Meet Your ABA Team

Building strong relationships with your ABA team creates the foundation for your child's success. Understanding each team member's role, expertise, and responsibilities helps you communicate effectively and advocate for your child's needs. 

The Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) leads your child's clinical team. They hold a master's degree, completed supervised fieldwork, and passed a national certification exam. Your BCBA conducts assessments, develops treatment plans, trains staff, analyzes data, and adjusts interventions. They're your primary contact for clinical questions and concerns about progress. 

Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) provide most direct therapy. These paraprofessionals complete specialized training and pass a competency assessment under BCBA supervision. RBTs implement the treatment plan during sessions, collect data, and often become beloved figures in your child's life. Their consistent presence allows them to notice subtle changes and celebrate daily victories. 

Some teams include Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBAs) who support the BCBA with assessments, program development, and supervision. Behavior technicians without RBT certification might also provide services while working toward credentials. Regardless of titles, all team members should receive ongoing supervision and training. 

Building effective partnerships with your team starts with open communication. Share relevant information about your child's health, sleep, or family changes that might affect therapy. If something isn't working, speak up early rather than waiting for scheduled meetings. Your observations from home provide crucial context for clinical decisions. 

Ask your team questions freely. What are they working on today? Why did they choose this approach? How can you support goals at home? Good therapists welcome parent involvement and explain their methods clearly. If you don't understand something, keep asking until you do. 

Establish communication preferences early. Do you prefer texts, emails, or communication apps? How often do you want updates? What constitutes an emergency contact? Clear expectations prevent misunderstandings and ensure important information reaches you promptly. 

Remember that your team members are human too. They're working hard to help your child while managing multiple cases. Expressing appreciation for progress, being flexible with scheduling when possible, and maintaining professional boundaries helps sustain positive relationships. At the same time, don't hesitate to advocate when your child's needs aren't being met. 

Action Steps You Can Take: 

• Schedule introduction meetings with each team member 

• Create a contact list with roles and preferred communication methods 

• Establish regular check-in times with your BCBA 

• Prepare questions for your team about their experience and approach 

Common Questions: 

• How often should I see the BCBA? Typically, 10-20% of treatment hours, but this varies by need. 

• What if I have concerns about a team member? Address minor issues directly; bring significant concerns to the BCBA or clinical director. 

• Can I request specific therapists? Most agencies try to accommodate preferences while balancing scheduling needs. 

Resources for Deeper Learning: 

• BACB.com to verify credentials and understand certification requirements 

• Questions to ask when interviewing potential providers 

• Parent rights documents from your state's developmental disability agency 

Reach out to our team today to get your ABA process started.