Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find work as a Behaviour Interventionist (BI) to meet the criteria of the ABA-A Degree Program?
Having some experience as a BI before applying to the ABA-A Degree program is essential for the following reasons:

Lets you know if working with children, youth and their families using behavioural strategies towards behaviour change is the right career path for you;
When accepted into the program, this practical experience will serve to enhance the content of the academic courses. The minimum number of hours of BI experience required for entrance into the program is 300 hours (which would represent a minimum of a three hour program twice a week for a year). The rate of pay would depend on level of experience and is typically somewhere between $15.00 - $20.00/ hour.

BI’s work in one of two settings: agency-based program and/ or home-based program. It is strongly recommended that when you contact any of these settings, you make it clear that you are going to make at least a year’s commitment.

1. You can contact any of the agency-based programs listed below to find out if the agency is hiring and training new BI’s. Please note that this is not a complete list of agencies providing services to families in the Lower Mainland.

 - ABA Learning Centre
 - Monarch House Autism Centre
 - Family Centred Practices Group
 - Laurel Behaviour Support Services
 - Coast Behaviour Analysts
 - The Children’s Foundation

2. You could check “Craig’s List” on-line or the Job Board at Capilano University http://www.capilanou.ca/services/career/student-employment/Job-Boards/, to find out if there is any home-based program needing new BI’s for their team.

In order to have a better training experience, it is recommended that students look for opportunities where they can receive mentorship from a well-qualified behaviour consultant who will provide regular feedback/ training. If possible, students should look for home teams that are supervised by a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) who will be available to overlap the student on a monthly basis (at least). If this is not the case, students should ask what on-going training/ support is available and make sure that there will be appropriate opportunities for skill development. If students are unsure, they are encouraged to contact the program coordinator for a second opinion.

What should I provide when I contact an agency-based or home-based program for a BI position?
You should prepare a cover letter that indicates your interest in working as a BI. Your cover letter should reflect that you have done some “homework” and that you do have a basic understanding of what ABA is and why it is a sound evidence-based treatment approach for autism. Be clear that while you may not have experience as a BI, you are prepared to make a year’s commitment to agency and/ or family. You could also indicate that you are interested in the ABA-A degree program at Capilano University.

You should also include a resume that outlines your educational and work experience.

Finally, a recent Criminal Records Check will be required.