If you’re passionate about supporting students with special needs, a position as an ABA Therapist could be the ideal job for you. An ABA Therapist is a professional who works directly with children and adolescents in educational settings to apply the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA). By following treatment plans designed by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), ABA Therapists help students build communication, social, and academic skills while reducing challenging behaviors.
For those interested in making a meaningful difference in schools, this role is both rewarding and in high demand.
What Does an ABA Therapist Do?
The role of an ABA Therapist is hands-on and student-centered. In school settings, they play a vital part in helping children achieve both behavioral and academic milestones. While they work under the supervision of a BCBA, ABA Therapists are the ones providing daily support to students.
Some of the most common responsibilities include:
- Implementing behavior intervention and skill-building plans designed by a BCBA
- Supporting students with communication, social, and academic skills in the classroom
- Collecting and recording data during sessions to track student progress
- Assisting with behavior management strategies
- Collaborating with teachers, special education staff, and families to support student goals
- Maintaining professionalism and adhering to ethical standards in ABA practice
How to Become an ABA Therapist
If you’re exploring how to become an ABA Therapist, you’ll find that the path is easier than you might expect. Most school-based roles require a background in psychology, education, or a related field, and training in ABA practices. Here are the main steps:
Education Requirements
- A high school diploma is often the minimum requirement, though many employers prefer candidates with some college coursework or a degree in psychology, education, or a related field.
Training and Experience
- Complete specialized ABA training, often provided by your employer or through a certification program.
- Gain hands-on experience working with children, ideally in educational or behavioral health settings.
Certification Options
- While not always required, some ABA Therapists pursue Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) to enhance their skills and job opportunities.
How to Become ABA Certified
For ABA Therapists who want to stand out, pursuing RBT certification is the most common path. This involves:
- Completing a 40-hour training program in applied behavior analysis
- Passing a competency assessment overseen by a BCBA
- Applying for and passing the official RBT certification exam
- Maintaining certification through supervision and renewals
This step isn’t mandatory for every school-based ABA Therapist role, but can provide a competitive edge in the job market.
How Long Does it Take to Become an ABA Therapist?
The timeline depends on whether you pursue certification. Many people can qualify for school-based ABA Therapist roles in just a few weeks by completing training provided by their employer. For those seeking RBT certification, the process is still relatively quick compared to advanced ABA credentials:
- Training program: 1–2 weeks (40 hours total)
- Competency assessment: 1–2 weeks
- Application and exam approval: a few weeks
In total, it usually takes one to three months to become certified, though you may be able to start working as an ABA Therapist even sooner.
Explore ABA Therapist Jobs with Sunbelt Staffing
At Sunbelt Staffing, we specialize in connecting ABA Therapists with meaningful roles in school settings across the country. In these positions, you’ll work side by side with teachers, special education teams, and BCBAs to help students achieve both academic and behavioral success. Whether you’re just starting your career in ABA or looking to grow your experience in education, Sunbelt Staffing has a wide range of school-based ABA Therapist jobs available. Explore our current openings today and take the next step toward a rewarding career supporting students in the classroom.