What Is the Difference Between ABA and BCBA?

October 10, 2025

The terms ABA and BCBA are closely related but refer to different things. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy approach that uses evidence-based techniques to help individuals with autism and other developmental challenges improve communication, social, and daily living skills. It focuses on understanding behavior and teaching positive alternatives through

A BCBA, or Board Certified Behavior Analyst, is the professional who designs, oversees, and monitors ABA therapy programs. BCBAs are highly trained specialists who assess each child’s needs, create personalized treatment plans, and guide a team of therapists to ensure consistent progress. In short, ABA is the therapy itself, while the BCBA is the expert who leads and supervises the process.


Both work together to help children with autism reach their fullest potential. The BCBA ensures that ABA therapy remains effective, ethical, and tailored to each child’s strengths and goals.

At Achieve Behavioral Therapy, our team of experienced BCBAs and dedicated therapists provide compassionate   ABA Therapy in New Jersey and North Carolina to help families   thrive.


Ready to start ABA therapy with expert guidance? Contact us today!


SOURCES

https://www.bacb.com/bcba/



https://www.psychology.org/resources/bcba-meaning-career-overview/


https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9458805/


https://www.reddit.com/r/Autism_Parenting/comments/1hv2bhb/for_parents_doing_aba_therapy_themselves_at_home/


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Applied_behavior_analysis


Need Support?

We're Here to Help!

Our experienced team is ready to assist you. Reach out today to discuss how we can support your child's development and well-being.

Get started with expert ABA therapy today.

ABA therapist with clipboard talking and smiling with an autistic girl on a couch.
October 28, 2025
Learn how to set SMART ABA goals that are specific, measurable, and achievable. Discover how to choose meaningful targets and track real progress over time.
ABA therapist smiles as a young girl with autism places small objects into her open hand.
October 28, 2025
Discover how positive reinforcement transforms behavior through rewards and motivation in ABA therapy. Learn effective strategies for meaningful change.
A young boy with autism in a suit and large glasses sitting at a desk.
October 27, 2025
Learn what overstimulation feels like in autism and how compassionate ABA therapy helps children understand their triggers and find balance in daily life.
Cheerful child with autism wearing pink headphones laughing with therapist in ABA therapy.
October 27, 2025
Wondering if ABA therapy is repetitive? Learn why structured repetition helps kids build skills, confidence, and independence in a fun, personalized way.
A smiling therapist and autistic girl drawing together at a table in a cozy home setting.
October 27, 2025
Discover how ABA therapy supports both toddlers and teens with autism. Learn how goals, strategies, and skills evolve as children grow and gain independence.
A therapist helping autistic girl with pigtails draw on paper in ABA therapy.
October 27, 2025
Discover the ABCs of behavior in ABA therapy and how understanding these simple principles can help your child learn, communicate, and grow with confidence.
A therapist and autistic child lying on the carpet, laughing and playing with wooden blocks.
October 27, 2025
Want your child’s ABA therapy to feel uplifting and effective? Explore how family involvement turns ABA into a truly positive journey for growth and confidence.
Autistic women driving a car, hands on the steering wheel and focused on the road in New Jersey.
October 18, 2025
Learn how autism may affect driving ability, licensing, and support options. Explore safe, inclusive paths to independence behind the wheel in New Jersey.
An ABA therapist comforting a sad autistic boy by gently placing a hand on their head after therapy
October 18, 2025
Learn the six stages of an autism meltdown, from triggers to recovery & how recognizing each phase helps parents & caregivers support children calmly.
Show More