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Jackson, Miss.—Effective immediately, those practicing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in the State without a proper license can expect a warning letter from the Mississippi Autism Board.
Since the Autism Board’s legislative inception in 2015, Board members have licensed 29 Behavior Analysts and two Assistant Behavior Analysts. Board members estimate some of those purporting to treat individuals on the Autism Spectrum using ABA therapy remain unlicensed in Mississippi. Many individuals receiving such therapy are from vulnerable populations.
ABA is a process involving the systematic application of interventions, such as positive reinforcement, based upon the principles of learning theory to improve socially significant behaviors among individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disorders. Studies have demonstrated many children with autism experience significant improvements in learning, reasoning, communication, and adaptability when they participate in high-quality ABA programs.
“The licensing system promulgated by the Autism Board is designed to protect those receiving treatment,” said Dr. James Moore, chairman of the Autism Board, which developed licensure requirements pursuant to Mississippi Code Section 73-75-1, et seq. Dr. Moore is also Program Coordinator of the Master’s Training Program in ABA at the University of Southern Mississippi.
“We want to be sure those who hold themselves out as being trained in Applied Behavior Analysis have the background and credentials to be practicing this kind of intensive therapy,” he said.
To be licensed in Mississippi as a Behavior Analyst, an applicant must possess at least a Master’s degree or its equivalency and a current, active certification by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc., as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst or Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral. Assistant Behavior Analysts must have a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalency and a current, active certification as a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst.
Applicants must also submit an application fee, university transcripts, and licenses, and undergo a criminal background check. Licenses are for three-year terms.
Pursuant to Mississippi Code Section 73-75-5, certain practitioners are not prevented or restricted from practicing ABA without a license. For example, licensed psychologists and certain family members or guardians of a recipient of therapy do not require a license from the Autism Board.
To learn more about the Mississippi Autism Board, or to access an application to become a licensed Behavior Analyst or Assistant Behavior Analyst, visit the Board’s website. Lists of those currently licensed as Behavior Analysts and Assistant Behavior Analysts are accessible here.
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The Mississippi Autism Board, established in 2015 by the Mississippi Legislature, consists of five (5) members appointed by the Governor and Lieutenant Governor. Board members include one (1) licensed psychologist practicing in the area of ABA, three (3) licensed behavior analysts, and one (1) non-licensed public member who is the family member of a recipient of ABA services to provide for the licensure and regulation of the practice of ABA.
The Board’s duties include, but are not limited to:
• Investigating and evaluating applications for individuals seeking licensure to practice ABA;
• Investigating allegations or practices potentially violating applicable law concerning the practice of ABA; and
• Adopting and revising, as necessary, rules and regulations related to the licensure and practice of ABA.
