What does a Behavioral Interventionist do?
Published 3 min read
A behavioral interventionist is a professional who works with individuals who have been diagnosed with a behavioral disorder. The interventionist will work to create a treatment plan that will help the individual to change their behavior. This may include working with the individual on social skills, communication skills, and problem-solving skills.
Behavioral Interventionist job duties include:
- Assess student behavior and needs in order to develop an appropriate behavior intervention plan
- Implement behavior intervention plan and track student progress
- Modify behavior intervention plan as needed based on student progress
- Communicate with students, parents, teachers, and other school staff about behavior interventions and progress
- Collaborate with other school staff to develop positive behavioral supports for students
- Monitor student compliance with school rules and consequences
- Keep detailed records of student behavior interventions
- Attend IEP meetings as needed to discuss student progress
- Perform other duties as assigned
Behavioral Interventionist Job Requirements
A Behavioral Interventionist (BI) works with individuals who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to help them improve their social skills and communication abilities. Most BIs have at least a bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, or a related field, and many have completed coursework or received training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Some states require BIs to be licensed or certified, although this is not always necessary. Experience working with individuals with ASD is also helpful.
Behavioral Interventionist Skills
- Patience
- Flexibility
- Creativity
- Organization
- Communication
- Observation
- Reporting
- Problem-solving
- Interpersonal skills
- Empathy
- Leadership
Related: Top Behavioral Interventionist Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Behavioral Interventionist
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to becoming a behavioral interventionist. However, there are some key steps that will help you on your way. First, it is important to have a strong foundation in behavior analysis. You should be able to understand and apply the basic principles of behavior. Second, you should have experience working with people who have behavioral challenges. This could include working as a teacher, counselor, or other professional who works with individuals with special needs. Third, you should be familiar with a variety of behavior intervention strategies and be able to select and implement the ones that would be most effective for each individual client. Finally, it is important to be patient, flexible, and creative in your approach to behavior intervention. Each individual is unique and will require a different approach. By being open to trying new things and being willing to adjust your approach as needed, you will be best prepared to help your clients reach their full potential.
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