Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has been effectively implemented within Therapeutic Consultation services to support a wide range of individuals, including those with psychological impairments.
In accordance with BACB Ethics Code 1.05 – Practicing Within Scope of Competence, behavior analysts practice only within their identified scope of competence. They engage in new professional areas (e.g., with new populations or procedures) only after obtaining and documenting appropriate study, training, supervised experience, consultation, and/or co-treatment from competent professionals. Otherwise, they refer or transition services to an appropriate professional.
Given this, here are some of the recommendations we would propose to strengthen behavioral supports and align with evidence-based practices within Community Psychiatric Support and Treatment (CPST)
Section 3.1.2: Include Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) as an explicitly recognized evidence-based practice within assessment, service planning and implementation.
Section 3.2: Add language supporting referral for Applied Behavior Analysis services for individuals whose needs would be best met through behavior analytic intervention and programming.
Section 3.3.1: Expand service delivery training to include DBHDS-approved behavior analytic training focused on function-based treatment, Applied Behavior Analysis, and Positive Behavior Support planning, ensuring continuity of appropriate and effective services as individuals transition into the adult system, where Therapeutic Consultation remains a primary mode of support.
Section 3.3.2: Incorporate Trauma-Informed Clinical Behavior Analysis as a recommended framework to ensure compassionate, contextually sensitive, and evidence-based service delivery.