Becoming an international behavior therapist or applied behavior analysis technician (ABAT) can be a highly rewarding career, allowing you to work with diverse populations, apply behavior science across different cultural contexts, and make a global impact. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your skill set, the right ABA course is essential to achieving certification and thriving in this field.
In this guide, i’ll walk you through the steps to choose the best ABA course, focusing on your international career aspirations, and explain why the course offered by Autism Intervention Specialists is the right fit for you.
1. Determine Your Certification Goals
The first step is identifying which certification path aligns with your professional objectives. There are two key certifications for those looking to pursue a career in ABA:
- International Behavior Therapist: If you’re just entering the ABA field, IBT certification is ideal. IBTs work under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or qualified Behavior Analysts and implement ABA interventions. IBT certification requires completing a 40-hour course, 300 hours of fieldwork practice, 10 hours supervision, 4 Continuing Educaitonal Units (CEUs), 2 skills tests, and successfully taking an exam.
- Applied Behavior Analysis Technician (ABAT): ABAT has similar role as an IBT except as an ABAT you need 15 hours of supervision, a recommendation from a supervisor, and then passing an exam.
With either certification, having credentials recognized on a global scale will open doors for you to work across different countries and cultures.
2. Focus on Global Applicability of the Course
If your goal is to work internationally, choose a course that not only meets certification requirements but also emphasizes cultural competence and prepares you to work in various global settings. The best ABA courses for aspiring international therapists will cover:
- Cultural sensitivity in ABA practice: Being able to adapt behavior strategies to align with diverse cultural norms is key to succeeding as an international behavior therapist.
- Global case studies: Courses that include examples from international settings will give you real-world insights into how ABA is applied across different countries.
- Flexibility in certification: Ensure that the course prepares you for certifications that are recognized worldwide, such as the IBAO certification.
3. Choose an IBAO-Approved Course
For those aiming to work as international behavior therapists, selecting a course approved by the International Behavior Analysis Organization (IBAO) is crucial. The IBAO certification is widely recognized globally and focuses on preparing behavior therapists for international roles, making it ideal for those seeking careers abroad.
- IBT training should be in line with IBAO standards, ensuring you meet the international competencies required for certification.
- IBT preparation courses should adhere to the IBAO curriculum, which emphasizes global best practices and ethical guidelines in behavior analysis.
By choosing an IBAO-approved course, like Autism Intervention Specialists, your certification will be recognized worldwide, giving you the opportunity to work in a variety of cultural and geographical settings.
4. Consider Online Courses for Flexibility
As an aspiring international behavior therapist, flexibility is essential, especially if you’re balancing work, study, and travel. Online ABA courses provide the convenience of learning from anywhere. When considering online options, look for:
- Fully online programs: These allow you to complete your coursework remotely, regardless of where you are.
- Self-paced learning: If you’re juggling other commitments, self-paced courses allow you to study when it suits your schedule.
- Interactive learning: Despite being online, the course should offer opportunities for live Q&A, peer discussions, and real-time feedback from instructors.
5. Assess Instructor Expertise and Support
When choosing a course, ensure it is taught by qualified and experienced Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) or International Behavior Analysts (IBAs). Instructors with international ABA experience will be especially valuable as they can offer insights and strategies for working across diverse cultures.
Additionally, look for courses that provide:
- Access to expert instructors: Ensure that instructors are available for one-on-one support or feedback.
- International experience: Instructors who have worked globally will offer practical advice for working in different cultural environments.
6. Compare Costs and Look for Added Value
While cost is a factor, the real value lies in the quality and comprehensiveness of the course. Consider the following when comparing courses:
- Does the course offer additional study materials such as practice exams, study guides, or review quizzes?
- Are there any networking opportunities with other international students or professionals?
- Does the course provide resources for international job placement or guidance for launching a global career?
Invest in a course that not only provides certification but also prepares you for long-term success in the international ABA field.
7. Evaluate Success Stories and Reviews
The experiences of past students can give you a clear picture of what to expect from a course. Look for success stories and testimonials, especially from individuals who have gone on to work internationally. Reviews can tell you:
- How well the course prepared students for certification and their international career.
- Whether the course included international case studies or examples relevant to diverse settings.
- If students felt supported by instructors throughout their learning journey.
Why Autism Intervention Specialists’ Course is the Right Choice for You
At Autism Intervention Specialists, we offer a top-tier ABA course specifically designed for individuals who aspire to become international behavior therapists or applied behavior analysis technicians. Here’s why our course stands out:
- IBAO-Approved and QABA-Approved: Our training program is fully approved by the International Behavior Analysis Organization (IBAO), ensuring that your certification will be recognized worldwide.
- Global Focus: We emphasize cultural competence, preparing you to work with clients in diverse cultural settings. Our course includes real-world case studies from international contexts, ensuring you’re equipped to handle the unique challenges of global practice.
- Flexible Online Learning: Our course is fully online and self-paced, allowing you to complete it from anywhere in the world. Whether you’re traveling or balancing other commitments, we provide the flexibility you need to achieve certification.
- Expert Instructors with International Experience: Our instructor is an expert in autism and is a renowned BCBA and IBA with significant international experience. He is also an Advisory Board Member for the IBAO in the United Arab Emirates and Azerbaijan. Having many years of experience working in the United States, Dubai, and Kuwait, you’ll benefit from his insights into global ABA practices and cultural adaptation strategies.
- Comprehensive Resources: We offer a range of study aids, including practice exams, study guides, and networking opportunities with a global cohort of students. You’ll also receive career guidance tailored to finding opportunities abroad.
Choosing Autism Intervention Specialists means you’re not just gaining certification—you’re investing in a global career that will allow you to make a lasting impact across cultures.
Ready to take the next step toward becoming an international behavior therapist? Enroll now with Autism Intervention Specialists and start your global career journey!
