Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the application of methods and strategies, derived from the science of behavior analysis, to solving socially significant problems.  Behavior analysis is a natural science approach to psychology that emphasizes the relationship between observable behaviors and the environment in which they occur.   

ABA-based therapies have become some of the most scientifically investigated and evidence-based practices for children with autism, developmental and intellectual disabilities, and those presenting difficult to manage behaviors.  With over 50 years of research, ABA is considered a “best” practice for developing adaptive and social skills, improving language and communication repertoires, and training life skills.  ABA is also utilized to address difficult and non-adaptive skills such as aggression, opposition, self-stimulation, and self-injurious behaviors.  ABA-based therapies for addressing deficits associated with autism have been endorsed by the US Surgeon General, the American Psychology Association, the National Committee on Autism, and the American Pediatric Association.

If you or your child has qualified for an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis, please refer to your insurance benefits to inquire about Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services and the coverage provided to you. If you have yet to do so, it is recommended to contact the Marquette specialty pediatric clinic to make an appointment for an evaluation. To do so, please click the following link. For further information to receive ABA services, please call the BEAR Center's front desk at 906-227-2994. 

To make a referral, please contact our office by phone at 906-227-2994 or email at info@bearcenter.nmu.edu. Contact information can also be found at the following link. 

The legal guardians of a client may attend client sessions at anytime. It is recommended to notify the clinic supervisor prior to attending a session. In addition, any caregiver identified as critical to your child’s treatment plan may also attend with guardian approval.

A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is a paraprofessional who practices under the close, ongoing supervision of a Board Certified assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA), Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), or Board Certified Behavior Analyst- Doctoral (BCBA-D). The primary responsibility of a RBT is to directly implement behavior-analytic services. This certification must be renewed annually. 

To earn RBT certification, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass the RBT certification exam. These requirements were established to ensure that entry-level behavior technicians have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for delivering behavior analysis services under the supervision of a qualified supervisor. To apply, you must:

• be at least 18 years old

• have completed high school-level education or equivalent

• pass a criminal background check and an abuse registry check

• obtain 40 hours of qualified training

• successfully complete an RBT initial competency assessment

The BEAR Center offers a 40 hour training designed to meet the eligibility requirements. For more information on becoming an RBT, see this link. 

For more information on the RBT training offered by the BEAR Center or to register for this training, please see the continuing education and workforce development page by following this link.