February is Black History Month, a time to honor the contributions, strengths, and triumphs of Black and African American community members across the country. At Northwest ABA, we highlight the significant impact that Black BCBAs (Board-Certified Behavior Analysts) and Behavioral Technicians (BTs) have made in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
We recognize the importance of having BCBAs and BTs who reflect the diverse cultural backgrounds of the clients and families we serve. Studies show that children from historically marginalized communities, including Black and Brown children, often experience delays in autism diagnosis due to systemic barriers, which can impact access to early intervention and essential services such as speech therapy and ABA therapy. To promote greater representation and equitable access to care, we have compiled a list of organizations that highlight and support Black professionals in the field, showcasing their contributions to the individuals and families they serve.
Black Applied Behavior Analysts (BABA) Net
BABA’s mission is to promote, educate, empower, and disseminate Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) within the Black community. The goal is to increase the number of successful Black behavior analysts, both domestically and internationally, by supporting their development, leadership, and career endeavors. By doing so, BABA strengthens Black organizations, companies, and communities
Black Men in Behavior Analysis (BMBA)
BMBA is an organization dedicated to empowering, supporting, and amplifying the voices of Black men working in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
Dr. Sarah Williams:
Dr. Sarah Williams holds both a master’s and doctorate in ABA. She is a practicing BCBA-D who uses trauma-informed ABA to support Black families, both with and without a diagnosis. You can listen to and read about her work here:
Podcast Interview: Dr. Sarah Williams – Trauma-Informed ABA
Black Women in ABA
BWIBAAD aims to uplift and celebrate the diverse voices of Black women in behavior analysis, fostering a community of collaboration, growth, and equity through ongoing recognition and advocacy.
Website:https://bwibaad.org