So You Wanna Wrangle Behaviors in Washington? A Guide to Becoming a BCBA in the Evergreen State
Ah, the allure of the BCBA! You see yourself as a superhero of behavior, weaving a magical web of interventions to turn tantrums into tranquility and meltdowns into masterful maneuvers. But before you whip out your cape (or comfy work clothes, because capes are impractical), let's navigate the path to becoming a BCBA in Washington state.
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| How To Become A Bcba In Washington State |
Step 1: Master the Knowledge, Not the Force (Although That Would Be Cool Too)
First things first, you'll need a master's degree in behavior analysis, education, or psychology with a focus on applied behavior analysis (ABA). Think of it as your decoder ring for the fascinating world of human behavior.
Pro-tip: Look for programs with a Verified Course Sequence (VCS). These programs are basically pre-approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), saving you the hassle of jumping through curricular hoops.
Step 2: Experience is Your Wingman (or Wingwoman)
Knowledge is power, but experience is your sidekick. You'll need to clock a minimum of 1,500 hours of supervised experience under the watchful eye of a BCBA. This is where you put your classroom knowledge into action, crafting interventions and witnessing the power of ABA firsthand.
Don't sweat it: Many graduate programs incorporate supervised experience into their curriculum, so you might be halfway there before you even know it!
QuickTip: Pause when something feels important.
Step 3: Conquering the BCBA Exam - It's Not About Who's Stronger, It's About Who's Smarter
Once you've mastered the knowledge and gained experience, it's time to face the BCBA exam. This mighty test will assess your understanding of ABA principles, your ability to design interventions, and your ethical compass.
Remember: The BACB offers plenty of resources to help you prepare, so don't go in there empty-handed (or empty-headed).
Step 4: Licensing Up in Washington
Congratulations, you've conquered the BCBA exam! Now, to practice in Washington, you'll need to obtain a license from the Washington State Department of Health (DOH). This involves submitting your BCBA certification, proof of education and experience, and passing a background check. It's basically the official stamp of approval saying you're a BCBA extraordinaire in the Evergreen State.
Bonus Round: Washington Specifics
Tip: Bookmark this post to revisit later.
The good news is, the requirements to become a BCBA in Washington are pretty much in line with the national standards set by the BACB. So, you won't have to jump through any extra hoops (besides the metaphorical ones you'll conquer on your journey).
BCBA in Washington FAQ
How to find BCBA programs in Washington?
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A simple web search for "BCBA programs Washington" should do the trick. You can also check the BACB website for a list of approved programs.
How long does it take to become a BCBA in Washington?
Tip: Check back if you skimmed too fast.
It typically takes 2-3 years to complete a master's program and gain the required experience hours. So, factor in studying for the BCBA exam and getting licensed, and you're looking at roughly 3-4 years.
Can I get financial aid for a BCBA program?
Yes, you might be eligible for federal financial aid and scholarships. Contact your program's financial aid office for more information.
Do I need to continue learning after becoming a BCBA?
Tip: Avoid distractions — stay in the post.
Yes! To maintain your BCBA certification, you'll need to complete continuing education (CE) credits every few years.
What jobs can I get with a BCBA certification in Washington?
BCBAs can work in a variety of settings, including schools, clinics, homes, and more. They can work with children with autism, individuals with developmental disabilities, and even people struggling with everyday behaviors.
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