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Important Factors to Look for in an ABA Therapist
June 19, 2025
Choosing an ABA therapist for your child is a process that requires attention to detail and a good understanding of what you need. An ABA therapist can make a world of difference in your child’s life, but you need to make sure they are the right fit.
I once worked with a family who had already been through a couple of therapists and weren’t seeing the progress they hoped for. After reviewing the qualifications and goals with the therapist, we identified a few key issues with their previous approach.
Finding the right therapist for their child opened up new doors for progress, and it’s something I’m passionate about helping other families achieve.
In this guide, I’ll cover the most important factors—like qualifications, experience, and their approach to therapy—to help you make an informed decision.
Credentials and Qualifications of an ABA Therapist
When it comes to ABA therapy, credentials matter. The therapist should be certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a key certification to look for.
These professionals have gone through rigorous training and testing to ensure they know how to help kids in the most effective ways.
Essential Certifications and Licensure
In addition to a BCBA certification, you may also work with a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), who assists the BCBA during therapy.
RBTs go through 40 hours of training and are supervised by a BCBA, so they’re still highly qualified but have a more hands-on role.
Another important factor is state licensure. Make sure the therapist is licensed to practice in your state. This ensures they meet local regulations, which can vary, so it’s important to verify their qualifications.
Educational Background and Training
To become a BCBA, the therapist usually needs a master’s degree in psychology, special education, or a similar field. This provides them with a strong theoretical foundation in behavior analysis.
However, a solid education is only part of the equation. Real-world, hands-on experience is key to ensuring the therapist can effectively apply their knowledge to help your child.
Experience and Specialization in ABA Therapy
While qualifications are important, experience is where a therapist can truly shine.
A therapist who’s been working with kids for several years will have seen a variety of situations, giving them the ability to adapt their approach to meet your child’s specific needs.
Years of Practice and Relevant Experience
The more experience a therapist has, the better they are at adjusting their methods to suit each child’s unique challenges.
Experienced therapists know how to adapt as children grow or as needs change, ensuring your child gets the best support throughout their therapy journey.
Expertise with Specific Age Groups or Diagnoses
Every child is different, and so are their needs. A therapist with experience working with children of the same age as your child, or with a similar diagnosis (like autism spectrum disorder), will have a better understanding of what your child needs at this stage.
Whether your child is a toddler or a teenager, make sure the therapist has experience with that age group.
Some therapists specialize in certain conditions or behaviors, so if your child struggles with specific issues, it can be helpful to find a therapist who has experience dealing with those challenges.
Assessment and Treatment Planning Process
ABA therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every child is different, so treatment plans must be customized. This starts with a comprehensive autism assessment.
Conducting Comprehensive Initial Assessments
The first step in ABA therapy is a detailed assessment to understand your child’s current abilities and challenges. This includes observing behavior, collecting data, and talking to you as a parent.
It’s crucial for the therapist to get a clear picture of what’s going on so they can create a tailored plan for your child.
Developing and Customizing Treatment Plans
After the assessment, the therapist will develop a customized treatment plan that targets your child’s specific needs. This plan should include measurable goals and activities that focus on helping your child grow.
A good therapist will regularly track progress using data from each session to adjust the plan as needed and ensure the therapy is always moving in the right direction.
Communication and Collaboration with Families
ABA therapy is most effective when there’s strong communication between the therapist and your family.
Collaboration is key to success, as the therapist should work with you to help your child make progress both in therapy and at home.
Family Involvement in Therapy
Your involvement in the therapy process is crucial. Therapists should teach you how to reinforce the skills your child is learning in therapy during your daily routines.
This way, progress continues outside of therapy sessions, and everyone in the family is on the same page.
Frequency and Quality of Progress Updates
Your therapist should keep you updated on your child’s progress regularly. It’s helpful to ask about how often you’ll receive updates and what kind of feedback you’ll get.
These updates should be based on real data so you can track your child’s improvements over time.
Ethical Standards and Professionalism
Ethics are non-negotiable in ABA therapy. You want to make sure the therapist follows strict ethical guidelines and operates with professionalism at all times.
Adherence to the BACB Ethics Code
Therapists should always follow the BACB Ethics Code, which includes maintaining confidentiality, respecting client privacy, and putting your child’s well-being first.
Ethical therapists work within these guidelines to ensure the therapy process remains focused on helping your child.
Maintaining Client Confidentiality and Respect
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship. Your child’s personal information should always be kept private, and only shared with people who absolutely need to know.
Respect and trust are built when therapists maintain this confidentiality and create a safe space for you and your child.
Conclusion
Choosing the right ABA therapist is a big decision for your family, but it’s one that can make a huge difference in your child’s life.
Look for a therapist who is well-qualified, experienced, and follows ethical guidelines. The right therapist will create a customized treatment plan, work with your family, and help your child develop valuable skills while managing challenging behaviors.
By keeping these key factors in mind, you can feel confident that you’re choosing the best possible therapist for your child’s needs.
Looking for a skilled, compassionate ABA therapist for your child? Divine Steps ABA offers expert ABA therapy services in North Carolina tailored to your child’s unique needs.
With certified therapists and a personalized approach, we ensure that your child receives the highest quality care.
Contact us today to learn how we can help your child thrive with customized ABA therapy that delivers real results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I verify an ABA therapist’s credentials?
Check if the therapist is certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) and ask about their education and experience. You can also read reviews or ask for references to get a sense of their reputation.
What questions should I ask during the initial consultation?
Ask the therapist about their experience with ABA techniques, how they develop treatment plans, and how they keep families involved. It’s also important to inquire about how they track progress and what updates you’ll receive.
How is progress measured in ABA therapy?
Therapists track progress by collecting data on specific behaviors and skills. They use this information to adjust the treatment plan as necessary, ensuring the therapy is working effectively.
Sources:
- https://www.bacb.com/ethics-information/ethics-codes/
- https://online.regiscollege.edu/online-masters-degrees/master-science-applied-behavior-analysis/resources/how-to-become-an-applied-behavior-analyst-aba-therapist/
- https://www.bacb.com/bcba/
- https://www.appliedbehavioranalysisedu.org/how-to-become-aba-therapist/
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/applied-behavior-analysis
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