A behavior analyst is a clinician with a masters or doctoral degree who evaluates, designs, and implements individualized protocols to improve skills. They focus on the evaluation of the relationship between a behavior and environmental factors, and apply techniques such as positive reinforcement to assist their clients in developing new behaviors, modifying existing behaviors, and exhibiting behaviors under specific conditions. Behavior analysts develop treatment plans based on clients’ individual needs, and ABA interventions require monitoring and continuous evaluation from session to session. They also play an essential role in educating others about the practice of behavior analysis, providing training to parents, teachers, caregivers, mental health counselors, and other professionals to help them understand and effectively manage behavior.

To become a behavior analyst, one must have specialized academic training, practical training, and pass a board certification exam to practice independently. Those with a bachelor’s degree in a health science can become a behavior analyst by earning a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis, Education, or Psychology. Upon graduating from the master’s program, prospective behavior analysts must acquire work experience through supervised clinical work in their area of concentration. The next, and sometimes final step, is to pass the national certification exam, which is required to qualify for board certification.