Continuing Education and Professional Development

In the rapidly evolving field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), continuing education and professional development are essential for maintaining competence, staying current with best practices, and advancing your career. As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), you are required to complete ongoing learning activities to maintain your certification and provide high-quality services to your clients.

The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) mandates that BCBAs earn a minimum of 32 continuing education (CE) credits every two years, with at least four (4) CEUs in ethics and three (3) CEUs in supervision. However, effective professional development goes beyond meeting the minimum requirements. It involves actively seeking opportunities to expand your knowledge, refine your skills, and stay abreast of the latest research and trends in ABA.

Some options for continuing education and professional development include:

• Workshops and Conferences: Attending workshops, seminars, or conferences organized by professional associations or reputable providers can offer valuable learning experiences and networking opportunities.

• Online Courses and Webinars: Many organizations and universities offer online courses, webinars, or self-paced learning modules covering a wide range of ABA topics, allowing for flexible and convenient learning.

• Professional Readings: Staying updated on the latest research and literature by reading peer-reviewed journals, books, and other publications in the field of ABA.

• Supervision and Mentorship: Receiving ongoing supervision or mentorship from experienced BCBAs can provide valuable feedback, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.

• Specialty Certifications: Pursuing additional certifications or specializations (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, Organizational Behavior Management) can deepen your expertise in specific areas of interest.

• Teaching and Presenting: Sharing your knowledge and experiences by teaching courses, conducting workshops, or presenting at conferences can enhance your understanding and contribute to the broader ABA community.

At L.E.A.P ABA Therapy, we are committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development. Our experienced supervisors will not only guide you in meeting the BACB's CE requirements but also provide personalized recommendations and resources tailored to your specific interests and career goals.

Checklist: Creating a Professional Development Plan

1. Conduct a self-assessment to identify your strengths, areas for improvement, and professional goals.

2. Review the BACB's continuing education requirements and deadlines to ensure compliance.

3. Research and identify reputable CE providers, workshops, conferences, or online courses that align with your learning needs and interests.

4. Explore opportunities for supervision, mentorship, or specialized certifications that can enhance your skills and expertise.

5. Develop a timeline and budget for your professional development activities, considering factors such as availability, cost, and location.

6. Seek guidance and recommendations from experienced supervisors or colleagues to optimize your learning experiences.

7. Implement your professional development plan, actively participate in learning activities, and document your CE credits.

8. Regularly evaluate and adjust your plan based on evolving professional goals, industry trends, and personal growth.

By creating and following a comprehensive professional development plan, and leveraging the support and resources provided by our experienced supervisors at L.E.A.P ABA Therapy, you can maintain your professional competence, stay ahead of industry trends, and advance your career as a highly skilled and knowledgeable BCBA.