The BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) supervision process is a vital part of the journey toward certification, but it’s not without its challenges. Many candidates encounter obstacles that make it difficult to stay on track. Below are some of the most common difficulties faced during BCBA supervision, along with strategies for overcoming them successfully.
1. Finding the Right Supervisor
One of the first challenges is finding a qualified supervisor who meets the BACB requirements and has the time to commit to supervision. The process of finding a supervisor can be daunting, especially in regions with limited resources.
Solution:
- Begin the search early by using the BACB Supervisor Directory, which allows filtering by location and credentials.
- Networking through local ABA conferences or social media groups can help connect with potential supervisors.
- Remote supervision options through specialized platforms provide more flexibility, especially if local resources are limited.
2. Balancing Supervision With Work and Other Commitments
Balancing the demands of supervised fieldwork with work, personal life, and other responsibilities can be overwhelming. It’s easy to fall behind on supervision hours or neglect documentation when juggling multiple commitments.
Solution:
- Create a structured schedule that allocates dedicated time for supervision activities, study, and self-care.
- Time management tools like Google Calendar or project management apps can help stay organized and ensure hours are tracked efficiently.
- Communication with the supervisor is key; keeping them informed about any potential scheduling conflicts helps stay on track.
3. Receiving Constructive Feedback
Receiving feedback, especially critical feedback, can sometimes feel discouraging. However, feedback is a necessary part of professional growth during the BCBA supervision process. Some candidates may struggle with accepting feedback or may not receive enough constructive feedback from their supervisor.
Solution:
- Remind yourself that feedback is meant to help improve. Actively seek feedback during supervision sessions and view it as an opportunity to enhance skills.
- If feedback feels insufficient, communicate with the supervisor and ask for specific examples of areas for improvement. This fosters a more open and productive supervisory relationship.
4. Managing Documentation
Keeping track of supervision hours and completing necessary documentation is crucial but can be tedious. Falling behind on documentation can lead to unnecessary stress and, in some cases, invalidate hours if not properly recorded.
Solution:
- Regularly update documentation rather than trying to catch up at the last minute. Using templates for supervision forms or apps designed for tracking hours can help streamline the process.
- Schedule weekly check-ins with the supervisor to ensure that documentation is accurate and up to date.
5. Dealing With Supervision Gaps or Interruptions
Sometimes, supervision may be interrupted due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a supervisor leaving their position or needing to relocate. These gaps in supervision can delay progress toward certification.
Solution:
- If a gap in supervision occurs, immediately seek an alternative supervisor. Staying proactive can minimize the time lost and maintain momentum.
- Keep all documentation up to date to ensure accurate records of completed hours when transitioning to a new supervisor. ABA organizations or networks can be helpful in finding a new supervisor quickly.
Conclusion
While the BCBA supervision process is essential for certification, encountering challenges along the way is natural. Whether it’s difficulty finding a supervisor, balancing workload, or keeping up with documentation, solutions are available to overcome these obstacles. By staying organized, open to feedback, and proactive in seeking support, candidates can successfully navigate the supervision process and move closer to earning your BCBA certification.
