Passing the BCBA exam is only the beginning.

The First Year as a BCBA is a practical, experience-driven guide designed to support newly certified Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBAs) as they transition into independent clinical practice.

While graduate programs prepare clinicians to pass the exam, they often fall short in preparing them for the realities of professional practice. This book bridges that gap by addressing the challenges new clinicians face in their first year as a BCBA, including assessments, clinical decision-making, behavior intervention plans (BIPs), skill acquisition programming, supervision, ethical responsibilities, and professional growth.

Drawing from real-world experience across home, school, and community settings, this guide offers clear, actionable strategies grounded in applied behavior analysis practice. Each chapter combines evidence-based concepts with practical insight, helping new BCBAs develop confidence, improve clinical decision making, and navigate supervision and documentation with clarity and professionalism.

A unique feature of this book is the reflective section included in each chapter, "From My Desk as a BCBA," where the author integrates personal clinical experiences with best practices to provide mentorship-style guidance that many new clinicians wish they had during their first year.

This book is ideal for:

. Newly certified BCBAs and BCaBAs

. Graduate students preparing for professional practice

. Clinicians seeking guidance in BCBA supervision and leadership

. Agencies supporting early-career analysts

Focused on confidence, competence, and sustainability, The First Year as a BCBA serves as a trusted professional resource for clinicians seeking clarity and direction during one of the most important stages of their career.