When you become a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA), one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing your work setting. Should you work in a clinic surrounded by colleagues or take your expertise directly into clients’ homes? Each environment has unique benefits and challenges, and understanding these differences is key to finding a role that fits your lifestyle and career goals.
A BCBA is a professional trained in applied behaviour analysis (ABA) who works to improve socially significant behaviours in children and adults. From autism therapy to workplace behaviour consulting, BCBAs design treatment plans, collect and analyse data, and train carers. To practise, you need a master’s degree in behaviour analysis (or a related field), supervised experience, and successful completion of the BCBA certification exam.
Definition and Typical Work Environment
In-clinic BCBAs work in established facilities such as therapy centres, hospitals, or behavioural health clinics. These spaces are equipped with therapy rooms, observation areas, and resources to support multiple clients simultaneously.
Responsibilities and Client Interaction
In-clinic BCBAs typically supervise therapists, design treatment programmes, and conduct direct therapy with clients. They often work with a structured schedule and have access to administrative support.
Advantages of In-Clinic Settings
Definition and Typical Work Environment
In-home BCBAs deliver therapy directly in clients’ homes. This hands-on approach allows for individualised treatment in the environment where behaviours naturally occur.
Responsibilities and Client Interaction
These BCBAs often work independently, designing treatment plans, training parents, and implementing interventions on-site. Communication with the broader team typically happens virtually or through documentation.
Advantages of In-Home Settings
| Feature | In-Clinic | In-Home |
| Work Environment | Structured, resource-rich | Dynamic, client-focused |
| Schedule | Fixed hours | Flexible hours |
| Caseload | Higher client density | Fewer clients, more travel |
| Team Collaboration | Constant support | Independent work |
While salaries vary by region and experience, in-clinic BCBAs often have steady pay with benefits like health insurance and paid leave. In-home BCBAs may earn similar or slightly higher rates per hour but might need to account for travel time. Some organisations provide mileage reimbursement or flexible benefits to offset in-home challenges.
In-clinic roles often offer predictable hours, making it easier to plan your personal life. In-home positions may involve travel between multiple locations, which can be exhausting but allows for flexible scheduling. Consider your lifestyle preferences when deciding.
Clinics provide structured mentorship, regular team meetings, and easier access to workshops. In-home BCBAs may need to seek professional development independently but gain strong skills in autonomy and problem-solving.
Telehealth has bridged gaps for in-home care, allowing BCBAs to provide guidance remotely. Clinics may also use telehealth to extend services, creating hybrid models that combine in-clinic and virtual sessions.
