A behavior analyst specializes in managing problem behaviors in people of all ages. Behavior analysts practice applied behavior analysis (ABA) to help people improve behaviors involving communication, learning, eating, playing, sleeping, and other common activities. ABA therapists often work with people with developmental disorders, autism spectrum disorders, addictions, or a history of physical or sexual abuse or head trauma.
A behavior analyst typically:
Observes and analyzes the events and circumstances that appear to lead to the problem behaviors
Talks with a client as well as his or her family members, teachers, healthcare providers, therapists, and work supervisors about problem behaviors and what seems to cause or trigger them
Devises behavior improvement plans called behavior analysis interventions, which combine a series of techniques to help decrease problem behaviors and replace them with healthier, more productive behaviors
Consults with other members of the client’s care team, which may include a doctor, psychotherapist, neuropsychologist, physical therapist, speech-language pathologist, occupational therapist, and social worker
Evaluates behavior changes and the effectiveness of behavior improvement techniques
A behavior analyst may also be known by the following names: behavioral analyst, behavior consultant, board-certified behavior analyst, BCBA, or BCBA-D.
There are 1330 specialists practicing Behavior Analysis in Virginia with an overall average rating of 3.9 stars. There is 1 hospital in Virginia with affiliated Behavior Analysis specialists, including Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.
