Hire an ABA Specialist
An applied behavior analyst (ABA) specializes in applying the scientific principles of behavioral analysis to treat problematic behaviors in patients who may be suffering from neurological diseases, developmental difficulties, head trauma, or other mental health issues. They are an integral part of the healthcare industry. They apply their expertise towards patient behavior management, incorporating their knowledge of behavior analysis into treatment plans. ABA specialists work individually or as a part of a healthcare team to assess patients, develop treatment plans, and supervise the implementation of behavior intervention plans (BIPs) in homes, clinics, or hospitals. ABAs may have a private practice or work in a long-term care facility, diagnosing and treating post-acute care issues with residential patients. These professionals earn an average salary of $61,070, with bonuses averaging $1,495. Top rung ABAs make an average of $77,000. The field is continuously evolving with new opportunities and higher earning potential for ABAs than ever before.
ABA Specialist Key responsibilities
The main tasks and responsibilities assigned to an ABA specialist include: implementation of BIPs created by clinical supervisors, motivating patients and helping them reach their highest potential, and serving a model for the patients and families to work on regularly. They teach communication skills, social, and independence skills in line with ABA principles. They are also responsible for accurately recording treatment data for future interventions. ABA specialists participate in clinical team discussions to detail client progress and get specific feedback from their superior. They collaborate and engage with behavior treatment teams to devise the best treatment plans for the patients. They are in charge of implementing individualized skill acquisition and behavior reduction protocols based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). They conduct follow-up assessments and adjust the BIP as necessary to keep the patient's care on track with changes over time. They also might be in charge of advising other healthcare providers or specialists, assisting them in effectively executing larger behavioral management plans with patients who have extensive behavioral issues.
ABA Specialist essential requirements
ABA specialists are required to have a strong educational background due to the complexities of administering behavior analysis treatments in the healthcare setting. A master's degree or higher is usually required. Hiring managers prefer candidates who have gained valuable experience by volunteering in clinical settings. Applicants should have an energetic attitude and the desire to help people with developmental disabilities. They should ensure the patient's safety and maintain the confidentiality of clients at all times. The candidate must be open to working in shifts and flexible with timings. Lastly, it is essential that the candidate clears a criminal background check.
