Behavior Therapist

As a Behavior Therapist at Cortica, your main responsibilities include providing direct implementation of behavior-analytic services to children with autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental differences. You’ll conduct therapy in 1:1 and group settings, applying positive behavior strategies developed with BCBAs. This role also requires assisting with individualized assessment procedures, fulfilling documentation and data collection requirements, and tailoring strategies according to each child’s assessment and treatment plan.

To qualify for the Behavior Therapist position at Cortica, a minimum of a High School Diploma or GED is required, while a bachelor’s degree in human services or a related field is preferred. Additionally, candidates should possess either a Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT) certification or be willing to obtain Board Certified Autism Technician (BCAT) credential through Cortica’s paid training program within the first 45 days of employment. Experience working with children is also essential.

Cortica offers comprehensive paid training for new Behavior Therapists, including an excellent onboarding experience that covers the essential skills needed for the role. Participants will receive a thorough review of ABA practices and techniques to ensure they are well-prepared to implement effective behavior-analytic services. Additionally, continuous education opportunities are available to help employees advance their careers in the field.

Cortica is dedicated to the professional growth of its Behavior Therapists by offering various advancement pathways, including opportunities to progress to roles such as a Substitute Behavioral Interventionist or to participate in internal job boards. Moreover, Cortica provides continuing education reimbursement and training resources through an online learning system to facilitate ongoing development and mastery in the field.

The work environment for Behavior Therapists at Cortica is supportive and inclusive. Team members collaborate with multidisciplinary professionals, including BCBAs, behavioral specialists, and other therapists. Monthly team-building events foster camaraderie, and a culture that celebrates diversity ensures that everyone’s ideas and contributions are valued. This dynamic atmosphere empowers therapists to perform their best while making a significant difference in the lives of children and families.

To effectively implement behavior-analytic services, I would first review the child's assessment and treatment plan in collaboration with the supervising BCBA. Then, I would design interventions using positive reinforcement strategies tailored to the child's unique needs. It’s important to document progress rigorously and adjust techniques based on the child's response to ensure optimal outcomes.

Handling challenging behaviors requires patience and a strategic approach. I would first try to understand the function of the behavior by observing and collecting data. My goal is to redirect the child positively while implementing strategies such as antecedent modifications to prevent the behavior from occurring. If the behavior persists, I would consult with my BCBA supervisor to develop a more tailored intervention.

To engage children, I typically incorporate play-based activities that align with their interests. Utilizing interactive games, crafts, or role-playing ensures that therapy feels fun and relatable to them. Additionally, building rapport through open communication and consistent positive reinforcement makes a significant difference in their willingness to participate.

Teamwork is essential in my role. Collaborating with BCBAs, other therapists, and support staff ensures we provide comprehensive services to each child. I prioritize open communication to discuss progress, share insights, and devise strategies collectively, which ultimately enhances the quality of care provided to the families.

When creating an individualized treatment plan, I consider the child's unique strengths, preferences, and specific challenges. Collaborating with the BCBA, I would evaluate data from assessments to outline clear, measurable goals and select appropriate interventions. It’s also important to involve the child’s family to ensure the plan aligns with their values and daily routines.

I have experience working with children in diverse environments, including their homes, schools, and community spaces. Each setting presents unique challenges and opportunities for engagement. I adapt my strategies to suit the context, ensuring that the therapy resonates with the child’s familiar surroundings while maintaining consistency in the approaches used.

Staying current in ABA practices involves regular participation in professional development opportunities, such as workshops, webinars, and local conferences. I also follow reputable journals and online communities dedicated to behavior analysis. This continual learning ensures that I apply evidence-based strategies, ultimately benefiting the children I work with.

Data collection is a critical component of my role as a Behavior Therapist. It allows me to monitor the child's progress, evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, and make informed decisions regarding treatment adjustments. Accurate documentation ensures transparency and is vital for discussing progress with families and consulting with the supervising BCBA.

One successful intervention I implemented involved a child with difficulty transitioning between activities. I introduced a visual schedule and provided consistent prompts. After a few weeks of data collection showing marked improvement, we celebrated the child’s progress during a session, which reinforced their achievements and encouraged continued success in transitions.

Building rapport involves establishing trust and open communication. I prioritize getting to know the child’s interests and involving families in the therapeutic process. Engaging families by sharing insights and progress helps them feel included, which ultimately strengthens the support network for the child and fosters a positive treatment experience.