Autism specialists work to enhance the quality of life for autistic patients, with many countries requiring a license and completion of a specialist autism program. Many specialists train in Applied Behavior Analysis, and certification is available through the BACB or AMAB. A degree or certificate can be helpful in gaining employment.
The term “autism specialist” is an umbrella term that applies to many types of professionals who specialize in working with autistic patients, helping them medically, socially and psychologically to enhance their quality of life. Autism specialists often have experience as a nurse, physician, social worker, psychologist, occupational therapist, special education teacher, or classroom teacher before specializing. Many countries require autism specialists to obtain a license, which often requires previous experience working with autistic children or adults and completing a specialist autism program at an accredited university, usually with at least a bachelor’s degree. Many of these programs are master’s or certificate programs for those who already hold a master’s degree. Some who already hold a degree in a related field become autism specialists, training through an organization or university that teaches Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a widely recognized and effective behavioral treatment.
Many colleges and universities offer master’s or specialist certificate programs in autism in cooperation with a specific region’s licensure requirements. These programs are usually offered in departments of education or psychology. Some programs offer distance learning options for students who cannot physically attend classes.
Even in a region that does not require specialist autism licensing, a degree or certificate can be helpful in gaining employment as an autism specialist. In many areas, the number of children with autism is growing, outnumbering individuals qualified to treat them. Because there is no single treatment protocol for dealing with autism, these programs accept students from a variety of backgrounds, including education, psychology, and health.
A growing number of autism specialists enter the field by training in Applied Behavior Analysis. ABA therapists who have earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field can become certified by the BACB (Behavior Analyst Certification Board). A Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) holds at least a bachelor’s degree in addition to other qualifications. A Board Certified Behavioral Analyst (BCBA) holds at least a master’s degree. BCaBAs and BCBAs work in schools, in home therapy, and with parents to show how to use ABA techniques.
The American Medical Autism Board (AMAB) offers a certification to applicants who hold a medical degree (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO). Being certified by the AMAB shows that a physician has experience treating patients with autism and has completed rigorous training and examinations. Because many doctors lack training and experience in treating patients with autism, the AMAB designation is often used by parents to help choose a doctor who is familiar with the different treatments and therapies available.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
