Ethics and Business Practices for Behavior Analysts

Michael C. Selbst, Ph.D., BCBA-D

During the last ten years, there has been a tremendous growth in the number of behavior analysts. The nature and scope of service delivery has expanded as well. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board^® has established best practices guidelines, credentialing criteria, and uniform content and standards. Yet behavior analysts may find that challenges remain in their day-to-day business practices, including determining who the client is, appropriately and effectively marketing their services, adhering to legal and ethical issues, and understanding the limits of one’s own expertise. There are also similarities and differences in business practices that sometimes exist based upon one’s title, setting, and specific role. Dr. Selbst will discuss these issues from the perspectives of a school-based professional, a professional in private practice, and as part of a company. Opportunities for questions and answers will be included.

Learning Objectives
Participants will be able to describe:

• At least 3 common challenges that behavior analysts experience when they are involved in independent evaluations
• The difference between the “client” and “financially responsible party”
• At least 3 ways to ensure that their work includes evidence-based strategies
• At least 3 important steps necessary prior to beginning work with a client/student
• At least 3 components of best practices for collaborating with other professionals and parents