What You Should Do After ABA Therapy Certification

Earning your ABA certification is a major milestone, especially for professionals seeking a rewarding career supporting children with developmental needs. If you’re looking to build your career in ABA Maryland, knowing your next steps is essential. From choosing the right work environment to ongoing professional development, your post-certification journey offers countless opportunities to grow and make an impact.

Whether you're planning to work in an ABA therapy center, provide ABA therapy at home, or engage in community programs that include activities for kids with autism, your certification opens doors to dynamic and meaningful paths. Here’s what you should focus on next.

Understand the Certification You Hold

Before diving into career options, ensure you're clear about your certification level—whether it's Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA), or Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Each level comes with its own set of responsibilities and professional boundaries.

• RBTs assist in delivering services under close supervision.
• BCaBAs provide behavior-analytic services under the supervision of a BCBA.
• BCBAs can practice independently and supervise RBTs and BCaBAs.

Your level determines the kinds of roles you can pursue in ABA Maryland, so clarity here is crucial.

Choose Your Work Environment

Post-certification, one of the most important decisions you'll make is where to practice. Maryland offers a wide range of settings, including:

• ABA therapy centers: Structured environments ideal for those new to the field.
• Schools and educational facilities: Great for those who enjoy structured schedules and team collaboration.
• ABA therapy at home: Allows for a more personalized approach and offers flexibility for both the therapist and the family.

Many professionals in ABA Maryland find a balance between center-based and in-home services. It not only diversifies your experience but also enhances your skills in adapting behavior plans to different settings.

Apply for Licensure (If Required)

In Maryland, behavior analysts must meet state licensing requirements. This involves submitting proof of your certification (usually from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board) and completing the necessary application through the Maryland Department of Health.

Stay up to date on licensure changes to ensure compliance and avoid delays in beginning your work. Without proper licensing, your ability to practice ABA therapy at home or in any formal setting may be restricted.

Gain Supervised Experience (If Needed)

If you’ve just become an RBT or BCaBA, continued supervision is not just recommended—it’s required. Seek employment at an ABA therapy center or with a reputable ABA Maryland provider that offers structured supervision from BCBAs.

This experience will help reinforce the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis in real-world settings, preparing you for more advanced roles in the future. You’ll also learn how to work effectively with children and families, track progress, and refine individualized treatment plans.

Build a Network with ABA Professionals

Networking is often underestimated but plays a huge role in professional growth. Connect with other ABA providers in Maryland through:

• State conferences and workshops
• Online communities and LinkedIn groups
• Continuing education seminars

This will help you stay informed about new techniques, job opportunities, and strategies for improving your skills in ABA Maryland.

Consider Specializing

While general ABA work is highly impactful, specializing can help you stand out in a competitive field. Here are some focus areas:

• Early intervention programs
• School-based behavior intervention
• Activities for kids with autism (such as play-based learning, communication exercises, and social games)
• Parent training and family counseling

Specializing not only enhances your effectiveness but can also boost your career advancement in both in-home and center-based settings.

Stay Updated with Continuing Education

ABA is an evolving science, so continuing education is key to staying relevant. Look for CEU opportunities that focus on:

• Ethics in ABA practice
• Advanced behavior intervention strategies
• Cultural competency
• Practical implementation in ABA therapy at home

In ABA Maryland, many therapy centers offer in-house training sessions. Taking part in these will help you fulfill licensure requirements and strengthen your professional toolkit.

Explore Job Opportunities

Once certified and licensed, it’s time to begin your job hunt. Maryland has a growing demand for ABA professionals across multiple sectors:

• ABA therapy centers with structured programs
• Public and private schools
• Pediatric healthcare facilities
• In-home ABA agencies

Use job boards, LinkedIn, and local professional associations to search for roles that align with your skills and interests. Many providers also look for staff who can implement activities for kids with autism, as these are essential components of many ABA programs.

Prepare a Strong Resume and Interview Strategy

Highlight your certification, hands-on experience, and knowledge of treatment planning and data collection. If you’ve had experience delivering ABA therapy at home, mention how you've adapted programs for specific family needs. In your interview, demonstrate your passion for working with children and your commitment to ethical and evidence-based practices.

Tailoring your resume for positions within ABA Maryland agencies or centers will show that you understand the local landscape and are serious about long-term contributions.

Maintain Ethical Standards

Working in ABA means you have a direct impact on children and families. Uphold the ethical guidelines provided by the BACB and your state licensure board. Integrity, compassion, and professionalism will set you apart and help you build trust with clients and colleagues alike.

In Maryland, maintaining ethical standards is especially critical due to the state’s emphasis on quality care and regulatory compliance. Whether you're working in an ABA therapy center or offering ABA therapy at home, your behavior must reflect the high standards of the field.

Create or Join Community Programs

Beyond professional roles, you can contribute to your community by participating in or organizing outreach events. This might include:

• Hosting workshops for parents
• Organizing social groups and play-based activities for kids with autism
• Volunteering at local schools or non-profits

These efforts not only enhance your community’s awareness of ABA but also demonstrate your leadership and initiative—qualities valued by many ABA Maryland employers.

Think Long-Term: Career Advancement and Growth

Consider where you’d like to be five or ten years from now. Do you want to:

• Open your own ABA therapy center?
• Provide in-home services through your own practice?
• Mentor new professionals or become a clinical director?

Understanding your long-term goals will guide your decisions today. Maryland’s ABA field is growing, and with the right steps, you can become a leader in providing meaningful, life-changing care.

Conclusion

Achieving ABA therapy certification is only the beginning of a fulfilling career in behavior analysis. With numerous pathways available—whether in a structured ABA therapy center, offering ABA therapy at home, or creating enriching activities for kids with autism—there’s no shortage of opportunities to make a difference.

The state of ABA Maryland is vibrant, full of passionate professionals and supportive agencies ready to welcome new talent. By continuing your education, networking, and exploring specialized roles, you’ll not only grow as a professional but also enhance the lives of countless children and families.

At Big Dreamers ABA, we specialize in ABA therapy for autism—a proven, science-based treatment grounded in applied behavior analysis. Our mission is to support families with compassionate, effective ABA therapy services. Whether you're searching for in-home ABA therapy near me, ABA agencies, or the best in-home ABA therapy, we’re here to help your child thrive.

FAQs

What can I do after earning my ABA therapy certification in Maryland?

After certification, you can pursue roles as an RBT, BCaBA, or BCBA depending on your qualification level. Maryland offers opportunities in schools, healthcare settings, and ABA therapy centers. Many professionals also provide ABA therapy at home services to support families directly in their natural environment.

Do I need a license to practice ABA therapy in Maryland?

Yes, Maryland requires behavior analysts to be licensed. After your ABA certification, you must apply through the Maryland Department of Health and meet their specific requirements, which often include proof of BACB certification and continuing education. Licensing ensures compliance and credibility in the ABA Maryland field.

How can I gain experience after ABA certification?

Newly certified professionals should seek supervised roles at an ABA therapy center or agency. These positions provide valuable hands-on experience under the guidance of senior behavior analysts. This is especially important for those at the RBT or BCaBA level, where supervision is a mandatory part of career development.

What types of settings can I work in with my ABA certification?

You can work in a variety of settings including ABA therapy centers, public and private schools, early intervention programs, hospitals, and in-home service models. Many families in ABA Maryland prefer ABA therapy at home for its comfort and convenience, making it a popular employment option.

Is it possible to specialize in certain areas after ABA certification?

Yes. Many ABA professionals choose to specialize in areas like early intervention, school-based intervention, or designing activities for kids with autism to promote communication, behavior, and social skills. Specializing can increase your impact and improve your long-term career opportunities.

How do I find ABA job opportunities in Maryland?

You can search through job boards, local ABA Maryland agencies, or professional networks. It’s helpful to connect with ABA providers on LinkedIn, attend local workshops, or reach out to ABA therapy centers that offer supervision and continuing education opportunities.

What are the benefits of working in an ABA therapy center vs. in-home therapy?

Working at an ABA therapy center offers structure, a collaborative team environment, and access to resources. In contrast, ABA therapy at home allows for more flexibility and a personalized approach. Both settings offer meaningful experiences and are prominent in the ABA Maryland landscape.

How important is continuing education in ABA therapy?

Continuing education is essential for staying current in the field and maintaining your certification and licensure. Maryland professionals must regularly complete CEUs in ethics, intervention strategies, and applied techniques to remain qualified and effective.