What to Look for When Contracting a BCBA for Your Residential Home or Day Program
We decided to ask ChatGPT about what residential homes and day programs should look for when bringing a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) into their homes and programs. To our surprise, the list was fairly close to what we’d recommend asking! We made a few adjustments to the list of questions we recommend asking a BCBA before contracting for your home or program.
Key Areas to Explore When Interviewing a BCBA
1. Residential Experience
Have you worked in group homes or 24/7 care settings before?
What populations have you supported (e.g., autism, intellectual disabilities, dual diagnoses, trauma)?
How do you approach the unique demands of residential care?
2. Behavior Assessment & Crisis Management
What assessment tools do you use in residential and day program environments?
How do you address high-intensity behaviors like aggression or self-injury?
What’s your approach to crisis prevention and response—especially with a trauma-informed lens?
How do you maintain safety without leaning on restrictive practices?
3. Staff Training & Support
How do you train DSPs to implement behavior plans effectively?
What’s your strategy for keeping plans consistent across shifts?
How do you promote staff engagement and reduce burnout?
4. Data Collection & Progress Tracking
What data systems work well with busy residential staff?
How do you ensure accurate and consistent data collection?
How often do you review data and adjust plans?
5. Collaboration with Other Professionals
How do you work alongside doctors, therapists, and case managers?
Have you integrated behavior plans with medical or psychiatric treatment plans before?
Are you familiar with IEPs, 504s, or relevant regulatory requirements?
6. Ethics, Advocacy & Compliance
How do you ensure all interventions follow BACB and local ethical standards?
How do you advocate for residents’ rights, especially around dignity and autonomy?
What’s your response when pressured to use restrictive or punitive measures?
7. Availability & Support
What’s your protocol for after-hours behavioral concerns?
How often are you on-site versus remote?
What’s your typical response time in a crisis?
8. Pricing & Logistics
How do you structure your services—how many hours per month, etc?
Are you familiar with funding options like insurance, Medicaid waivers, or grants?
Do you offer ongoing support, and what does your contract typically include?
Curious how the Burgos Behavior team answers these questions? Find out here:
Click for Our Interview Answers
If you’re looking for a fit for your residential home, let’s talk. Together, we can build a partnership that empowers your staff, supports your residents, and takes your facility to the next level.
You can call or text us at 209-457-7154, email us at chelsea@burgosbehavior.com, or book a time to talk by clicking here: Book A Call
