Introduction

The Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential is one of the most respected certifications for professionals in the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA). This 5-day intensive training course is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of behavior analysis principles, ethical standards, assessment techniques, and intervention strategies. The course covers topics such as behavior assessment, data collection, behavior modification, functional analysis, and ethical decision-making, preparing participants to sit for the BCBA certification exam. Upon successful completion, participants will be fully prepared to implement ABA strategies to address behavioral concerns and promote positive outcomes in various settings.

Course Objectives

By the end of this training, participants will:

1. Understand the principles and concepts of behavior analysis, including reinforcement, punishment, and stimulus control.
2. Learn how to conduct behavior assessments and use data collection techniques to measure behavior.
3. Gain proficiency in designing and implementing behavior intervention plans based on the principles of ABA.
4. Understand the ethical guidelines and professional standards for behavior analysts.
5. Be fully prepared to take the BCBA certification exam and apply behavior analytic practices in various professional settings.

Who Should Attend?

This course is ideal for:

• Individuals interested in becoming certified behavior analysts or enhancing their skills in applied behavior analysis.
• Educators, therapists, and healthcare professionals working with individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, or behavioral challenges.
• Psychology and social work professionals seeking to specialize in behavior analysis.
• Students or professionals pursuing the BCBA certification to advance their career in behavioral therapy or ABA.

Day 1: Introduction to Behavior Analysis and Basic Principles

• Session 1: Overview of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

  • Definition and history of applied behavior analysis.
  • The role of a BCBA in clinical, educational, and therapeutic settings.
  • Core principles of ABA: Behavior, environment, reinforcement, and punishment.
  • The science of behavior: Understanding and observing observable and measurable behaviors.
  • The importance of using evidence-based interventions and practices in behavior analysis.

• Session 2: Basic Principles of Behavior Analysis

  • Classical and operant conditioning: Stimulus-response relationships and reinforcement schedules.
  • Defining behavior: The ABCs of behavior analysis – Antecedents, Behavior, and Consequences.
  • The principles of reinforcement: Positive and negative reinforcement.
  • The role of punishment: Types of punishment, side effects, and ethical considerations.
  • The use of extinction and stimulus control in behavior modification.

Day 2: Behavior Assessment and Measurement

• Session 3: Conducting Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA)

  • The purpose and process of functional behavior assessment.
  • Methods for identifying the function of behavior: Attention, escape, access to tangibles, and automatic reinforcement.
  • Indirect assessment methods: Interviews, questionnaires, and rating scales.
  • Direct observation methods: ABC data collection, frequency counts, and duration recording.
  • Using FBA results to develop effective behavior intervention plans.

• Session 4: Measurement and Data Collection Techniques

  • Defining behavior in measurable terms: Operational definitions.
  • Methods for collecting data: Continuous vs. discontinuous measurement, frequency, duration, and interval recording.
  • Using graphs and charts to analyze data: Visual analysis and trend identification.
  • Data-based decision making: How to use data to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.
  • Importance of interobserver reliability (IOR) and maintaining consistent measurement procedures.

Day 3: Behavior Intervention and Modification Techniques

• Session 5: Designing Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP)

  • Steps in developing a behavior intervention plan based on FBA results.
  • Selecting appropriate interventions based on behavior functions (e.g., antecedent modifications, reinforcement schedules, and extinction procedures).
  • How to integrate teaching and behavioral procedures into an effective BIP.
  • Tailoring interventions for individual needs and settings.
  • Ethical considerations when implementing behavior change interventions.

• Session 6: Implementing Behavioral Interventions

  • Strategies for increasing desirable behaviors: Positive reinforcement, shaping, and task analysis.
  • Strategies for decreasing undesirable behaviors: Differential reinforcement, punishment procedures, and time-out.
  • Using reinforcement schedules to promote and maintain behavior change: Fixed vs. variable ratios and intervals.
  • Promoting generalization and maintenance of behavior changes across settings and people.
  • Techniques for crisis management and managing severe behaviors.

Day 4: Ethics, Professionalism, and Supervision

• Session 7: Ethical Guidelines for Behavior Analysts

  • Overview of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) Professional and Ethical Compliance Code.
  • Key ethical principles: Respecting client dignity, autonomy, and privacy.
  • Understanding the limitations of behavior analysis and when to refer clients to other professionals.
  • Informed consent, confidentiality, and avoiding dual relationships.
  • Ethical decision-making frameworks in ABA practice.

• Session 8: Supervision and Collaboration

  • The role of the BCBA in supervising and mentoring others in the field.
  • Best practices for providing effective supervision and feedback to behavior technicians and other staff.
  • Collaboration with other professionals: Teachers, healthcare providers, and family members.
  • Documentation and reporting requirements for behavior analysts.
  • Building and maintaining professional relationships with clients and stakeholders.

Day 5: BCBA Exam Preparation and Final Review

• Session 9: BCBA Exam Content Review

  • Review of the BCBA task list: Key areas covered in the certification exam.
  • Understanding the exam structure: Multiple-choice questions and the scoring system.
  • Overview of the four key areas of competence for BCBA certification: 1) Principles of behavior analysis, 2) Assessment, 3) Intervention, and 4) Professionalism and ethics.
  • Exam preparation strategies: Time management, question analysis, and study tips.
  • Practice exam questions to simulate the test-taking experience.

• Session 10: Final Q&A and Certification Exam Preparation

  • Addressing any final questions or concerns about the certification process.
  • Review of critical concepts that are essential for passing the exam.
  • Test-taking strategies: How to approach difficult questions, manage exam time, and stay calm.
  • Next steps after passing the exam: Registering with the BACB, continuing education, and career development.