We assert that the BEST outcomes for practitioners and consumers will occur when issues related to the practice of ABA are regulated by BAs. Preserving and protecting the discipline simultaneously protects the consumer

What do we have to preserve & protect? Hundreds of published studies document the effectiveness of many specific, focused ABA techniques for building a wide range of important skills and reducing problem behaviors in people of all ages, & in a variety of settings when treatment is directed by qualified professional behavior analysts. Careful meta-analyses showed that early intensive ABA produced larger, more reliable improvements than “eclectic” (mixed-method) treatment or standard services. (Howard, Sparkman, Cohen, Green & Stanislaw, 2005)

2. The role of the BACB 3. Problems and concerns 4. Self-regulation facts & projection 1. ABA as a distinct discipline

Origins of BA Behavior analysis - distinct scientific discipline, separate from psychology and other disciplines. It originated in experimental--not clinical -- psychology, but developed its own conceptualizations, principles, research methods, and scientific literature. B.F. Skinner developed behavior analysis s NATURAL science of behavior with distinctive conceptual underpinnings and research methods. 1. ABA as a distinct discipline

The Council of Specialties in Professional Psychology states explicitly that “The BACB certifies behavior analysts. The BACB certification is NOT a psychological certification....the Legal Affairs Division of the California Department of Consumer Affairs concluded that “…while behavior analysts are engaged in behavior modification, it is in a context and methodology different than that of psychologists or marriage, family, or child counselors” and that behavior analysts were not engaged in the practice of any of those professions. The Profession of BA MEETS AND EXCEEDS the criteria for identifying as a distinct discipline as outlined in Ford v. Philadelphia Housing Authority. 1. ABA as a distinct discipline

According to Shook (2007), the greatest number of Board Certified Behavior Analysts today graduate with a terminal master’s degree in Special Education, not Psychology. Some behavior analysis training programs reside in departments of psychology, but few college or university programs that prepare individuals for psychology licensure provide much training in behavior analysis; most provide none. Notably, a recent practice analysis for licensed psychologists conducted for the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards did not include behavior analysis, applied behavior analysis, or even behavioral psychology among the major areas of training or practice. 1. ABA as a distinct discipline

The BACB credentials are recognized in a variety of state laws or rules as qualifications for certain positions and/or reimbursement without additional state regulation. Examples: WV: legislative audit finding that BACB credential sufficient for public protection; Codes of state developmental services agencies (e.g., CA, FL); Medicaid rules (e.g., FL, ME); Codes of state education systems (e.g., CA, CT, LA); Most of 31 statutes requiring certain health plans to cover ABA treatment for autism 2. The Role of the BACB

Psychometric testing of eligible candidates Renewal of certification based on acquisition of CEUs & good standing Options for consumer complaints & Disciplinary actions taken Develop and revise ethical and professional guidelines Monitor approved university programs Assistance to states conducting mandatory criminal background checks Development/testing candidates on local laws & rules

Scope of practice Profession B Scope of practice Profession A (regulatory authority) can bill for same service competition should occasion a better product but because A can regulate B conflict exists 3. Problems & Concerns

Even with a title and practice act establishing independent practice rights being under another regulatory authority is actually perpetual supervision Prior to the autism insurance laws there apparently was little interest in what we do professionally “...if you go under [them] you will never see the light of day” Last legislative session, Louisiana consumers, advocates, and Behavior Analysts (over 1,600) strongly opposed multiple licensure bills in which the LSBEP was the regulatory authority for behavior analysts. Byproduct of a hostile environment laden with threats. 3. Problems & Concerns

1) Coordination with BACB & State Professional Organization 2) Liaise w/ State and Local Authorities (AG & DA) 3) Part-time/Shared Staff 4) Pro Bono assistance 5) Shared Office space/expenses It might not be easy, but let the BAs do it! It is the profession of Behavior Analysis, Behavior Analysts have the responsibility to get it right! 4. Self-Reg. facts & projection

Composition of the Louisiana State Board of Behavior Analysts

In Summary The Louisiana Behavior Analysis Association recognizes and respects the right of every practitioner profession to regulate the practice of its own members, within the boundaries of applicable laws and regulations. We assert that same right for appropriately credentialed practitioners of applied behavior analysis (ABA). We should not be required to be licensed as or supervised by members of other professions. BAs in our state currently practice under the rigorous standards and ethical guidelines of the BABC We are seeking licensure as a professional credential We strongly believe in order to protect the public we need to preserve & protect the science & discipline of BA We believe we can better achieve this through an independent licensing board