1. Obtain a bachelor's degree in psychology, education, or a related field
2. Complete coursework in behavior analysis and ABA principles
3. Gain practical experience through internships or volunteer work
4. Consider obtaining RBT certification for enhanced credentials
5. Apply for state licensure through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs

A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)  involves implementing ABA interventions, there are key differences between an RBT and Behavior Therapist:

• Education: Behavior Therapists typically hold a bachelor's degree, while RBTs require a high school diploma and specific RBT training

• Certification: RBTs must complete a certification process through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, while Behavior Therapists may not require specific certification

• Supervision: RBTs work under close supervision of BCBAs, whereas Behavior Therapists may have more autonomy in their practice

• Scope: Behavior Therapists may have a broader scope of practice, while RBTs focus primarily on implementing behavior reduction and skill acquisition procedures

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

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. 

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.