used for children with Autism spectrum disorder or related conditions. It helps kids develop essential communication and social skills and minimize harmful behaviors, such as outbursts or tantrums. If you’re interested in becoming an ABA therapist, learn more about what the job entails below.

What Does an ABA Therapist Do?

ABA therapists spend most of their time in one-on-one or group settings with Autistic children, teaching them speech and language and encouraging them to practice various behaviors through positive reinforcement. Depending on their qualifications, an ABA therapist may also oversee other behavioral assessments, create individualized treatment plans for specific students, and oversee lower-level ABA technicians.

How Do You Become an ABA Therapist?

Administering ABA therapy takes patience and a deep understanding of Autism spectrum disorders. There are several types of ABA professionals, all of which require various levels of education, experience, and training.

For example, a Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT) is a paraprofessional who can provide ABA therapy to children under the supervision of a Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst. To be certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) as an RBT, you’ll need to have a high school degree or higher, complete 40 hours of supervised training, and take an RBT exam. You’ll also have to pass a criminal background check.

While not all employers require certification by the BACB to be hired as an ABA therapist, it's usually preferred and can help you secure higher-paying positions. 

To learn more about what it’s like to be an ABA therapist, contact Compass Innovative Behavior Strategies. With locations in Concord, Nashua, and Marlborough, NH, this state-of-the-art facility provides ABA therapy administered by board-certified behavior analysts. They offer innovative educational environments that feature activity centers, sensory gyms, and parent meeting and training rooms, as well as safe and reliable transportation services. To learn more about their programs, visit their website or call (603) 488-5008 today.