Association of Professional Behavior Analysts

Association of Professional Behavior Analysts
Name	Association of Professional Behavior Analysts
Founded	2008
Location	United States
Focus	Applied behavior analysis
Key people	Gina Green, James E. Carr
Website	https://www.apbahome.net/

Association of Professional Behavior Analysts. The Association of Professional Behavior Analysts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to representing the professional and practice interests of individuals credentialed in applied behavior analysis. Founded in 2008, it serves as a central voice for practitioners, advocating for the profession, supporting ethical practice, and promoting the growth of the field. Its membership primarily consists of Board Certified Behavior Analysts and other professionals working within the science of behavior.

History and formation

The organization was established in 2008 by a group of prominent behavior analysts, including Gina Green and James E. Carr, in response to the rapid growth of the profession and the need for a dedicated entity to address practice issues. Its formation coincided with the increasing recognition of applied behavior analysis as an evidence-based treatment for autism spectrum disorder and other conditions. The creation of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board in 1998 had established a credentialing system, creating a new class of professionals requiring representation. Early efforts were focused on defining the organization's role alongside existing groups like the Association for Behavior Analysis International.

Mission and objectives

The primary mission is to advance and promote the professional practice of applied behavior analysis. Key objectives include advocating for legislation and regulations that support the profession, protecting the rights of practitioners and consumers, and disseminating information about professional standards. It aims to support the interests of credentialed professionals working in diverse settings such as schools, hospitals, and private clinics. A central goal is to ensure the ethical and effective application of behavioral services across the United States and internationally.

Organizational structure

The association is governed by an elected Board of Directors composed of professionals holding credentials from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Day-to-day operations are managed by an executive director and supported by various committees focusing on areas like public policy, ethics, and membership. It maintains a headquarters office and operates as a 501(c)(6) organization under the Internal Revenue Service code. The structure is designed to be responsive to its membership, which is organized into state chapters to address local and regional issues.

Activities and advocacy

A major activity involves legislative and regulatory advocacy at both the state and federal levels, often working to secure licensure for behavior analysts and influence policies related to Medicaid and insurance coverage. The organization frequently submits comments to agencies like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and collaborates with other groups such as the Council of Autism Service Providers. It also engages in public awareness campaigns to educate policymakers and the public about applied behavior analysis. Additional activities include providing professional development webinars and maintaining a resource center for members.

Credentialing and professional standards

While the Behavior Analyst Certification Board is the independent credentialing body, the association actively promotes adherence to its credentials, including the Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst designations. It advocates for state licensure laws that recognize these credentials as the standard for practice. The organization also emphasizes the importance of the Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts and provides guidance on its implementation. It works to distinguish qualified practitioners from those without proper training in the field.

Publications and resources

The association produces a variety of resources for its members and the public, including regular newsletters, white papers on practice issues, and model legislation for state licensure. It maintains an online resource library with documents on topics ranging from insurance billing to ethical practice. While it does not publish a peer-reviewed journal, it disseminates critical updates through its website and communications, often referencing research from publications like the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis. These materials are designed to support practitioners in navigating the professional landscape and adhering to best practices.

Category:Applied behavior analysis Category:Professional associations based in the United States Category:Organizations established in 2008