With a clear outline and consistent support from dedicated mentors, Inner Circle’s fieldwork program sets master’s degree students up for success to thrive as BCBAs providing ABA therapy for children with autism.
“Our goal is to ensure that every single technician who decides to pursue a career in ABA feels supported and confident that they will get a quality training experience and learn the skills that will enable them to become an amazing clinician,” said Sarah Varillas, BCBA, Inner Circle chief clinical officer.
The Inner Circle fieldwork program progressively integrates students into the day-to-day tasks and responsibilities of a BCBA while they work at an Inner Circle clinic. By gradually introducing students to new responsibilities and increasing autonomy over time, Inner Circle ensures students learn the necessary skills to make impactful decisions for their future clients – without feeling overwhelmed.
At every level of Inner Circle’s fieldwork program, students are mentored by dedicated and engaged BCBAs and clinical leaders who provide guidance and regular check-ins to assess progress and identify opportunities for improvement.
For example, a student in level two might help a BCBA prepare a treatment plan or sit in on a parent meeting, and then follow up with their supervisor on that experience and what they’ve learned. This helps prepare students for level three of the program, where they might participate in parent meetings and assist more readily in the assessment process under the supervision of a BCBA.
“We want to set students up for success by giving them a glimpse of what it will look like when they become a BCBA,” said Crystal Lissuzzo M.Ed., BCBA, LBA, Inner Circle clinical treatment director – NWOKC. “We integrate fieldwork students into the different responsibilities and tasks of a BCBA so they can get that first-hand experience and be prepared for when they’ll be doing these tasks on their own.”
Of course, being a fieldwork student also means eventually sitting for and passing the BCBA certification exam to officially become a BCBA. Inner Circle’s field work program takes this into account, with free testing resources available for all students sitting for their BCBA certification exam within six months.
From engaged mentors to real-life experience and resources to help students prepare for their certification exam, Inner Circle’s fieldwork program supports students along every step of their journey to becoming a fantastic BCBA.
Watch the video to hear real Inner Circle fieldwork students talk about their experience and explore open positions with us today >>