ABA Therapist – School / Home Program

An ABA Therapist works directly with children or adults (often autistic or with developmental disabilities) to build skills and reduce challenging behaviors using Applied Behavior Analysis methods.

Position overview

ABA Therapist / Behavior Therapist / Behavioral Technician (ABA). Reports to: Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) / Clinical Supervisor. Work setting: Clinic, school, home‑based, or hospital behavioral unit, primarily 1:1 sessions with clients.

Key responsibilities

Conduct structured observations and skill/behavior assessments to understand the client’s current abilities, triggers and needs under BCBA guidance. Implement individualized ABA treatment plans designed by the BCBA, using techniques such as prompting, shaping, task analysis and positive reinforcement. Run 1:1 therapy sessions to teach communication, social skills, daily living skills, play, academic readiness and self‑help routines in small, measurable steps.

Collect accurate, real‑time data on target behaviors and skill acquisition during each session using paper or digital systems. Monitor progress, identify behavior trends and share data with the BCBA to help adjust programs and strategies as needed. Manage challenging behaviors using approved behavior intervention plans (BIPs), de‑escalation strategies and safe, ethical responses.

Coach and support parents/caregivers on how to generalize skills at home and in the community and how to respond consistently to behaviors. Maintain a safe, structured, engaging therapy environment and ensure materials are prepared, organized and used according to the plan. Complete session notes, reports and documentation promptly in line with clinical, school or organizational policies.

Qualifications

& certifications Minimum: Bachelor’s degree in psychology, education, special education, behavior analysis or related field (some settings accept diploma/associate with strong ABA experience). Preferred: Certification such as Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) or equivalent ABA‑specific credential, plus experience working with autistic or developmentally delayed children.

Current training in basic first aid and safety; crisis‑management training is an advantage where severe behaviors are present. Skills & competencies Strong behavior‑management skills and ability to follow detailed treatment protocols consistently. High level of patience, emotional resilience and genuine interest in working with neurodiverse children and adults.

Solid communication skills to explain goals and progress to families and to coordinate with supervisors and other therapists. Good data‑collection, observation and basic analysis skills; comfort with using apps or software for ABA data. Reliability, punctuality and professionalism, with openness to ongoing supervision, feedback and training in ABA methods.

Behavioral & organizational expectations Adhere to ethical standards for ABA practice, including respect, dignity, confidentiality and least‑restrictive, evidence‑based interventions. Participate in team meetings, supervision sessions and professional development to keep skills current and maintain quality of care.