Spectrum Autism Services, LLC: Leadership Internship in Applied Behavior Analysis
Overview
Spectrum Autism Services, LLC is a mission-driven provider of clinic-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, dedicated to serving children with autism in their most formative years. Services focus on fostering independence and connection by increasing each child’s communication, social, and adaptive skills through 1:1 therapy sessions with a Registered Behavior Technician under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Spectrum believes in a collaborative approach to treatment and works closely with others on the child’s treatment team, including teachers, other service providers, and parents. Every day, our team turns small moments into lifelong breakthroughs: a first word spoken, a new friendship formed, a smile shared. That’s the spirit of Spectrum—a place where purpose meets progress, and where leadership is learned through service.
Successful interns are considered priority candidates for paid part-time RBT roles while finishing their degree and are fast-tracked for full-time employment post-graduation, with access to advanced leadership positions, higher education partnerships, and BCBA certification paths.
Duties
- Participate in ongoing training provided by BCBA/BCaBAs on the implementation of ABA techniques utilized to increase skill acquisition and reduce maladaptive behaviors.
Implement individualized treatment plans and behavior intervention plans under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and/or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst.
Provide direct behavioral services to clients under the supervision of a BCBA/BCaBA, serving as a role model for ethical and effective practice.
Collect and manage data and complete comprehensive session notes using industry-standard systems.
Participate in team leadership workshops and collaborate in client treatment team meetings (including parent meetings and professional provider collaboration) to develop a holistic understanding of care. - Pay: This is a paid internship. Please contact the internship coordinator to find out the current hourly pay rate.
Pre-Requisites
- Minimum of 10 hours per week commitment.
- Must meet all UMW and Department of Psychological Science internship requirements.
Mandatory Pre-Service Steps (all costs covered by Spectrum):
- Completion of background check, central registry check (for CPS), and a clean driving record check.
- Complete HIPAA Training and Mandated Reporter Training.
- CPR/First Aid Certification
- Completion of RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) Certification
Note on RBT Certification: RBT Certification entails a 40-hour online training that must be completed prior to starting the internship. The training is paid for by the agency, but you will not be paid for your time being trained (and this training does not count toward your internship hours). After the online training, you will receive additional in-person training/shadowing experience, which will be paid and count toward your internship hours. It is expected that you will pass the RBT assessment after the in-person training is complete.
Required Courses
- PSYC 231 – Infant and Child Development or PSYC 232 – Adolescent and Emerging Adult Development
- PSYC 253 – Fundamentals of Learning and Motivation
Recommended Courses
- PSYC 211 – Psychopathology
- PSYC 320 – Psychology of Exceptional Children and Youth
Assessment
- 42 hours of work per credit hour (most interns do 3 credits with 126 hours of work).
- Grade is based on on-campus supervision, agency evaluation, reflective journal, and a professional development portfolio.
Agency Contact
To apply, students must submit:
- A current Resume.
- A Cover Letter or a brief Statement of Interest outlining their interest in ABA and the internship.
Application materials must be sent to the contact listed below. A virtual interview will be scheduled for qualified candidates.
Internship Coordinator, Program Supervisor
- Eliana Black
- eblack@sas-aba.com
- 540-383-7133