Play-Based Therapist

As a Play-Based Therapist at Cortica, your primary responsibilities include providing direct implementation of behavior-analytic services to children with autism and other neurodevelopmental differences. You’ll work with children in various settings, such as home or school, using play-based strategies developed in collaboration with a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Your role will involve implementing positive behavior strategies, conducting assessments, and documenting children's progress meticulously.

To join Cortica as a Play-Based Therapist, you should have a High School Diploma or GED. A bachelor's degree in human services or a related field is preferred. You should possess a valid driver’s license and be located within the Marlborough, MA area. Experience working with children is vital, and candidates should be willing to obtain the BCAT credential through Cortica's training program within the first 45 days of employment.

Cortica provides extensive training and support for Play-Based Therapists, including paid training and a comprehensive onboarding experience. Therapists will receive continuous professional development opportunities through an online learning system, ensuring you are well-equipped with the latest methods in ABA therapy. Additionally, you will have access to a supportive team, including lead Behavioral Interventionists and supervisors who are dedicated to your growth.

At Cortica, the pay range for a Play-Based Therapist starts at $22.80 and can go up to $30.59 per hour, depending on your relevant experience, education, and location. This position also entails additional indirect pay benefits and reimbursement options that contribute to competitive compensation overall.

Cortica fosters an environment of growth and opportunity. As a Play-Based Therapist, you will have access to internal career pathways that facilitate advancements in your professional journey, such as pursuing your BCBA certification or transitioning into other specialties within behavioral health. Cortica values your ambition and is dedicated to providing the resources and support needed for you to excel.

When answering this question, offer specific examples of your past roles, such as being a camp counselor or an ABA therapist. Highlight your approach to building rapport with children and detail particular instances where you successfully implemented therapeutic strategies.

Discuss the principles of play-based therapy, emphasizing the value of engaging children in play to facilitate learning and communication. Provide examples of how play can make therapy sessions more interactive and enjoyable while promoting social skills and emotional development.

Share a structured strategy for addressing challenging behaviors, such as identifying underlying triggers and implementing positive reinforcement techniques. Illustrate your ability to adapt and remain calm in challenging situations, ensuring to provide specific scenarios where you successfully managed such behaviors.

Reflect on the pivotal role of therapists in supporting children's development through tailored interventions. Emphasize the importance of collaboration with families and other professionals, showcasing your understanding of the comprehensive approach needed for effective therapy.

Outline your methods for staying organized, such as using specific tools or systems for documentation. Explain how you prioritize note-taking during sessions and ensure that all required data and observations are recorded accurately to track the child's progress.

Highlight techniques that you employ to connect with both children and their families. Discuss the importance of creating a comfortable and trusting environment, such as using humor, active listening, and engaging in shared interests to foster a positive therapeutic relationship.

Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of data in ABA therapy by describing your experience with tracking progress. Explain specific data collection methods you have used and how they contribute to the ongoing development of intervention plans.

Discuss your alignment with Cortica’s mission and values, emphasizing your passion for making a difference in children's lives. Highlight your interest in joining a company that nurtures diversity and collaboration as essential components of treatment.

Share personal insights into what you find fulfilling about the field of behavioral therapy, such as witnessing a child's growth and progress. Reflect on how the impact of your work reinforces your commitment to the profession.

Explain your perspective on teamwork in therapy environments. Highlight the importance of communication, collaboration, and respect for each discipline's expertise while discussing any past experiences working within a multidisciplinary setup.