What Is the Difference Between ABA and BCBA?

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Written By:

Tara O'Brien

RBT

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a science‑based therapy that helps individuals, especially children with autism build meaningful skills in communication, behavior, and social interaction. It uses positive reinforcement and structured teaching to support long‑term growth. ABA is the therapy itself, not a job title.

What does ABA or BCBA mean?

A BCBA, or Board Certified Behavior Analyst, is the highly trained professional who designs and oversees ABA programs. BCBAs assess each child’s needs, create individualized treatment plans, train ABA therapists, and monitor progress to ensure therapy stays effective and ethical. In short: ABA is the treatment; the BCBA is the expert who guides it.

ABA therapists (sometimes called behavior technicians) work directly with children during sessions, while BCBAs provide the clinical direction behind every goal, strategy, and intervention. This partnership ensures high‑quality, evidence‑based care for every child.

At Admire ABA, our team collaborates closely to deliver compassionate, individualized ABA therapy in Maryland for families.

Discover how our team can help your child thrive. Contact us today!

SOURCES:

https://www.cdc.gov/autism/treatment/index.html

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25197-applied-behavior-analysis

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18775372

https://www.nature.com/articles/tp2017207

https://online.regiscollege.edu/blog/aba-therapy-examples

 

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