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Redefining Career Growth in ABA: Pathways Beyond Management

Jan 20

3 min read

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"I want to be a better clinician, but for me, the goal is not to become a Clinical Director or Regional Director. My focus is to become the best BCBA I can.”


This comment, shared by a fellow BCBA, hit home. I understand how one would interpret this. It rings true for most practitioners in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) – a wish to flourish in the profession but away from managerial positions. The professional advancement seems like an elevation towards an industry far removed from the primary interest of direct client contact and enhanced clinical practice for many.


What if, though, growth in ABA could be achieved without shifting focus from conducting clinical work?


The Problem: Limited Career Pathways in ABA


According to the traditional ABA career model, growth often involves getting into higher


ranks, like moving into the Clinical Director or Regional Director roles. These positions are certainly crucial, yet not all want it. A good number of BCBAs appreciate the clinician work and would rather dedicate themselves to improving their skills than deal with people management and other admin duties.


Sadly, this may be the case for these practitioners; the choices seem to be lacking. Remaining divided along clinical lines may also mean lacking advancement opportunities, recognition, and even compensation. Gaps like these will create the feeling in many clinicians that they are caught in a rut or not being given proper credit for their work.


The Solution: Growth Without Management


At Celeration ABA, we like to think outside the box when it comes to career growth in the field of ABA. We aim to create opportunities that acknowledge and assist practitioners who wish to advance while avoiding management responsibilities. Here’s how we’re doing it:


1️⃣ Ongoing Training and Mentorship: We provide opportunities for BCBAs to deepen their skills through advanced training, certifications, and mentoring programs. Growth shouldn’t stop at initial certification—it’s a continuous journey.


2️⃣ Specialized Certifications: We encourage clinicians to pursue areas of specialization that align with their interests and strengths. Whether it’s Precision Teaching, early intervention, or working with specific populations, we provide resources to help BCBAs become experts in their chosen fields.


3️⃣ Recognition and Compensation: Advancing as a clinician should come with real rewards. We ensure that professional growth is recognized and compensated, making it clear that clinical mastery is as valuable as management expertise.


Relevance to ABA


This change is more than just assisting clinicians - it's about improving the level of care provided to clients. When BCBAs are given a platform to flourish in ways that they best relate to, they dedicate themselves more and work better, Hence, gets more done. This leads to better results for the clients and families they care for.


Takeaways: Rethinking Career Growth in ABA


  • Career growth in ABA doesn’t have to mean stepping away from clinical work.

  • Pathways like advanced training, specialization, and mentorship provide meaningful ways to grow as a practitioner.

  • Recognition and compensation for clinical expertise are essential to keeping passionate BCBAs in client-facing roles.


To Conclude 


Let’s redefine the scope of ABA careers aspirations can be achieved. Growth is not a one-size-fits all and every BCBA must have an opportunity to pursue what makes them happy.


What do you imagine about career progress in ABA? Put your thoughts in the comments or get in touch to see how we are creating opportunities for clinicians in a different way!



Jan 20

3 min read

0

10

0

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