Career Paths with Graham Behavior Services
At Graham Behavior Services, our mission is to deliver high-quality, evidence-based therapy that helps individuals with autism spectrum disorders and behavioral challenges achieve meaningful progress. Every member of our team, whether providing direct care, therapeutic interventions, or clinical oversight, plays a crucial role in bringing our mission to life.
What is a CCP?
Client Care Professionals (CCP) or Direct Support Professionals (DSP) are essential caregivers who work with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them to lead more independent and fulfilling lives.
Client Care Professionals FAQs
What is the process to become a CCP?
- Be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a background check and meet eligibility requirements (e.g., valid driver's license)
- Complete a comprehensive training course
- Participate in hands-on experience through supervised fieldwork
- Obtain necessary certifications (e.g., CPR/First Aid, Medication Administration)
- Commit to working as a CCP, often with a minimum weekly hour requirement
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How can GBS help me?
Graham Behavior Services supports aspiring CCPs by offering:
Extensive training programs to build core competencies
- Assistance with certification requirements
- Opportunities for professional growth within the field of human services
What's the difference between a CCP and a RBT?
- Focus: RBTs specifically implement behavior intervention plans based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles, while CCPs provide broader daily living support and teach various life skills.
- Certification: RBTs must complete a 40-hour training course, pass a competency assessment, and obtain certification through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). CCPs typically require less formal certification but may need specific training related to their role.
- Supervision: RBTs work under the close supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), whereas CCPs may work more independently or under general supervision.
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Responsibilities:
RBTs: Implement behavior plans, collect data, assist with skill acquisition programs, and conduct functional assessments.
CCPs: Assist with daily living activities, teach life skills, promote community integration, and support overall independence.
Client focus: RBTs often work specifically with individuals with autism spectrum disorders or other developmental disabilities, while CCPs may work with a broader range of clients with various intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Scope of practice: RBTs have a more specialized role focused on behavior modification and skill acquisition through structured ABA interventions. CCPs have a wider scope, encompassing various aspects of daily care and skill development.
I'm a CCP who wants to become a RBT. What does that process look like? ​
Enroll in a 40-hour RBT training course approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)
Pass the RBT competency assessment
Take and pass the RBT certification exam
Apply for certification through the BACB
What is a RBT?
Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) play a vital role in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. Working under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), RBTs implement behavior intervention plans, collect data, and provide direct support to individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. They assist in skill acquisition programs, conduct functional assessments, and collaborate with treatment teams to ensure effective and consistent care
Registered Behavior Technicians FAQs
What is the process to become a RBT?
Complete a high school diploma or equivalent
Enroll in a 40-hour RBT training course approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)
Pass the RBT competency assessment
Take and pass the RBT certification exam
Apply for certification through the BACB
How can GBS help me become a RBT?
Graham Behavior Services can support your journey to becoming a Behavior Therapist by:
Offering tuition reimbursement for relevant education
Providing a 40-hour RBT course led by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Offering ongoing training, professional development opportunities, and quality supervision
Assisting with exam preparation and study resources
What's the difference between a Behavior Therapist and a RBT?
Certification: RBTs must complete specific training and certification through the BACB, while Behavior Therapists may not require formal certification
Supervision: RBTs work under close supervision of BCBAs, whereas Behavior Therapists may have more autonomy
Scope of Practice: RBTs focus primarily on implementing behavior intervention plans and data collection, while Behavior Therapists may have a broader range of responsibilities
Education: RBTs require a high school diploma and specific RBT training, whereas Behavior Therapists often hold a bachelor's degree in a related field
I'm a RBT who wants to become a Behavior Therapist. What does that process look like? ​
To transition from a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) to a Behavior Therapist, an individual typically needs to follow these steps:
Obtain a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as psychology, education, or behavior analysis. While RBTs only require a high school diploma, Behavior Therapists generally need at least a bachelor's degree.
Gain relevant work experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). The experience gained as an RBT can be valuable for this transition.
Consider pursuing additional certifications or specialized training in behavioral therapy techniques. This can enhance your skills and make you more competitive for Behavior Therapist positions.
Some positions may require or prefer a master's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field. Pursuing graduate education can open up more advanced opportunities.
Depending on the specific role and employer requirements, you may need to obtain professional certifications or licensure. This could involve completing additional coursework, supervised clinical experience, and passing certification exams.
By following these steps, an RBT can build upon their existing knowledge and experience to advance into a Behavior Therapist role, which typically offers more autonomy and a broader scope of responsibilities in implementing behavioral interventions
What is a Behavior Therapist?
Behavior Therapists play a crucial role in ABA therapy, working directly with individuals to implement behavior intervention plans and promote positive change. They conduct assessments, develop individualized treatment plans, and implement evidence-based strategies to address challenging behaviors and teach new skills. Behavior Therapists focus on improving communication, social skills, and daily living abilities for their clients, often working with individuals with autism spectrum disorders or other developmental disabilities.
Behavior Therapist FAQs
What is the process to become a BT?
- Obtain a bachelor's degree in psychology, education, or a related field
- Complete coursework in behavior analysis and ABA principles
- Gain practical experience through internships or volunteer work
- Consider obtaining RBT certification for enhanced credentials
- Apply for state licensure through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs
How can GBS help me become a Behavior Therapist?
Graham Behavior Services can support your journey to becoming a Behavior Therapist by:
Offering tuition reimbursement for relevant education
Providing a 40-hour RBT course led by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Offering ongoing training, professional development opportunities, and quality supervision
What's the difference between a Behavior Therapist and a RBT?
Certification: RBTs must complete specific training and certification through the BACB, while Behavior Therapists may not require formal certification
Supervision: RBTs work under close supervision of BCBAs, whereas Behavior Therapists may have more autonomy
Scope of Practice: RBTs focus primarily on implementing behavior intervention plans and data collection, while Behavior Therapists may have a broader range of responsibilities
Education: RBTs require a high school diploma and specific RBT training, whereas Behavior Therapists often hold a bachelor's degree in a related field
I'm a Behavior Therapist who wants to become a BCBA. What does that process look like?
To become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in New Jersey, a Behavior Therapist must follow these steps:
1. Earn a Master’s Degree
- Obtain a master’s degree in behavior analysis, psychology, education, or a related field from an accredited university. The program should be accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) or meet the coursework requirements outlined by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
2. Complete Graduate-Level Coursework
- Ensure your program includes the required 315 hours of coursework in areas such as ethics, behavior assessment, intervention strategies, and research methods.Â
3. Accumulate Supervised Fieldwork
- Complete between 1,500 and 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork under a qualified BCBA supervisor. This experience can be obtained through independent fieldwork or embedded practicum opportunities within your graduate program.
4. Pass the BCBA Examination
- Apply for the BCBA exam through the BACB and schedule it at a Pearson VUE testing center in New Jersey (e.g., Princeton, Piscataway, Lyndhurst). The exam evaluates knowledge in areas like behavior change procedures and ethics.
5. Obtain Licensure in New Jersey
- After earning your BCBA certification, apply for state licensure through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. This includes submitting proof of certification, transcripts, verification of supervised experience, and passing the State Board of Applied Behavior Analysts Examination.
6. Maintain Certification and Licensure
- Renew your BCBA certification every two years by completing at least 32 continuing education units (CEUs), including 4 focused on ethics. Similarly, renew your state license biennially.
By following these steps and meeting New Jersey-specific requirements, you can transition from a Behavior Therapist to a licensed BCBA, enabling you to practice independently and supervise others in the field of applied behavior analysis.
What is a BCBA?
Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) play a crucial role in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. They conduct comprehensive assessments, develop individualized behavior intervention plans, and oversee their implementation. BCBAs collaborate with clients, families, and other professionals to address challenging behaviors, promote skill acquisition, and improve overall quality of life for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities.
Board Certified Behavior Analyst FAQs
What is the process to become a BCBA?
- Earn a master's degree or higher in behavior analysis, psychology, education, or a related field from an accredited institution
- Complete required behavior-analytic coursework (315 hours) covering specific content areas
- Accumulate 1,500-2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork experience
- Pass the BCBA certification examination administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)
- Apply for state licensure through the New Jersey Board of Applied Behavior Analyst Examiners
How can GBS support me?
Graham Behavior Services supports aspiring BCBAs by offering:
Tuition reimbursement for relevant education
Supervised fieldwork hours to meet certification requirements
What's the difference between a BCBA and a Behavior Therapist?
Education:Â Behavior Therapists typically hold a bachelor's degree, while BCBAs require a master's degree or higher
Certification:Â BCBAs must pass a rigorous certification exam and maintain their credentials through continuing education
Responsibilities:Â BCBAs design and oversee treatment plans, conduct assessments, and supervise other professionals, while Behavior Therapists focus on direct implementation of interventions
Autonomy:Â BCBAs work independently and in supervisory roles, whereas Behavior Therapists often work under BCBA supervision
Why Work for Us
At GBS, we prioritize your growth as much as our clients’ progress. Joining our team means becoming part of a compassionate, collaborative community dedicated to excellence in behavioral therapy.
We offer:
Extensive, high-quality paid training and continuing education
Flexible scheduling to fit your lifestyle
Career advancement pathways from entry-level to BCBA leadership
Supportive mentorship and supervision
Comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, and retirement options
Opportunities to specialize and expand your skills
If you’re passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges and reach their full potential, we invite you to join us. Together, we make meaningful change possible—one client, one session, one success at a time.
Benefits Include:
- FT/PT Hours
- Flexible work schedule
- Monthly trainings (free CEs!)
- Mileage Reimbursement
- Tuition Assistance
- Health & Dental Benefits
- Work/Life Balance
