How LEARN Enhances BCBA Exam Prep with ABA Technologies

Updated On July 29, 2025

Clinically Reviewed By: Hanna Rue, Ph.D., BCBA-D, Chief Clinical Officer

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If you are pursuing psychology, education, sociology, or behavior analysis, you might be considering becoming a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA). A significant milestone on that path is passing the BCBA exam. At LEARN Behavioral, we understand how challenging this can feel and are here to support and empower you through every step. That’s why we partner with the ABA Technologies BOOST program (BOOST), a research-based online study tool. BOOST helps LEARN team members feel confident, informed, and supported while studying for the BCBA exam.

Our partnership with BOOST gives employees access to high-quality BCBA exam prep resources. These tools help build a strong foundation of knowledge and practical skills so employees can feel prepared and ready for success. In this blog, we break down how BOOST works and how it supports our team members preparing for a career in behavior analysis.

Understanding the BCBA Exam Structure

If you are new to the BCBA exam, it helps to know what you are preparing for. The test includes 175 multiple-choice questions that cover essential areas like behavior assessment, teaching and intervention strategies, and professional ethics. Understanding these topics is key to building a smart, focused study plan.

Success on the exam requires more than just memorizing facts. Candidates must also be able to apply what they learn in real-life situations. That includes designing behavior support plans, interpreting assessment data, and critically analyzing ethical dilemmas. These skills are essential for any BCBA role and are tested on the exam.

Whether you are finishing a degree or acquiring practicum hours, it is vital to use a strategic approach to studying. LEARN’s partnership with BOOST gives team members access to structured, easy-to-use tools that support learning and confidence-building throughout the study process.

Overview of the ABA Technologies BOOST Program

The ABA Technologies BOOST program is an online platform for people studying for the BCBA exam. BOOST includes helpful resources like interactive lessons, practice exams, and real-time feedback. The platform also includes videos, quizzes, and case studies, making the learning experience more engaging and effective.

What makes BOOST stand out is that it focuses not only on passing the exam but also on preparing you for the work you will do as a BCBA. The study modules are built to match the exam content and give practical examples of how to apply concepts in real-world settings.

Many people who use BOOST share success stories about how the platform helped them feel more prepared. These stories highlight BOOST’s ability to make tough topics easier to understand and build confidence that helps people succeed.

“I really enjoyed BOOST. It had a great combination of exactly what I needed, like mock questions and SAFMEDS. I even loved the podcasts, as they were perfect for listening to while driving and cooking.” Grace R., Behavior Analyst I

For LEARN Behavioral employees, access to BOOST is free. This program usually costs $225, but we cover that expense to support your professional growth.

Effective Study Strategies with BOOST

Preparing for the BCBA exam can feel overwhelming, especially if you are balancing work, school, or other responsibilities. BOOST helps reduce that pressure by offering flexible study tools that you can adjust to fit your needs. For example, it includes study plans you can personalize based on your schedule and goals.

Whether you are just getting started or are in the final stretch of studying, BOOST helps you build a study routine that works. Tools like quizzes and real-life case examples help bring the material to life, making it easier to understand and remember key concepts.

Time management is also a big part of doing well on the exam. BOOST includes tips on how to break study time into shorter, more focused sessions, which can help you stay energized and avoid burnout. By setting clear, manageable goals for each study session, you can track your progress and stay motivated.

Leveraging Practice Exams for Success

Practice exams are one of the most important parts of BCBA exam prep. These mock exams mimic the real test experience, allowing you to get comfortable with the format and pace of the actual exam. Taking practice tests can also help reduce test-day anxiety.

LEARN includes access to high-quality practice exams through BOOST. These tests are designed to match the content and structure of the real BCBA exam, so you know exactly what to expect.

After each practice exam, BOOST gives you feedback that helps you see where you are doing well and where you might need more review. This kind of feedback allows you to focus your energy where it counts. Over time, it helps build both knowledge and confidence.

Additional Resources for BCBA Exam Preparation

Preparing for the BCBA exam takes time and effort, but BOOST offers a wide range of resources to help you succeed. In addition to study guides and practice exams, you can access video lectures and interactive modules that explain complex topics in simple, clear language.

BOOST also includes access to online forums and study communities where candidates can share tips, ask questions, and stay connected. This sense of community can be especially helpful for people who learn best by talking things through or working in groups.

The BOOST platform is updated regularly to keep pace with the latest information in applied behavior analysis (ABA). That means you will learn the most up-to-date strategies, research, and best practices throughout your prep journey.

As a LEARN team member, you have access to these valuable resources at no cost. It is part of our commitment to helping you not just pass the BCBA exam but also thrive in your career as a behavior analyst.

By using BOOST and the support available at LEARN, you are not only preparing for an exam. You are also building the skills, confidence, and knowledge you need to make a lasting difference in people’s lives.

To learn more about becoming a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) with LEARN, visit our Advance Your Career page.

ABA Technologies, Inc. is a pioneering leader in applied behavior analysis education and certification support. Founded by Dr. Jose Martinez‑Diaz, Ph.D., BCBA‑D, ABA Technologies offers a comprehensive suite of services including RBT® training, BCBA® continuing education, hands-on professional development, and their renowned BOOST exam-prep programs to empower behavior analysts at every stage of their career.

LEARN About the ABA Therapy Career Path at LEARN Behavioral

Updated On May 13, 2025

If you’re just starting out as a Behavior Technician or have arrived with experience and are ready to take on more, we have the tools to help you get there. Growth is a journey and we want to support you and your career in whatever direction you decide. With LEARN, you’ll receive the training and experience to build the resilience needed to pave your pathway to excellence.

BCaBA vs BCBA: What’s the Difference Between a BCaBA and a BCBA?

Updated On April 25, 2025

When pursuing a career in autism therapy, it’s essential to understand the qualifications and roles of professionals in the field.

Two key titles you will encounter are known as board certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) and board certified assistant behavior analysts (BCaBAs). Though they sound similar, they have distinct differences.

The main difference between the BCaBA vs BCBA titles is the level of education and supervision required for each. Let’s explore more about each role.

BCaBA vs BCBA Requirements: What Level of Education Do I Need?

The titles “BCaBA” and “BCBA” are the two main certifications in the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy. That may sound like a lot of alphabet soup, but let’s break it down:

A BCaBA requires a bachelor’s degree, while a BCBA requires both a bachelor’s and master’s degree.

The roles also require a different level of supervision.

A BCaBA can’t practice without supervision from a BCBA or BCBA-D (doctoral-level BCBA). A BCBA can practice independently and supervise others.

What Does the Coursework Include?

There is a difference between BCBA and BCaBA coursework required. To become a BCBA, coursework covers ABA therapy for autism, ethics, measurement, experimental design, and behavior assessment. Additionally, candidates must complete supervised fieldwork and pass the BCBA exam.

For BCaBA certification, a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in behavior analysis, education, or a related field is required. Like the BCBA, candidates need coursework in ABA, ethics, measurement, experimental design, and behavior assessment. They also need to complete supervised fieldwork and pass the BCaBA exam.

Both certifications require continuing education to stay up to date with the latest advancements in the field.

BCBA vs BCaBA: What Do They Do?

BCaBAs and BCBAs both work with people who have developmental disabilities, such as autism, to help them change their behavior and lead more fulfilling lives.

These professionals use scientific approaches such as ABA therapy. They work in a variety of settings, including schools, homes, learning centers, and the community.

BCaBAs and BCBAs conduct assessments, develop individualized treatment plans, and work with families who have kids on the autism spectrum.

How Much Autonomy Does a BCBA vs BCaBA Have?

Supervision requirements and levels of autonomy differ between BCaBAs and BCBAs. BCBA candidates need a minimum of 1,500 hours of supervised experience, including at least 75 hours of face-to-face supervision from a qualified BCBA. BCaBA candidates require 1,000 hours of supervised experience, with at least 50 hours of face-to-face supervision.

One difference between a BCaBA and BCBA is that BCBAs generally have more autonomy, conducting assessments, developing behavior plans, and directly supervising others. BCaBAs, while crucial in treatment, work under a BCBA’s guidance, using behavior plans and collecting data. Together, they use evidence-based interventions tailored to each person’s needs.

What Kinds of Career Opportunities Are Available for a BCBA vs BCaBA?

Career prospects for BCBAs and BCaBAs are promising, driven by the growing demand for autism therapies. BCBAs can work in schools, clinics, and private practices, often holding supervisory roles and conducting assessments.

Both roles offer advancement opportunities. BCBAs can pursue advanced certifications like BCBA-D, leading to higher-level positions and research opportunities. BCaBAs can gain experience, pursue higher education, and take on more responsibilities, such as supervising other BCaBAs.

Specializations within behavior analysis — such as early intervention or verbal behavior — allow professionals to focus their expertise and advance their careers. Staying informed and pursuing ongoing professional development can lead to successful and fulfilling careers in autism therapies.

BCaBA Salary vs BCBA Salary: What’s the Difference?

Across the country, BCBA salaries typically range from $55,000 to $85,000 per year, influenced by experience, location, and work setting. BCaBAs earn between $35,000 and $55,000 per year, with similar influencing factors.

Geographic location, level of experience, specialization, and work setting all affect BCBA vs BCaBA salary levels. BCBAs and BCaBAs working in educational institutions or private clinics may earn higher salaries compared to those in nonprofit organizations.

While BCaBAs earn lower salaries, they play a crucial role in providing behavior analysis services under BCBA supervision. Ultimately, career goals, desired responsibility level, and commitment to professional development should guide the choice between these positions.

BCBA or BCaBA: How Do You Choose the Right Career Path?

If you’re seeking a career in autism therapy, both roles are crucial positions. You can start at one level and work your way up through education and experience. It’s common for people to earn an assistant certification before working toward becoming a BCBA.

Many BCBAs first earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology, education, or ABA, then pursue a master’s degree in ABA or a related field. The job growth rate for BCBAs is projected to be 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than average for psychologists.

To learn more about BCBA or BCaBA job opportunities available at LEARN, visit our careers page .

RBT vs BCBA: What’s the Difference Between a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)?

Updated On April 25, 2025

When it comes to careers in the field of autism therapies, understanding the distinct roles of the professionals involved is crucial.

Two key positions in this field are registered behavior technicians (RBTs) and board certified behavior analysts (BCBAs). While both play essential roles in delivering effective therapy, they differ significantly in their responsibilities and qualifications. Learn about RBT vs BCBA salaries, roles, and more below.

Understanding the Role of a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)

The role of an RBT is an entry-level position in the field of autism therapy. RBTs provide direct therapy to people with autism under the supervision of a BCBA.

To become an RBT, you must complete a 40-hour RBT certification, meaning a training program covering essential topics such as behavior management, data collection, and ethics. You must also pass a competency assessment and undergo a background check. At LEARN, we provide thorough behavior technician training and ongoing support for all BTs and RBTs.

RBTs work with behavior intervention plans, collect data on client progress, and keep clients safe during therapy sessions. They play a vital role in teaching and reinforcing new skills, promoting independence, and reducing behaviors that interfere with growth and learning. RBTs work closely with BCBAs, following their guidance and reporting progress and challenges observed during therapy sessions.

Exploring the Role of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

A BCBA is a highly trained professional who specializes in assessing, designing, and using behavior intervention programs for people on the autism spectrum.

To become a BCBA, you must hold a master’s degree in behavior analysis or a related field such as psychology or education. Additionally, you must complete a defined number of supervised fieldwork hours and pass the BCBA certification exam administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)®.

BCBAs are responsible for conducting assessments to identify the needs and goals of people on the autism spectrum. Based on these assessments, they develop behavior intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs.

BCBAs also provide training and support to other professionals, caregivers, and educators involved in the person’s treatment. BCBAs offer ongoing supervision and oversight to RBTs and other behavior therapy staff, and they make necessary adjustments to optimize outcomes.

BCBAs collaborate with other professionals, such as speech language pathologists, occupational therapists, school staff, and case managers to provide comprehensive care for people with autism.

Comparative Analysis: BCBA vs RBT

Here are the key differences in terms of educational qualifications, scope of practice, and career opportunities for a BCBA vs RBT:

Educational Qualifications: RBTs need at least a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete a 40-hour training program approved by the BACB. In contrast, BCBAs are required to hold a master’s degree in behavior analysis or a related field, complete supervised experience, and pass a rigorous certification exam.
Scope of Practice: RBTs work under the supervision of a BCBA, focusing on implementing behavior intervention plans and collecting data. BCBAs have a broader scope of practice, including conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and overseeing the implementation of interventions. BCBAs have more autonomy and are authorized to make clinical decisions.
Career Opportunities: RBTs typically provide direct therapy in various settings, such as schools and homes. BCBAs have more diverse career paths, including roles as consultants, supervisors, or private practitioners. RBT vs BCBA salary levels can vary across the country. Because of their advanced education and responsibilities, BCBAs generally earn higher salaries.

Both RBTs and BCBAs play important roles in autism therapy, complementing each other to provide comprehensive support and intervention for individuals with autism. Understanding these RBT vs BCBA roles can help you make informed decisions about your career path in this rewarding field. To learn more about behavior technician jobs and ABA career opportunities available at LEARN, visit our careers page.

Join Our Team of Behavior Analysts

Updated On October 15, 2024

What’s it like to work as a Behavior Analyst with LEARN Behavioral and our network of providers? Hear from real Behavior Analysts about what their experience has been like.

LEARN more about how you can pursue excellence with LEARN by visiting our Advance Your Career page.

Learn More

What’s it like to be a Behavior Technician? – Celeste W. from BACA

Updated On August 23, 2024

Celeste from Fishers, IN tells us what it’s like being a Behavior Technician for the Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA).

To learn more and start your career with us visit: https://learnbehavioral.com/careers/start-your-career

What is a Behavior Technician?

Updated On August 9, 2024

Ever heard of the job behavior technician? If you like working with kids and families—and making a difference in their lives, while earning a paycheck—this might be the job for you.

A job as a behavior tech is a fairly new entry-level position that involves working with children and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a developmental disability that can cause language, social, and behavioral challenges. Behavior techs (BTs) receive training to use a science-based therapy called applied behavior analysis (ABA) to help people with autism build skills in communication, socialization, self-help, and play.

If you’re still uncertain or want to learn more, read on for answers to common questions about the job.

Where do behavior technicians work?

As a behavior tech, you would work one-on-one with a client in a variety of settings, such as a child’s home, community, or school, or learning center.

Who do behavior technicians work with?

While a large number of jobs involve working with children with autism, behavior techs can work with people of any age. Most people who receive services from behavior techs have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which affects one in 36 children worldwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As a “spectrum disorder,” ASD causes individuals to experience the signs and symptoms in various ways and to varying degrees. Most often, though, ASD can affect a child’s ability to communicate, form friendships, interact with other people, and manage emotions and behaviors in tough situations.

What does a behavior technician do?

A large part of your job would be to follow the guidelines laid out in each client’s treatment plan, which provides specific treatment goals and information in a paper-based or digital format. Written by the behavior tech’s supervisor, who is often a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA), goals target important skills for that person to practice and develop. These can include communication skills, play and social skills, and self-help skills like tying a shoe or zipping up a jacket.

Along with each skill, the treatment plan provides specific instructions on how to teach each lesson, outlining what to do when a client responds correctly, and what to do if they need more help. Throughout the entire session, you would provide praise and encouragement, doing what you can to make the session fun and engaging. In addition, you would collect data to later use to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and guide future treatment decisions.

What does a social skills group look like?

Some behavior techs work in small groups of children, practicing social skills or facilitating play-dates. In these situations, you would “assist” children in playing, which could involve going over skills before they play with their peers, observing them as they play, prompting when necessary, and praising any effective social skills you notice children using.

What is it like to work with adults?

Adult programs typically take place in homes or “day-habs,” which are facilities in the community that provide services to groups of individuals during weekday hours. Sessions often focus on independence in self-help skills and vocational activities. In these settings, you might help your client practice activities like grocery shopping or keeping the house clean, or improve vocational skills such as cooking or making copies. Sometimes behavior techs take on the role of job coach for adults in their workplace, supporting their success at a job or volunteer position. In this situation, the tactics are similar to working with children, but the treatment goals shift to the working adult’s unique needs.

How can I tell if my work is making a difference?

As behavior techs practice each lesson with their client, they take data on each response the client makes, making a quick note about whether the client gets it right or wrong, or needs extra help. The data, graphed regularly and over time, form a beautiful, visual graph of the client’s learning and growth, allowing you to see progress, or the lack thereof, at a glance.

If a career as a behavior tech sounds like the right fit for you, browse our openings, and apply for a job today.

View Behavior Tech Jobs

9 Types of People Who Should Apply for an Entry-Level ABA Job

Updated On July 17, 2024

Looking for an entry-level yet meaningful and growth-oriented job? Like many, you may not know about the growing field of applied behavior analysis (ABA), a therapy based on science—and used to help people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) learn and grow. The entry-level position for ABA is called a behavior technician, and most jobs require no prior experience.

What does a behavior tech do? As a behavior tech, you would work one-on-one with children and young adults with autism to help them build skills and become more independent. You would also be part of a team of clinicians and caregivers working to help individuals achieve unique goals and reach their potential.

Are you a good fit for a job in ABA? Read on to see if you recognize yourself in any of these nine descriptions:

You want to make a difference.

New behavior technicians are often blown away by the progress their clients make. Nothing is more gratifying than knowing that your work leads to positive change in the lives of kids and families.
You love children.

Many ABA jobs involve working with children. If you love children and enjoy making them smile and seeing their progress, this might be the job for you. In most ABA jobs, your training is provided at no cost, so loving children is the only requirement.
You like variety at work.

Work as a behavior technician is never boring. ABA positions may be located in any of number of environments, whether in an individual’s home, workplace, school, or community—or in one of our Learning Centers. For instance, you might work with a child at home to build turn-taking skills by playing a game or practice making requests through imaginary or pretend play. Likewise, you might venture to the grocery store with an older child or young adult to practice selecting food and going through the check-out line. Whatever the case, there is no end to the types of skills you may teach, from imitating words to ordering a meal and making change in a restaurant!
You’re interested in special education, psychology, speech and language pathology, occupational therapy, or physical therapy.

You don’t want to start a degree program until you’re positive it’s the field for you. Working as a behavior tech gives you excellent experience working directly with a population of children you might encounter in any of the above fields. As a bonus, hiring managers in education and other specialty services love to see an ABA background on an applicant’s resume.
You want to change your field or career.

ABA training is provided on-the-job. In most cases, you don’t need to come in with any special knowledge or training—only a great attitude and a willingness to learn.
You’re a current or former paraprofessional or instructional aide in a school.

Some people gravitate to education but realize that working in a classroom is not for them. ABA allows you to work with fewer children more closely in a variety of settings, not just a single classroom or school. For this reason, you have more flexibility over your schedule and can often work part-time or full-time.
You’re independent and enjoy a supportive work environment.

As a behavior technician in an ABA setting, you typically receive written instructions on what to do, plus regular support from your supervisor, a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA). Most days, however, you also lead teaching sessions on your own, giving you an ideal mix of support and independence.
You want to find meaning in your work.

There is nothing more fulfilling than supporting a person in gaining independence or helping children find their voice. Behavior technicians do important, meaningful work each and every day, and often experience a strong sense of fulfillment.
You’re curious and enjoy learning—and want a career with growth potential.

Ongoing learning and problem-solving are essential parts of any ABA career, including a position as a behavior technician. As a behavior tech, you can continue in that capacity or take your career to any number of next levels, starting with a position as a managing behavior technician. From there, with a bachelor’s degree, you could become an assistant behavior analyst—and then work toward your master’s degree, while serving as a clinical fellow. Once you earned a master’s degree, you could become a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA), and work your way to a managing BCBA or even a clinical director. The sky is the limit.

As more people enter the fast-growing field of ABA, either as a behavior technician for the long-run or as a stepping stone to another professional career, ask yourself whether you fit the bill—and, if so, visit our careers page and search “behavior technician” to apply for a job today.

What’s it like to be a Behavior Technician? – Kennessa W.

Updated On January 3, 2024

Kennessa from San Diego, CA tells us what it’s like being a Behavior Technician for Autism Spectrum Therapies.

Contact Us to Learn More

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The Importance of Ethical Decision Making For Behavior Analysts

Updated On September 26, 2023

Dr. Linda LeBlanc, a Licensed Psychologist and author of 3 books on supervision joins us to discuss her latest book about ethics which she co-authored with Dr. Amanda Karsten, who is the Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at Grand Valley State University. Their new book titled Proactive and Practical Decision Making for Behavior Analysis explores the critical need for continually examining and evolving the role of ethics in providing services. As Dr. Karsten shared, “I hope we can help normalize the range of emotions that early career folks may be experiencing but also empower them with strategies they can put into motion and navigate step by step. And to know that being in a difficult ethical situation is not going to overwhelm them.”

For more information:

https://sloanpublishing.com/ethics

All Autism Talk (https://www.allautismtalk.com/) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (https://learnbehavioral.com).