Behavior Therapist

San Bruno Park School District

BEHAVIOR THERAPIST

Overview

Under the direction of the Director of Student Services and/or Mental Health Coordinator, provides educationally related behavior therapy services to students in the general education population, as well as those receiving special education services in accordance with the student's Individualized Education Plan (IEP). The Behavior Therapist may work independently with students on a one-to-one basis or in group settings, train Behavioral Therapy Assistants, provide staff and parent trainings, develop, plan and assess behavioral programs, collaborate with staff and parents to develop classroom management systems, and develop and supervise individual and district wide and/or site based behavior plans.

Responsibilities:

• Implement student interventions founded on principals of applied behavior analysis (ABA) to include Discrete Trail Training (DTT), Integrated Play Groups, Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS), or other educationally based methodologies deemed appropriate by the District

• Assess, develop, implement, and supervise implementation of appropriate behavior intervention plans relative to students who are experiencing social and/or emotional difficulties

• With proper training, assist school psychologists in assessments for autism, behavior, and mental health needs

• Respond to crisis situations when appropriate

• Provide short term direct individual and group based behavior therapy and social skills facilitation using a variety of strategies in order to develop individualized programs and training for staff and parents

• Monitor and evaluate student progress and behavior as it relates to behavioral systems

• Collaborate with case managers regarding the children's programming and progress, and collect data for progress reports to assist students in meeting their IEP

• Prepare summary of behavior progress and attend IEP meetings as appropriate

• Consult with school personnel, parents, and representatives of community services or agencies, as necessary, on student behavioral issues and student progress

• Train targeted staff on various topics, such as data collection methods, behavior management interventions and systems, positive behavior support plans etc. Includes 1-2 times weekly individual observation and consultation with BTAs for purposes of training and maintenance of service quality, as well as weekly group trainings

• Provide individual and group parent and staff training on positive behavior support strategies

• Design forms for data collection and progress monitoring

• Attend workshops, conference to keep up with current research and strategies

• Adhere to the rules of confidentiality and code of ethics

• Assist in upholding and enforcing school rules, administrative regulations and District policies

• Perform related duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Knowledge of:

• Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis, including Discrete Trial Training (DTT), Integrated Playgroups, Picture Exchange Communications (PECS)

• Positive behavior support strategies including Positive Environments Network of Trainers (PENT) and/or other evidenced based behavior intervention protocols.

• Crisis Communication including the use of physical management

• Health and safety regulations

• Child development and clinical interventions for students and families.

• Codes, laws, rules and regulations related to California Education Code.

• Case management and effective record-keeping practices and procedures

• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy

• Established procedures, district organization, operations, policies and objectives

Ability to:

• Design behavioral assessments, interventions and written plans

• Communicate with persons of diverse backgrounds, knowledge and/or skills

• Communicate effectively, tactfully and persuasively, orally and in writing using correct English, grammar, spelling, punctuation

• Write positive behavior support plans and professional data based reports

• Organize and provide leadership as well as participate as a team member

• Schedule a number of activities, meetings; gather, collate and/or classify data; and flexibility in working with others in a variety of circumstances

• Modify curriculum effectively to meet the student's needs

• Problem-solve and to collaborate with a wide variety of IEP team members

• Provide consultation to general and special education staff, parents and students

• Maintain effective working relationships with parents, students, staff and community agencies

• Maintain accurate records and files and work confidentially with discretion

• Maintain professional boundaries including no conflict of interest

Personal Qualities:

• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills

• Present a professional image appropriate to the work assignment

• Commitment to professional responsibility, high standards and academic excellence

• Willingness to be flexible and continuously improve performance

• An engaging, positive, high-energy style of teaching and interaction.

• An interest in working and helping students with autism and related special needs.

Education, Training and Experience

• Master's degree in applied behavioral sciences, psychology, education or other related fields

• BCBA certified or in process

• Minimum of two years experience working with students using applied behavior analysis

• Experience in conducting and implementing behavior support in plans in classroom settings

• Possession of a valid California driver's license

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Work Year: 186 Days, Regular School Year

Salary: Classified Salary Schedule

Benefits: Generous Medical/Vision and Dental plans above salary

Requirements / Qualifications

Requirements / Qualifications