What Does a Behavior Support Specialist Do?

The Behavior Support Specialist plays an integral role in educational and therapeutic settings, focusing on individuals who exhibit challenging behaviors due to various factors, including developmental disorders, emotional disturbances, or environmental stressors. This professional works closely with a multidisciplinary team to assess the needs of individuals and develop customized intervention plans that promote positive behavior changes. Through a combination of observation, direct interaction, and collaboration with families or caregivers, the Behavior Support Specialist aims to enhance the individual’s ability to participate in their community and educational environment more effectively. Their efforts are geared towards fostering an understanding and supportive atmosphere that encourages personal growth and improved social interactions for those they assist.

Behavior Support Specialist Job Duties

• Develop and implement individualized behavior support plans based on thorough assessments of clients’ needs and behaviors.
• Collaborate with educators, therapists, and families to integrate behavior support strategies into daily routines and educational plans.
• Utilize positive reinforcement and other evidence-based strategies to encourage desirable behaviors and reduce occurrences of challenging behaviors.
• Document clients’ progress and adjust behavior support plans as necessary to ensure effectiveness and appropriateness.
• Provide crisis intervention in situations where severe behavioral issues arise, employing de-escalation techniques to ensure the safety of all involved.
• Facilitate training sessions for caregivers, educators, and other professionals on behavior management techniques and the implementation of behavior support plans.
• Conduct functional behavior assessments (FBAs) to identify the causes and functions of challenging behaviors in various settings.
• Advocate for the rights and needs of individuals with behavioral challenges, ensuring they receive appropriate accommodations and support in their communities and educational settings.

Behavior Support Specialist Salary & Outlook

Factors influencing a Behavior Support Specialist’s salary include years of experience, specialization in certain behavioral disorders, the employing organization’s sector (public vs. private), and the demand for such specialists in specific populations (e.g., children, adults with disabilities). Additionally, the role’s complexity and required on-call hours can significantly affect earnings.

• Median Annual Salary: $51,975 ($24.99/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $77,500 ($37.26/hour)

The employment of behavior support specialists is expected to grow much faster than average over the next decade.

This growth is driven by increasing awareness of mental health issues, the expansion of inclusive education, and a greater demand for personalized support in schools and community settings, requiring skilled professionals to develop and implement behavior intervention plans for individuals with diverse needs.

Behavior Support Specialist Job Requirements

Education: A Behavior Support Specialist often requires a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in psychology, education, social work, or a related field. Coursework in behavioral analysis, psychology, special education, and counseling is essential. Majors in these areas provide a foundational understanding of human behavior, developmental disorders, and intervention strategies. Advanced degrees may focus on specialized training in behavioral assessment and intervention techniques, preparing individuals for more complex cases and roles within educational or therapeutic settings.

Experience: Behavior Support Specialists typically come with a background rich in hands-on experience, often having spent significant time working directly with individuals requiring behavioral support. This experience is usually gained through roles in mental health facilities, educational settings, or specialized care environments. On-the-job training is common, allowing specialists to refine their approach to behavior management. Additionally, many have participated in formal training programs that focus on behavior analysis and support strategies, equipping them with the tools to effectively address and modify challenging behaviors. This blend of practical experience and targeted training is crucial for success in the role.

Certifications & Licenses: Behavior Support Specialists often require certification in Positive Behavior Support (PBS) or Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification. Some positions may also require a specific state-issued license in behavioral health or psychology. Additionally, certification in crisis intervention, such as the Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) certification, can be beneficial. These certifications ensure specialists are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively support individuals with behavioral challenges.

Behavior Support Specialist Skills

Behavior Analysis: Involves the detailed examination and interpretation of behavior patterns to devise targeted interventions that foster positive change. Collaboration with clients, their families, and professionals is crucial to modify and refine these strategies, ensuring they align with the individual’s needs.

Crisis Management: Specialists employ empathy, clear communication, and strategic interventions to de-escalate situations where individuals may pose risks to themselves or others. Their approach restores safety and stability, allowing all involved to progress positively.

Individualized Support Plans: Specialists draw on their extensive knowledge of behavioral theories and intervention techniques to create customized strategies. These plans are designed to support the individual’s goals and promote positive behavior changes, emphasizing a person-centered approach.

Positive Reinforcement Strategies: By using rewards and recognition, specialists encourage desired behaviors, fostering a supportive and motivating environment. This method is crucial for developing and maintaining positive behavior patterns.

Functional Communication Training: Specialists focus on teaching individuals alternative, more appropriate ways to express their needs and desires. This strategy aims to reduce problematic behaviors and improve the individual’s ability to engage positively with others.

Data Collection and Analysis: Accurate observation and measurement of behavior in different settings are fundamental. Specialists analyze this data to identify patterns and changes, allowing for the creation of responsive and proactive intervention plans that support the client’s behavioral goals.

Behavior Support Specialist Work Environment

Behavior Support Specialists often find themselves in varied environments, from schools and clinics to clients’ homes, adapting their workspace to the immediate needs of their clients. The physical setting can range from a quiet, private office for planning and documentation to dynamic, interactive spaces where interventions occur. Tools of the trade are predominantly non-physical, focusing on communication aids, behavior tracking software, and occasionally, sensory integration tools to support client needs.

Work hours may extend beyond the typical nine-to-five, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends, to accommodate the schedules of clients and their families. This role demands a high level of flexibility, with dress codes varying according to the setting, leaning towards practical and approachable attire.

The emotional landscape of this profession is rich and challenging, requiring a steady demeanor and resilience. Interaction with clients, families, and other professionals is a constant, underscoring the importance of strong interpersonal skills. Despite the demands, the opportunity for professional growth is significant, with ongoing training and development a staple to ensure the highest standards of support are maintained.

Advancement Prospects

Behavior Support Specialists can advance to senior roles within educational or therapeutic settings, such as Lead Behavior Support Specialist or Behavior Analyst. Progression often involves taking on more complex cases and demonstrating leadership in developing and implementing behavior support plans.

To accomplish these advancements, specialists should focus on gaining extensive experience in behavior analysis and support strategies. Mastery in creating and executing individualized support plans is crucial. Additionally, obtaining a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification can be a significant step towards higher-level positions, as it is recognized and required for more advanced roles in the field.

Engaging in specialized training programs that focus on advanced behavior analysis techniques and leadership skills can also pave the way for career progression. These programs can provide the necessary tools for managing teams and leading behavior support initiatives across settings.