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Chapter 246-805 WAC

Last Update: 5/17/24

APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS

WAC Sections

HTMLPDF246-805-010Definitions.
HTMLPDF246-805-025Department approval of national accredited professional credentialing entities.
LICENSED BEHAVIOR ANALYST
HTMLPDF246-805-100Licensed behavior analystApplication requirements.
HTMLPDF246-805-110Licensed behavior analyst—Recognized educational programs.
HTMLPDF246-805-120Licensed behavior analyst—Required topics for classroom hours.
HTMLPDF246-805-130Licensed behavior analyst—Supervised experience.
LICENSED ASSISTANT BEHAVIOR ANALYST
HTMLPDF246-805-200Licensed assistant behavior analystApplication requirements.
HTMLPDF246-805-210Licensed assistant behavior analystRecognized educational programs.
HTMLPDF246-805-220Licensed assistant behavior analystRequired topics for classroom hours.
HTMLPDF246-805-230Licensed assistant behavior analystSupervised experience.
HTMLPDF246-805-240Licensed assistant behavior analystContinuing supervision.
HTMLPDF246-805-250Licensed assistant behavior analystSupervision disclosure.
BEHAVIOR TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION
HTMLPDF246-805-300Certified behavior technicianApplication requirements.
HTMLPDF246-805-310Behavior technician training program.
HTMLPDF246-805-320Certified behavior technicianTasks.
HTMLPDF246-805-325Certified behavior technicianDefinitions for continuing supervision.
HTMLPDF246-805-330Certified behavior technicianContinuing supervision.
HTMLPDF246-805-340Certified behavior technicianSupervision disclosure.
HTMLPDF246-805-400General continuing education requirements for an LBA and LABA.
HTMLPDF246-805-401Continuing education requirements for an LBA.
HTMLPDF246-805-402Continuing education requirements for an LABA.
HTMLPDF246-805-410Continuing competency requirements for a CBT.
HTMLPDF246-805-510Reciprocity.
HTMLPDF246-805-520Licensed behavior analystsTemporary license.
HTMLPDF246-805-990Applied behavior analysis fees and renewal cycle.
DISPOSITION OF SECTIONS FORMERLY CODIFIED IN THIS TITLE
246-805-020Supervision disclosure. [Statutory Authority: RCW 18.380.050 and 18.380.110. WSR 17-12-084, § 246-805-020, filed 6/5/17, effective 7/1/17.] Repealed by WSR 24-11-103, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276.


PDF246-805-010

Definitions.

The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly states otherwise:
(1) "ABA" means applied behavior analysis.
(2) "Accepted course sequence" means the verified course sequence set of courses that have been verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International, or similar course sequences verified by other organizations approved by the department, as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards.
(3) "Certified behavior technician" or "CBT" means a person certified under chapter 18.380 RCW.
(4) "Clinical supervisor" means:
(a) A supervisor in charge of an LABA or the treatment plan the LABA is administering; or
(b) A supervisor in charge of a CBT or the treatment plan the CBT is administering.
(5) "Department" means the Washington state department of health.
(6) "In good standing" means an active credential issued by the department of health without:
(a) Conditions;
(b) Current discipline;
(c) Pending discipline; or
(d) Restrictions on the practice of ABA by a competent authority.
(7) "Licensed assistant behavior analyst" or "LABA" means a person licensed under chapter 18.380 RCW.
(8) "Licensed behavior analyst" or "LBA" means a person licensed under chapter 18.380 RCW.
(9) "Professional credentialing entity" means a department approved national accredited professional credentialing entity as described in WAC 246-840-025.
(10) "Secretary" means the secretary of the department of health or the secretary's designee.
(11) "Trainee" means:
(a) A person who is obtaining supervised experience as an LBA as described in WAC 246-805-130; or
(b) A person who is obtaining supervised experience as a LABA as described in WAC 246-805-230; or
(c) A person who is participating in a behavior technician training program described in WAC 246-805-310.
(12) "Training program supervisor" means:
(a) A supervisor in charge of an LBA who is obtaining supervised experience as described in WAC 246-805-130; or
(b) A supervisor in charge of a LABA trainee who is obtaining supervised experience as described in WAC 246-805-230; or
(c) A supervisor in charge of a CBT trainee during a certified behavior analyst training program as described in WAC 246-805-310.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-010, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.380 RCW, RCW 18.122.050 and 43.70.250. WSR 17-08-018, § 246-805-010, filed 3/27/17, effective 4/27/17.]



PDF246-805-025

Department approval of national accredited professional credentialing entities.

(1) A national accredited professional credentialing entity is an entity which offers certifications and registrations to professional practitioners of applied behavior analysis.
(2) National accredited professional credentialing entities that provide proof of meeting the requirements described in this section meet the requirements for approval by the department.
(a) Certifications and registrations that meet or exceed current qualifications for licensure of ABA practitioners set in RCW 18.380.050(1).
(b)(i) Certifications equivalent to the LBA credential must have requirements that meet or exceed the current qualifications of WAC 246-805-100 (2)(b) and continuing education requirements that meet or exceed the requirements of WAC 246-805-401 (2) through (4).
(ii) Certifications equivalent to the LABA credential must have certification requirements that meet or exceed the current qualification of WAC 246-805-200 (3)(b) and continuing education requirements that meet or exceed the requirements of WAC 246-805-402 (2) through (4).
(iii) Certifications or registrations equivalent to the CBT credential must have requirements that meet or exceed WAC 246-805-300 (4)(b).
(c) Current accreditation by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-025, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24.]



LICENSED BEHAVIOR ANALYST

PDF246-805-100

Licensed behavior analystApplication requirements.

An applicant for initial licensure as an LBA shall submit the following to the department:
(1) Fees and a completed application for the license; and
(2) Proof of:
(a) Current certification equivalent to a licensed behavior analyst from a professional credentialing entity. Verification must be sent directly to the department from the professional credentialing entity; or
(b) Meeting the requirements in RCW 18.380.050 (1)(a) including:
(i) Graduation from a recognized master's or doctorate degree program that meets the requirements of WAC 246-805-110. An official transcript must be provided as evidence of the degree required;
(ii) Successful completion of a minimum of 225 classroom hours of graduate level instruction in behavior analysis topics described in WAC 246-805-120. An official transcript must be provided as evidence of the course work required;
(iii) Successful completion of a supervised experience requirement under WAC 246-805-130; and
(iv) Successful completion of a national examination for the equivalent of an LBA from a professional credentialing entity as meeting the requirement in RCW 18.380.050 (1)(iv).
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-100, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.380 RCW, RCW 18.122.050 and 43.70.250. WSR 17-08-018, § 246-805-100, filed 3/27/17, effective 4/27/17.]



PDF246-805-110

Licensed behavior analyst—Recognized educational programs.

The department shall accept a master's or doctorate degree towards initial licensure requirements for an LBA that meets the following:
(1) The degree is in a subject listed in RCW 18.380.050 (1)(a); and
(2) The degree is awarded from an institution accredited by the council for higher education accreditation, the United States Department of Education, or a similar accrediting institution approved by the department.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-110, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24.]



PDF246-805-120

Licensed behavior analyst—Required topics for classroom hours.

(1) An applicant for initial licensure as an LBA shall show completion of an approved education program with a minimum of 225 classroom hours of instruction in behavior analysis content areas as follows:
(a) Fifteen hours of ethical considerations;
(b) Forty-five hours of definitions and characteristics and principles, processes, and concepts;
(c) Twenty hours of measurement of behavior and displaying and interpreting behavioral data;
(d) Twenty hours of experimental evaluation of interventions;
(e) Thirty-five hours of behavioral assessment and selecting intervention outcomes and strategies;
(f) Forty-five hours of behavior change procedures and systems support; and
(g) Forty-five hours in behavior analysis content on a discretionary basis.
(2) Classroom hours under this section may be taken in addition to the applicant's degree program if the hours are part of an accepted course sequence.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-120, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24.]



PDF246-805-130

Licensed behavior analyst—Supervised experience.

(1) An LBA trainee applying for an initial LBA license for an initial LBA license shall show completion of a minimum of 1,500 hours of supervised experience in behavior analysis according to this section.
(2) The LBA trainee must be enrolled in or have completed a recognized education program and topics required in WAC 246-805-120 according to this chapter prior to beginning the required supervised experience.
(3)(a) The LBA trainee shall complete their supervised experience within five years of the start date of the supervised experience.
(b) Supervision must be conducted at least every two weeks.
(c) When actively participating in a supervised experience, the LBA trainee shall participate in at least 10 hours and no more than 30 hours per week.
(4) A minimum of five percent of the total hours accrued in each month must be under the supervision of a training program supervisor who meets the qualifications of this section.
(5) A training program supervisor for an LBA trainee shall:
(a)(i) Hold an active license in good standing as an LBA with at least one year of full-time equivalency practice; or
(ii) Hold a current certification equivalent to a LBA from a professional credentialing entity; and
(b) Not be related to, subordinate to, or employed by the LBA trainee during the supervised experience period. Employment does not include compensation received by the training program supervisor from the LBA trainee for supervision services.
(6) Supervision must include:
(a) Observing and providing feedback to the LBA trainee on their behavior analytic activities with a client in the natural environment;
(b) Observing the LBA trainee in real time by web camera, videoconferencing, or similar means when the training program supervisor is not physically present; and
(c) Supervising in small groups of up to six LBA trainees for no more than half of the total supervision required in subsection (3) of this section.
(7) The LBA trainee shall perform the following activities during the supervised experience:
(a) Directly implementing behavioral programs delivering therapeutic and instructional procedures, which may not exceed 50 percent of the total accrued experience hours; and
(b) Designing and systematically monitoring behavioral programs, naturalistic observation, staff and caregiver training, researching literature related to the program, and conducting assessments related to the need for behavioral intervention.
(8) Supervised experience must include the following content areas:
(a) Ethics and professional conduct;
(b) Measurement;
(c) Experimental design;
(d) Behavior-change considerations;
(e) Fundamental elements of behavior change;
(f) Behavior-change procedures;
(g) Behavior-change systems;
(h) Problem identification;
(i) Assessment;
(j) Intervention;
(k) Implementation, management and supervision;
(l) Philosophical assumptions of behavior analysis;
(m) Verbal operants; and
(n) Respondent and operant conditioning.
(9) The training program supervisor and LBA trainee shall develop a supervision plan before the LBA trainee begins performing any behavior analytic tasks. The supervision plan must be maintained in the LBA trainee's file for seven years after completion of supervised experience. The supervision plan must include:
(a) Types of duties and responsibilities the LBA trainee will perform;
(b) Dates, time and duration of supervision;
(c) Type of supervision, as described in subsection (6) of this section;
(d) Brief description of supervision activities; and
(e) Signatures of both the training program supervisor and LBA trainee.
(10) A supervised experience under this section may be completed as part of or in addition to the LBA trainee's master's or doctorate degree program.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-130, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24.]



LICENSED ASSISTANT BEHAVIOR ANALYST

PDF246-805-200

Licensed assistant behavior analystApplication requirements.

An applicant for initial licensure as an LABA shall submit the following to the department:
(1) Fees and a completed application for the license.
(2) The name of the clinical supervisor as proof of ongoing supervision that meets the requirements in RCW 18.380.050(2); and
(3) Proof of:
(a) Current certification equivalent to the licensed assistant behavior analyst from a professional credentialing entity. Verification must be sent directly to the department from the professional credentialing entity; or
(b) Meeting the requirements in RCW 18.380.050 (1)(b):
(i) Graduation from a recognized bachelor's degree program under WAC 246-805-210. An official transcript must be provided as evidence of the degree required;
(ii) Proof of successful completion of a minimum of 135 classroom hours of instruction in behavior analysis topics described in WAC 246-805-220. An official transcript must be provided as evidence of the course work required; and
(iii) Proof of successful completion of a supervised experience requirement under WAC 246-805-230.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-200, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.380 RCW, RCW 18.122.050 and 43.70.250. WSR 17-08-018, § 246-805-200, filed 3/27/17, effective 4/27/17.]



PDF246-805-210

Licensed assistant behavior analystRecognized educational programs.

The department will accept a bachelor's degree in any discipline from an institution accredited by the council for higher education accreditation or United States Department of Education as meeting the requirements under RCW 18.380.050 (1)(b)(i) for applicants applying for an LABA credential.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.380 RCW, RCW 18.122.050 and 43.70.250. WSR 17-08-018, § 246-805-210, filed 3/27/17, effective 4/27/17.]



PDF246-805-220

Licensed assistant behavior analystRequired topics for classroom hours.

(1) An applicant for initial licensure as an LABA shall complete a minimum of 135 classroom hours of instruction in specific behavior analysis topics from a recognized educational institution in compliance with WAC 246-805-210. Topics must include the following content areas and the minimum number of hours specified:
(a) Ten hours of ethical considerations;
(b) Forty hours of definitions and characteristics and principles, processes, and concepts;
(c) Twenty hours of experimental evaluation of interventions, measurement of behavior, and displaying and interpreting behavioral data;
(d) Twenty-five hours of behavioral assessment and selecting intervention outcomes and strategies; and
(e) Forty hours of behavior change procedures and systems support.
(2) Classroom hours under this section may be taken in addition to the applicant's bachelor's degree program if the hours are part of an accepted course sequence.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-220, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.380 RCW, RCW 18.122.050 and 43.70.250. WSR 17-08-018, § 246-805-220, filed 3/27/17, effective 4/27/17.]



PDF246-805-230

Licensed assistant behavior analystSupervised experience.

(1) Prior to submitting an application to the department, an LABA trainee applying for initial licensure for an LABA license shall complete a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised experience in behavior analysis.
(2) The LABA trainee must be enrolled in or have completed the requirements contained in WAC 246-805-220 to be eligible to begin the required supervised experience as an LABA trainee.
(3)(a) The LABA trainee shall complete his or her supervised experience within five years of the start date of the supervised experience.
(b) When actively participating in a supervised experience, the LABA trainee shall participate in supervised experience at least 10 hours and no more than 30 hours per week.
(c) At least five percent of the total monthly hours of supervised experience must be under the supervision defined in subsection (5) of this section.
(d) Supervision must be conducted at least every two weeks.
(4) A person is qualified to be a training program supervisor for a LABA trainee if the person:
(a) Holds an active license in good standing as an LBA with at least one year of full-time equivalency practice; or
(b) Holds a current certification equivalent to a LBA from a professional credentialing entity; and
(c) Is not related to, subordinate to, or employed by the LABA trainee during the supervised experience period. Employment does not include compensation received by the training program supervisor from the LABA trainee for supervision services.
(5) Supervision must include:
(a) Observing and providing feedback to the LABA trainee on his or her behavior analytic activities with a client in the natural environment;
(b) Observing the LABA trainee in real time by web camera, videoconferencing, or similar means when the training program supervisor is not physically present; and
(c) Supervising in small groups of up to six LABA trainees for no more than half of the total supervision required in subsection (3) of this section.
(6) The LABA trainee shall perform the following activities during the supervised experience:
(a) Directly implementing behavioral programs delivering therapeutic and instructional procedures, which may not exceed 50 percent of the total accrued experience hours; and
(b) Designing and systematically monitoring behavioral programs, naturalistic observation, staff and caregiver training, researching literature related to the program, and conducting assessments related to the need for behavioral intervention.
(7) Supervised experience must include the following content areas:
(a) Ethics and professional conduct;
(b) Measurement;
(c) Experimental design;
(d) Behavior-change considerations;
(e) Fundamental elements of behavior change;
(f) Behavior-change procedures;
(g) Behavior-change systems;
(h) Problem identification;
(i) Assessment;
(j) Intervention;
(k) Implementation, management and supervision;
(l) Philosophical assumptions of behavior analysis;
(m) Verbal operants; and
(n) Respondent and operant conditioning.
(8) The training program supervisor and LABA trainee shall develop a supervision plan before the LABA trainee begins performing any behavior analytic tasks. The supervision plan must be maintained in the LABA trainee's file for seven years after completion of supervised experience. The supervision plan shall include:
(a) Types of duties and responsibilities the LABA trainee will perform;
(b) Dates, time and duration of supervision;
(c) Type of supervision, as described in subsection (5) of this section;
(d) Brief description of supervision activities; and
(e) Signatures of both the training program supervisor and LABA trainee.
(9) A supervised experience under this section may be completed as part of or in addition to the LABA trainee's bachelor's degree program.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-230, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.380 RCW, RCW 18.122.050 and 43.70.250. WSR 17-08-018, § 246-805-230, filed 3/27/17, effective 4/27/17.]



PDF246-805-240

Licensed assistant behavior analystContinuing supervision.

(1) A LABA shall work under the supervision of an LBA or individual otherwise qualified to practice in ABA consistent with RCW 18.380.030(1) for each client receiving ABA services.
(2) A clinical supervisor shall:
(a) Hold an active license in good standing as a Washington state LBA or be otherwise qualified to practice in ABA consistent with RCW 18.380.030(1); and
(b) Be responsible and accountable for the services an LABA provides to clients.
(3) The LABA and the clinical supervisor shall develop a supervision agreement before the LABA begins to provide any behavior analytic tasks. A copy of the supervision agreement must be maintained by both the clinical supervisor and LABA. The supervision agreement must include, but not be limited to:
(a) Duties and responsibilities the LABA will perform;
(b) Mechanism for reporting caseload to the clinical supervisor;
(c) Type and frequency of supervision; and
(d) Signature of both the clinical supervisor and supervisee.
(4) The clinical supervisor shall review the LABA's progress with the LABA at least every six months.
(5) The supervision shall include:
(a) At least one face-to-face contact per month with the LABA. Face-to-face contact may occur in person, on-site, or by videoconferencing, and may include small group interaction; and
(b) Visually observing the LABA with clients on a quarterly basis for at least one treatment session. Observation may occur in person or by videoconferencing.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-240, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.380.050 and 18.380.110. WSR 17-12-084, § 246-805-240, filed 6/5/17, effective 7/1/17.]



PDF246-805-250

Licensed assistant behavior analystSupervision disclosure.

Prior to providing services to a client, a LABA shall disclose in writing to the client, or client's parent or legal guardian, the supervisor's name and contact information.
(1) Documentation of disclosure must be maintained in the client file and a copy given to the client or the client's parent or legal guardian, if applicable.
(2) The supervision disclosure must be updated and shared with the client, or the client's parent or legal guardian if applicable, as soon as practical whenever the LABA has a new supervisor. 
(3) The supervision disclosure must be reviewed at least once per year to determine if it needs to be updated. The disclosure must be shared with the client or client's parent or guardian if updated. 
(4) The client file must include documentation to reflect each time it is reviewed.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-250, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24.]



BEHAVIOR TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

PDF246-805-300

Certified behavior technicianApplication requirements.

An applicant for initial certification as a CBT shall submit the following to the department:
(1) Fees and a completed application for the certification;
(2) Proof of being at least 18 years of age;
(3) Proof of a high school diploma or equivalent;
(4) Proof of:
(a) Current behavior technician registration or certification from a professional credentialing entity. Verification must be sent directly to the department from the accredited professional credentialing entity; or
(b) Successful completion of a behavior technician training program outlined in WAC 246-805-310 to include:
(i) Classroom, online, or supervisor-led instruction with the content outlined in WAC 246-805-310 (4)(a);
(ii) Experiential learning as outlined in WAC 246-805-310 (4)(b); and
(iii) Evaluation and assessment as outlined in WAC 246-805-310 (4)(c).
(5) The name of the clinical supervisor as proof of ongoing supervision that meets the requirements in RCW 18.380.050(2).
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-300, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.380 RCW, RCW 18.122.050 and 43.70.250. WSR 17-08-018, § 246-805-300, filed 3/27/17, effective 4/27/17.]



PDF246-805-310

Behavior technician training program.

An applicant who does not hold a registration or certification from a professional credentialing entity under WAC 246-805-300 (4)(a) may qualify for a CBT credential by completing a behavior technician training program meeting the requirements described in this section.
(1) Behavior technician training programs meeting the requirements described in this section are approved by the secretary.
(2) The behavior technician training program must be affiliated with an agency, business or individual that:
(a) Has a supervisor within sight and hearing and available for immediate intervention when the trainee is working with clients.
(b) Has a supervisor who is:
(i) An LBA who holds a current and active credential in good standing with at least one year of full-time experience; or an individual who holds a certification equivalent to an LBA from a professional credentialing entity and has at least one year of full-time experience;
(ii) Responsible for the conduct of the trainee at all times when working with clients under his or her supervision; and
(iii) Responsible for the training program, who will be referred to as the "training program supervisor."
(3) The training program supervisor shall:
(a) Not be related to, subordinate to, or employed by the trainee during the training period. Employment does not include compensation received by the supervisor from the trainee for supervision services.
(b) Be responsible for determining the content of the training, adherence to the training, and ascertaining the competency of the trainee.
(c) Supervise the trainee until the trainee demonstrates entry level competency, as provided in subsection (4)(c) of this section.
(4) The behavior technician training program must be at least 40 hours in duration and include:
(a) Classroom, online or supervisor-led instruction in the following content areas:
(i) Measurement;
(ii) Assessment;
(iii) Skill acquisition;
(iv) Behavior reduction;
(v) Documentation and reporting; and
(vi) Professional conduct and scope of practice.
(b) Experiential learning that includes:
(i) Practicing techniques in a simulated situation incorporating content areas in (a) of this subsection; and
(ii) Observing and performing behavior analysis services with clients incorporating content areas in (a) of this subsection.
(c) Evaluation and assessment by the training program supervisor of the trainee's demonstrated entry level competency in the knowledge and skills under (a) and (b) of this subsection. The supervisor evaluation and assessment must include verification of classroom training content.
(5) After the trainee demonstrates entry level competency, as provided in subsection (4)(c) of this section, supervision may be provided by any behavior analyst who meets the requirements of subsection (2)(a) and (b)(i) and (ii) of this section. An applicant from an out-of-state program may not provide ABA services until a credential has been issued.
(6) Prior to or at the time of the first visit with a client, the supervisor shall ensure that the client or client's parent or legal guardian is notified in writing that the trainee is participating in a behavior technician training program. The notification must be signed by the client or client's parent or legal guardian and placed in the client's file.
(7) A trainee shall complete the training program and submit an application to the department on a form provided by the department within one year of starting the training program.
(8) Documentation of all behavior analysis training, supervision, duties, and responsibilities of the trainee must be completed and signed by the training program supervisor and the trainee, and placed in the trainee's personnel file. Copies of the documentation will be maintained by both the trainee and the training program supervisor for a minimum of four years or any other standard required by law, whichever is longer.
(9) Upon successful completion of the training program requirements, the training program supervisor will sign an attestation that the trainee has completed the behavior technician training requirements.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-310, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.380 RCW, RCW 18.122.050 and 43.70.250. WSR 17-08-018, § 246-805-310, filed 3/27/17, effective 4/27/17.]



PDF246-805-320

Certified behavior technicianTasks.

(1) A CBT shall not:
(a) Initiate or implement a treatment program with a client until the client has been evaluated and a written treatment and instructional program has been prepared by an LBA, LABA, or individual otherwise qualified to practice in ABA consistent with RCW 18.380.030(1);
(b) Independently perform a client assessment or evaluation, but may assist in the process under the direction of an LBA or LABA; and
(c) Independently design or modify client treatment plans or instructional programs.
(2) A CBT shall:
(a) Monitor the need for reassessment and report changes in status that may warrant reassessment or referral by or under the direction of an LBA, LABA, or individual otherwise qualified to practice in ABA consistent with RCW 18.380.030(1); and
(b) Immediately discontinue and notify the supervising LBA, LABA, or individual otherwise qualified to practice in ABA consistent with RCW 18.380.030(1) about any treatment procedure that appears harmful to the client.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-320, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.380 RCW, RCW 18.122.050 and 43.70.250. WSR 17-08-018, § 246-805-320, filed 3/27/17, effective 4/27/17.]



PDF246-805-325

Certified behavior technicianDefinitions for continuing supervision.

The definitions in this section apply to WAC 246-805-330 unless the context clearly states otherwise:
(1) "Close, ongoing clinical supervision" means to perform procedures or tasks that are performed under a clinical supervisor's overall direction and control. The clinical supervisor must be accessible but is not required during the performance of the procedures or tasks.
(2) "Direct supervision and observation" means the clinical supervisor is providing direction and observation on-site or by videoconference.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-325, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24.]



PDF246-805-330

Certified behavior technicianContinuing supervision.

(1) A CBT shall work under close, ongoing supervision of a clinical supervisor for each client receiving ABA services.
(2) A clinical supervisor:
(a) Shall hold an active license in good standing as an LBA, LABA, or a license issued by this state permitting the individual to practice ABA consistent with RCW 18.380.030(1); and
(b) Is responsible for the conduct of the CBT at all times when working with clients under his or her supervision.
(3) The CBT and the clinical supervisor shall develop a supervision agreement before the CBT begins to provide any behavior analytic tasks. A copy of the supervision agreement must be maintained both by the supervisor and CBT. The supervision agreement must include, but not be limited to:
(a) Duties and responsibilities the CBT will perform;
(b) Type and frequency of supervision, as described in subsection (5) of this section; and
(c) Signature of both the clinical supervisor and CBT.
(4) The clinical supervisor shall review the CBT's progress with the CBT as necessary and document the progress at least every six months.
(5) The clinical supervisor shall:
(a) Meet in person with the CBT to provide guidance in working with new clients;
(b) Conduct at least two face-to-face contacts per month with the CBT. Face-to-face contact may occur in person, on-site or by videoconferencing.
(c) Provide direct supervision and observation for a minimum of five percent of the CBT's hours each month including:
(i) Observing the CBT at least once per month when the CBT is providing ABA services to clients; and
(ii) Observing the CBT with each client on his or her caseload at least once every three months.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-330, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.380 RCW, RCW 18.122.050 and 43.70.250. WSR 17-08-018, § 246-805-330, filed 3/27/17, effective 4/27/17.]



PDF246-805-340

Certified behavior technicianSupervision disclosure.

Prior to providing services to a client, a CBT shall disclose in writing the supervisor's name and contact information.
(1) Documentation of disclosure must be maintained in the client file and a copy given to the client or the client's parent or guardian, as applicable.
(2) The supervision disclosure must be updated and shared with the client, or the client's parent or guardian as applicable, as soon as practical whenever the CBT has a new training program or clinical supervisor. 
(3) The supervision disclosure must be reviewed at least once per year to determine if it needs to be updated. The disclosure must be shared with the client or client's parent or guardian if updated. 
(4) The client file must include documentation to reflect each time it is reviewed.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-340, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24.]



PDF246-805-400

General continuing education requirements for an LBA and LABA.

An LBA shall attest to completing the continuing education (CE) requirements in WAC 246-805-401 and an LABA shall attest to completing the CE requirements in WAC 246-805-402 as a condition of renewing the license every two years.
The general requirements are:
(1) Fifty minutes of CE contact time or direct instruction is equivalent to one CE hour.
(2) The CE hours must be obtained through one or more of the following:
(a) Courses from a college or university accredited by the United States Department of Education may meet all of the required CE hours.
(i) One academic semester credit is equivalent to 15 CE hours.
(ii) One academic quarter credit is equivalent to 10 CE hours.
(b) Courses from a CE provider.
(i) Courses from providers approved by a professional credentialing entity may meet all of the required CE hours.
(ii) Courses from providers not approved by a professional credentialing entity may meet no more than eight CE hours.
(c) Licensee-led instruction of a CE course.
(i) College or university instruction may meet no more than 16 CE hours.
(ii) Any other type of instruction may meet no more than eight CE hours.
(iii) Repeated instruction in the same course may only qualify for CE credit one time in a single CE reporting period.
(iv) Instruction must be related to applied behavior analysis.
(d) The following activities are eligible for up to eight CE hours and only count during the CE time period when the article was published or reviewed:
(i) Publication of an applied behavior analysis article in a peer-reviewed journal is equivalent to eight CE hours;
(ii) Completion of reviewing an applied behavior analysis article for a peer-reviewed journal is equivalent to one CE hour; or
(iii) Serving as an action editor of an applied behavior analysis article for a peer-reviewed journal is equivalent to one CE hour.
(3) An LBA and LABA shall comply with the requirements of chapter 246-12 WAC to include keeping records documenting attendance for four years; and shall provide CE documentation upon request. Acceptable documentation depends on the CE activity and includes:
(a) Course syllabus and transcript from college or university;
(b) Certificate or letter from a CE provider that includes the course topic and CE hours completed;
(c) Title, description, and dates of course of instruction on a letter from the academic institution or education provider;
(d) Copy of the final publication of article listing the credential holder as the author;
(e) Letter of attestation from the action editor reporting the credential holder's name as a reviewer of an applied behavior analysis article; or
(f) Editorial decision letter reporting the credential holder's name as an action editor of an applied behavior analysis article.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-400, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.380.110. WSR 18-10-016, § 246-805-400, filed 4/23/18, effective 5/24/18.]



PDF246-805-401

Continuing education requirements for an LBA.

Continuing education requirements for an LBA must be met every two years in one of the following ways:
(1) Maintaining certification from a professional credentialing entity that requires CE as part of certification; or
(2) Completing a minimum of 32 hours of CE related to the practice of applied behavior analysis.
(a) A minimum of 20 hours of activities must directly address:
(i) Behavior analytic skill development; and
(ii) Current practices in clinical practice of applied behavior analysis.
(b) At least four hours must pertain to professional ethics and boundaries of a behavior analyst.
(c) No more than eight hours may be in professional development activities that enhance the licensee's business practice as an LBA.
(3) In addition to the requirements in subsections (1) and (2) of this section, an LBA shall complete two hours of health equity CE every four years as described in WAC 246-12-800 through 246-12-830.
(4) All CE must meet the requirements in WAC 246-805-400.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-401, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24.]



PDF246-805-402

Continuing education requirements for an LABA.

Continuing education requirements for an LABA must be met every two years in one of the following ways:
(1) Maintaining certification from a professional credentialing entity that requires CE as part of certification; or
(2) Completing 20 hours of CE related to the practice of applied behavior analysis.
(a) A minimum of 10 hours of activities must directly address:
(i) Behavior analytic skill development; and
(ii) Current practices in clinical practice of applied behavior analysis.
(b) At least four hours must pertain to professional ethics and boundaries of a behavior analyst.
(c) No more than six hours may be in professional development activities that enhance the licensee's business practice as an LABA.
(3) In addition to the requirements in subsections (1) and (2) of this section, an LABA shall complete two hours of health equity CE every four years as described in WAC 246-12-800 through 246-12-830.
(4) All CE must meet the requirements in WAC 246-805-400.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-402, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24.]



PDF246-805-410

Continuing competency requirements for a CBT.

(1) A CBT shall attest to:
(a) Completing the continuing competency requirements in this section as a condition of renewing the certification; or
(b) Not currently working at the time of the renewal.
(2) A CBT shall complete continuing education or demonstrate continuing competency by either:
(a) Maintaining certification from a professional credentialing entity; or
(b) Within 90 days prior to renewal obtaining an assessment by an LBA or LABA or otherwise qualified supervisor on performance or demonstration of the following applied behavior analysis tasks:
(i) Measurement;
(ii) Assessment;
(iii) Skill acquisition;
(iv) Behavior reduction;
(v) Documentation and reporting; and
(vi) Professional conduct and scope of practice.
(3) A CBT who attests to not working at the time of renewal shall, within three months of obtaining employment as a CBT, obtain an assessment by the LBA or LABA or otherwise qualified supervisor as described in subsection (2)(b) of this section.
(4) A CBT shall comply with the requirements of WAC 246-12-170 through 246-12-240 and include keeping records documenting continuing competency compliance for four years and shall, upon request, provide documentation of meeting subsection (2) or (3) of this section. Documentation of meeting subsection (3) of this section must include documentation of the date the CBT started work as a CBT.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-410, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: RCW 18.380.110. WSR 18-10-016, § 246-805-410, filed 4/23/18, effective 5/24/18.]



PDF246-805-510

Reciprocity.

An ABA credential may be issued to an individual who holds a credential from another state if that state requires qualifications substantially equivalent to qualifications in Washington. To obtain a credential, an applicant shall submit to the department:
(1) Fees and an application for the license or certification;
(2) A verification form, or other equivalent document, from a state that requires qualifications substantially equivalent to Washington qualification that verifies the applicant is currently credentialed. The verification must show that the credential is active, unrestricted and is not subject to denial or issuance of a conditional or restricted credential; and
(3) Verification forms, or other equivalent documents, from all other states in which the applicant is currently, or was previously credentialed, that verifies the applicant was or is currently credentialed. The verifications must show that the credential has not been restricted and is not subject to denial or issuance of a conditional or restricted credential.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-510, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24.]



PDF246-805-520

Licensed behavior analystsTemporary license.

Temporary licenses are available for applicants who do not reside in Washington state seeking a temporary credential for licensed behavior analyst.
(1) A temporary license may be issued to an applicant who meets the following conditions:
(a) Holds an active, unrestricted credential to practice as a licensed behavior analyst issued by another state;
(b) Is not subject to denial of a credential or issuance of a conditional, restricted license or under pending investigation by a disciplinary authority; and
(c) There are no violations identified in the Washington criminal background check and the applicant meets all other licensure conditions including receipt by the department of a completed Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) fingerprint card.
(2) The temporary license allows the applicant to work in the state of Washington for 180 days from the date of issuance. The temporary license grants the applicant a license to practice within the full scope of practice of the licensed behavior analyst.
(3) A temporary license will not be renewed, reissued, or extended. A temporary license expires 180 days after the temporary license is issued.
(4) To receive a temporary license, the applicant shall submit to the department:
(a) Fees and a completed application for the temporary license;
(b) Verification from at least one state that the applicant is currently licensed. The verification must show licensure status.
(c) Verification forms from all other states in which the applicant is currently, or was previously licensed, that verifies the applicant was or is currently licensed and confirms licensure status.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-520, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24.]



PDF246-805-990

Applied behavior analysis fees and renewal cycle.

(1) Credentials in this section must be renewed every two years on the practitioner's birthday as provided in WAC 246-12-020 through 246-12-051.
(2) The following nonrefundable fees will be charged:
Title of Fee
Fee
Licensed behavior analyst
 
Initial application (original or reciprocity)
 
 
 
Application and initial license
$250.00
 
Active license renewal
 
 
 
Renewal
350.00
 
 
Late renewal penalty
175.00
 
Expired license reissuance
175.00
 
Temporary license
50.00
 
Duplicate license
10.00
 
Verification of license
25.00
Licensed assistant behavior analyst
 
Initial application (original or reciprocity)
 
 
 
Application and initial license
160.00
 
Active license renewal
 
 
 
Renewal
175.00
 
 
Late renewal penalty
90.00
 
Expired license reissuance
90.00
 
Duplicate license
10.00
 
Verification of license
25.00
Certified behavior technician
 
Application (original or reciprocity)
 
 
 
Application and initial license
95.00
 
Active license renewal
 
 
 
Renewal
150.00
 
 
Late renewal penalty
75.00
 
Expired license reissuance
75.00
 
Duplicate license
10.00
 
Verification of license
25.00
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.122.050, 18.380.050, 18.380.110, 43.70.110, 43.70.250, 2020 c 76, and 2021 c 276. WSR 24-11-103, § 246-805-990, filed 5/17/24, effective 6/17/24. Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.380 RCW, RCW 18.122.050 and 43.70.250. WSR 17-08-018, § 246-805-990, filed 3/27/17, effective 4/27/17.]