Behavior InterventionistAt — Acuity Behavior Solutions, LLC
An ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapist works primarily with individuals—often children—who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other developmental conditions. Their goal is to improve behaviors and skills that enhance quality of life, using evidence-based techniques rooted in behavioral psychology.
Tasks:
\ud83e\udde0 Core Domains & Tasks
1. Measurement
Prepare for data collection
Implement continuous and discontinuous measurement (e.g., frequency, duration, interval sampling)
Use permanent product recording
Enter data and update graphs
Describe behavior and environment in observable, measurable terms
2. Assessment
Conduct preference assessments
Assist with individualized assessments (e.g., curriculum-based, developmental)
Support functional behavior assessments
3. Skill Acquisition
Follow written skill acquisition plans
Use reinforcement strategies (e.g., conditioned/unconditioned)
Implement teaching procedures: discrete trial, naturalistic, chaining, shaping
Use prompting and fading techniques
Promote generalization and maintenance
Apply token economies
4. Behavior Reduction
Follow behavior reduction plans
Identify functions of behavior
Modify antecedents and use differential reinforcement
Implement extinction and crisis procedures
5. Documentation & Reporting
Communicate with supervisors
Seek clinical direction
Report relevant variables affecting clients
Write objective session notes
6. Professional Conduct & Scope of Practice
Maintain client dignity
Follow ethical guidelines
Respect boundaries and confidentiality
Respond appropriately to feedback
Training:
At least 2 supervision meetings per month, as well as data collection required daily, and a BCBA that oversees all things that the BI does
Learning Outcome:
\ud83d\udcda Core Concepts of ABA
Behavior and Environment: Understanding how behavior is influenced by environmental factors.
Reinforcement and Punishment: Learning how consequences affect future behavior.
Functions of Behavior: Identifying why behaviors occur (e.g., attention, escape, access to tangibles, sensory).
Measurement and Data Collection: Tracking behavior accurately using frequency, duration, latency, etc.
\ud83e\udde0 Skill Development
Discrete Trial Training (DTT): Teaching skills in structured, repetitive formats.
Natural Environment Teaching (NET): Promoting learning in everyday settings.
Prompting and Fading: Using cues to teach skills and gradually removing them.
Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs): Implementing strategies to reduce challenging behaviors.
\ud83e\uddea Ethics and Professional Conduct
BACB Ethics Code: Learning the ethical standards set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.
Confidentiality and Consent: Respecting client privacy and obtaining proper permissions.
Professional Boundaries: Maintaining appropriate relationships with clients and families.
\ud83e\uddcd\u2642\ufe0f Client Interaction and Supervision
Working with Diverse Populations: Especially children with autism or developmental delays.
Receiving Supervision: RBTs and BCaBAs work under the supervision of BCBAs.
Parent Training: Supporting families in applying ABA strategies at home.
\ud83d\udee0 Hands-On Experience
Implementing Programs: Carrying out treatment plans designed by supervisors.
Adjusting Based on Data: Learning to make decisions based on behavioral trends.
Crisis Management: Safely responding to aggressive or self-injurious behaviors.