For 30 years, Berkshire Association for Behavior Analysis and Therapy (BABAT), a respected resource for behavior analysts and others interested in the topic, has hosted an annual conference targeting many professionals, teachers, students, and anyone interested in the areas of behavior analysis, autism, developmental disabilities, ethics, behavioral medicine, staff development and more. The conference draws expert presenters and professionals in the field from across the US. Throughout the year, BABAT provides advocacy for practice, support for members’ professional development, recognition of significant contributions, and the sharing of research and scholarship.
“University faculty, practitioners, and employers of behavior analysts all share the task of preparing new and future behavior analysts for their roles across various settings and populations,” said Colleen Yorlets, Chief Clinical Specialist for Realizing Children’s Strengths. “Regardless of the quality of graduate programs, practicing behavior analysts acquire and develop additional skills and methods in the field, making oversight beyond graduate school essential. In order to ensure the effectiveness and success of early career BCBAs, adequate ongoing support and feedback is critical.”
In the BABAT presentation titled Preparing and Overseeing Early Career BCBAs, panelists discussed some common development areas for new BCBAs and the challenges to oversight. Additionally, panelists shared models and strategies found to be effective in practice.
Nine BCBAs from RCS Learning Center also attended the conference for ongoing education and insight.