How to become a board-certified behavioral analyst in Texas

What does a certified behavioral analyst in Texas do?

In Texas, a certified behavioral analyst is a licensed professional who is fully qualified to treat people with mental health or behavioral conditions without being supervised. They are also eligible to supervise others, including assistants and technicians, and open a private practice.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean annual salary in Texas for substance use, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors, including certified behavioral analysts, was $55,780 in May 2023. This is slightly lower than the $61,240 mean salary across all occupations in Texas.

Steps to become a certified behavioral analyst in Texas

All certified behavioral analysts in Texas must follow a series of steps:

Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree

The first step to becoming a certified behavioral analyst is to earn a bachelor's degree in psychology, applied behavior analysis, or a related field such as education. Be sure to take courses in behavioral psychology and human behavior.

Step 2: Obtain an assistant behavioral analyst certification

While this step is not required, becoming a certified assistant behavioral analyst can help you work at the undergraduate level under the supervision of a fully certified and licensed behavioral analyst. You must submit proof of your education, complete a fieldwork requirement, and pass a four-hour examination with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). While this step is not required, obtaining job experience can help enhance your resume for later applications to graduate school.

Step 3: Earn a master's degree

To become a fully certified behavioral analyst in Texas, you must meet all requirements of the BACB. This includes earning a master's degree in applied behavior analysis or a related area of study. Most people pursue this advanced degree after spending some time working in the field.

Step 4: Become a certified behavioral analyst

Next, you must gain your behavioral analyst certification through the BACB. Texas law requires you to complete this certification before applying for a license. To qualify, you must submit proof of your education, meet a fieldwork requirement, and pass a four-hour exam.

Step 5: Get your Texas license

The last step is to obtain your Texas license as a certified behavioral analyst through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. You can apply online or by mail and do not need to undergo any additional testing or other requirements. In some cases, the department may request a copy of your college transcripts or certification exam results. Once approved, you can print an online verification and start working right away. Note that you must renew your Texas license every two years.