A Board-Certified Behavioral Analyst (BCBA) is a graduate-level professional with a certification in applied behavior analysis (ABA)—a field of study that focuses on addressing behavior modification. ABA is a commonly used approach to treat children with autism spectrum disorder, but its application expands to many other areas such as growth and development, education, and human resources.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is also known as autism, is a neurological and developmental disorder that alters learning, behavior, social communication, and interactions. This condition is described as neurological due to imaging studies that show structural and functional differences in the brain of children with autism in comparison to children without this disorder. It is also defined as developmental because the symptoms usually appear during early childhood.

Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder, is a complex condition for which there is no cure. To date, conventional methods such as applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy help provide symptom improvement. Specially designed therapeutic devices and toys as well as medication are additional options for children with autism. ABA is a beneficial approach that focuses on common aspects of behavior that motivate certain actions.

ABA, also known as behavior therapy or behavior modification, encompasses science-based methods derived from the principles of behavior (e.g., attention, access, escape, self-stimulation). This therapeutic approach has been successfully applied across various fields such as mental health, education, child abuse, marriage counseling, general counseling, and business for a range of populations including those with autism or other developmental disabilities.

ABA programs are graduate programs that give you the education you need to become a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA). As a BCBA, you can provide applied behavior analysis (ABA) services that can improve the lives of children with autism.

If your child has recently started ABA therapy, then new ABA terms can be overwhelming. Here are some of the most commonly used ABA terms to know