Navigating the ABA Job Market: Essential Questions to Ask When Choosing a Team

Are you considering a career in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) but feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of job opportunities available? Choosing the right ABA company to work for is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your career trajectory and professional satisfaction. To help you make an informed choice, we've compiled a list of essential questions to ask potential employers, focusing on key aspects such as company culture, training, and commitment to evidence-based practices like SBT/PFA (Skill-Based Treatment/Practical Functional Assessment) and trauma-informed care.

  1. Can you tell me more about your company's approach to ABA and its core values? 🌟
    Understanding a company's mission and values is essential in determining if its culture aligns with your professional goals and values.

  2. What training and supervision opportunities do you provide for new team members? 📚
    Adequate training and supervision are crucial for the professional growth and development of ABA practitioners. Inquire about the company's training protocols and opportunities for ongoing supervision and support.

  3. How much supervision would a Behavior Technician (BT) receive? 🧐
    Understanding the level of supervision provided to Behavior Technicians is crucial for ensuring quality care for clients and support for team members. Inquire about the frequency and intensity of supervision, such as whether BTs receive regular supervision sessions, the duration of each session, and the ratio of direct supervision to indirect supervision. Clear communication about supervision expectations helps maintain consistency and promotes professional growth among BTs.

  4. Does your company prioritize evidence-based practices such as SBT/PFA? 🧠
    Evidence-based practices are the foundation of effective ABA interventions. Ask about the company's commitment to implementing evidence-based techniques like Skill-Based Treatment and Practical Functional Assessment in their programs.

  5. How does your company incorporate trauma-informed care principles into your ABA services? 💙
    Trauma-informed care recognizes the impact of trauma on individuals' lives and emphasizes safety, trust, and empowerment in the therapeutic process. Inquire about how the company integrates trauma-informed care principles into their ABA services and supports clients with diverse needs.

  6. What opportunities are available for career advancement within your company? 🚀
    Career advancement opportunities are essential for long-term career satisfaction and growth. Ask about opportunities for advancement, such as leadership roles, specialized training, or mentorship programs.

  7. Can you provide information about the caseload expectations for team members? ⏳
    Understanding caseload expectations is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and providing quality services to clients. Inquire about the average caseload size and any support systems in place for managing workload.

  8. How does your company support ongoing professional development for team members? 📈
    Continuous learning and professional development are essential for staying up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in ABA. Ask about the company's support for ongoing training, continuing education, and professional certifications.

  9. Who are the leadership team members (BCBAs)? Are they local? How involved? 🏠
    One trend in the ABA field is to have BCBA supervisors who are out of state. Knowing the local leadership team members and their level of involvement can give insight into the company's organizational structure and commitment to hands-on management. Local leadership often signifies a closer connection to the community and a more personalized approach to supporting clients and team members.

  10. Who are the owners? 💖
    Discovering more about the owners can unveil their level of commitment to the learners and team members. Understanding their passion and empathy towards clients and employees can provide reassurance about the company's dedication to fostering a supportive and caring environment for all involved.

As you navigate the interview process, consider asking yourself these hidden questions:

  • How do they refer to team members?

  • How do they treat you during the interview process?

  • Do they value your input and questions?

  • What is the overall atmosphere and vibe of the workplace during the interview?

  • How transparent are they about company policies, expectations, and challenges?

  • Do they seem genuinely interested in your professional growth and development?

  • What are the non-verbal cues from interviewers? Are they engaged and enthusiastic about discussing the company and role?

By asking these essential questions and considering your own observations and experiences, you can gain valuable insights into a potential employer's values, practices, and commitment to supporting your professional growth and development in the field of ABA. Remember, choosing the right company is the first step towards building a successful and fulfilling career in Applied Behavior Analysis.