Behavioral Therapist job description.
A Behavioral Therapist works with clients, often children with autism or behavioral challenges, to implement individualized treatment plans that build skills and reduce problem behaviors. They collect data, apply behavioral intervention techniques, and collaborate with families and supervising clinicians to support measurable progress toward treatment goals.
The Behavioral Therapist job description · $29
The full editable .docx — role summary, 8 worked responsibilities, qualifications, and skills, formatted for your letterhead. Delivered to your inbox within 24 hours — usually instantly.
Role: Behavioral Therapist Reports to: Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or Clinical Director
A Behavioral Therapist works with clients, often children with autism or behavioral challenges, to implement individualized treatment plans that build skills and reduce problem behaviors. They collect data, apply behavioral intervention techniques, and collaborate with families and supervising clinicians to support measurable progress toward treatment goals.
- Implement individualized behavior intervention plans under clinical supervision
- Collect and record data on client behavior and skill acquisition
- Use positive reinforcement and other evidence-based techniques during sessions
What's inside the document.
One-paragraph plain-English explanation of the role's outcome and scope.
8 responsibilities phrased the way the work is actually done.
4 qualifications a candidate must have to perform on day 30.
3 qualifications that would make a candidate excellent in year two.
5 skill chips you can copy directly into your ATS.
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or Clinical Director
A complete document set.
- Word document (.docx) — fully editable
- PDF — signature-ready
- Google Docs — one-click copy to your Drive
- 12 months of updates to this document
- Commercial-use licence for internal and client work
The work, not the title.
- Implement individualized behavior intervention plans under clinical supervision
- Collect and record data on client behavior and skill acquisition
- Use positive reinforcement and other evidence-based techniques during sessions
- Communicate progress and concerns with supervisors, families, and caregivers
- Adapt session plans based on client response and supervisor guidance
- Support clients in developing communication, social, and daily living skills
- Maintain accurate session notes and treatment documentation
- Participate in team meetings and ongoing training
Required — and what would make a candidate excellent.
- Associate's or bachelor's degree in psychology, education, or related field
- Current licensure/certification as required by state and employer
- Experience working with individuals with behavioral or developmental needs
- Strong observation and data-recording skills
- Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) credential
- Experience with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) methods
- Bilingual ability
Eight steps from download to publish.
- 01Open the Behavioral Therapist job description in Word or your one-click Google Docs copy.
- 02Replace placeholders for company name, reporting line, and location with your specifics.
- 03Tighten the summary to one paragraph that names the team's outcome, not just the role.
- 04Edit the responsibilities to match the actual scope of the seat — aim for 6 to 8 items, not 12.
- 05Separate required qualifications from preferred. Required is what a candidate must have to do the work on day 30; preferred is what would make them excellent in year two.
- 06Add salary range guidance using BLS, Payscale, or your own band data — do not copy generic figures.
- 07Have the hiring manager and one peer read it. Cut anything that wouldn't survive a candidate question.
- 08Publish to your ATS, intranet, and external careers page.
The right document at the right moment.
Use this Behavioral Therapist job description any time you are opening or reopening a seat at this level. The mid band sets the calibration — copy the document, tighten it to your specific scope, and circulate to the hiring panel before the first interview.
The reporting line (Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or Clinical Director) and skills list are starting points. Override either if your org structure or stack differs from the norm — the template is a draft, not a contract.
Honest answers before you download.
- What credential do most Behavioral Therapists hold?
- Many hold a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) credential and work under the supervision of a BCBA, though exact requirements vary by state and employer.
- What settings do Behavioral Therapists work in?
- Common settings include client homes, schools, clinics, and community-based programs.
Other documents in this neighbourhood.
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) designs and oversees applied behavior analysis (ABA) programs for individuals with autism or other developmental needs.
Behavior Technician
A behavior technician implements individualized behavior intervention plans under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), typically working with individuals with autism or developmental disabilities.
ABA Therapist
An ABA Therapist delivers one-on-one applied behavior analysis therapy to clients, typically children with autism, under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.
This Behavioral Therapist job description is a professionally drafted starting point for your hiring process and is not legal advice. Hiring practice varies by jurisdiction (e.g. pay-transparency laws differ across US states and AU jurisdictions). Adapt this document for your specific location and have employment counsel review any clauses you add before publishing. Salary varies by region, employer type, and experience. Reference BLS or current industry surveys for ranges. Full disclaimer.