Side Hustles for BCBAs: Opportunities to Consider
Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) play a crucial role in supporting individuals with autism and other developmental conditions through evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. While being a BCBA is fulfilling, many professionals consider side hustles to diversify their income, expand their skills, or explore new interests.
This blog delves into what side hustles for BCBAs entail, highlighting options that align with their expertise in ABA therapy and autism support. Whether you’re looking for flexibility, professional growth, or supplemental income, there’s a side hustle for every BCBA.
Why Consider a Side Hustle as a BCBA?
Professional Growth
Engaging in a side hustle allows BCBAs to explore related fields, learn new skills, and gain exposure to different aspects of autism care or behavioral science.
Financial Flexibility
A side hustle can provide an additional income stream, helping BCBAs meet personal or professional goals, such as funding certifications, investing in resources, or saving for the future.
Personal Fulfillment
Side hustles often allow BCBAs to pursue passion projects or creative outlets that complement their work, such as writing, consulting, or teaching.
Characteristics of a Good Side Hustle for BCBAs
When choosing a side hustle, BCBAs should prioritize opportunities that:
- Leverage Expertise: Build upon their skills and knowledge in autism and ABA therapy.
- Offer Flexibility: Fit around full-time work schedules and avoid burnout.
- Have Ethical Alignment: Maintain professional integrity and adhere to industry guidelines.
Side Hustle Ideas for BCBAs
1. Private Consulting
BCBAs can offer private consultation services to families or schools. This might involve developing Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs), training caregivers, or conducting Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs). This is a natural extension of a BCBA’s expertise and provides flexibility in scheduling.
2. Parent Coaching
Parent coaching involves teaching parents how to apply ABA strategies in their daily interactions with their child. This is a rewarding side hustle that enables BCBAs to empower families while working independently.
3. Developing ABA Training Materials
BCBAs can create and sell resources such as e-books, workbooks, or video tutorials for parents, educators, or paraprofessionals. These materials can cover topics like managing challenging behaviors, building communication skills, or creating visual schedules.
4. Telehealth Services
With the growing demand for remote services, BCBAs can provide telehealth consultations or therapy sessions. This is especially valuable for families in rural areas with limited access to in-person ABA services.
5. Academic Tutoring or Teaching
BCBAs with a knack for teaching might consider becoming adjunct professors or offering tutoring services in behavioral science, psychology, or special education. This is an excellent way to share knowledge and inspire future professionals in the field.
6. Writing and Content Creation
BCBAs with strong communication skills can explore opportunities in writing. They can create blogs, articles, or books about autism, ABA therapy, or neurodiversity. Freelancing for industry publications or starting a personal blog can also build credibility and reach.
7. Workshops and Webinars
Hosting workshops or webinars on topics like social skills training, behavior management, or ABA strategies can be both lucrative and impactful. This side hustle also offers the flexibility to tailor sessions to different audiences.
8. Product Development
BCBAs can collaborate with designers or developers to create tools or products that support individuals with autism, such as apps, sensory toys, or ABA data collection software. This combines innovation with practical application.
9. Board Exam Prep Services
BCBAs can mentor aspiring analysts by offering BCBA exam preparation services. Creating study guides, conducting mock exams, or hosting Q&A sessions can help candidates succeed while generating income.
10. Insurance Advocacy
Navigating insurance for autism services can be challenging for families. BCBAs can offer consulting services to help families understand their options and maximize coverage for ABA therapy.
Ethical Considerations for Side Hustles
When pursuing a side hustle, BCBAs must adhere to ethical guidelines set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). This includes:
- Avoiding conflicts of interest with primary employment
- Maintaining confidentiality and respecting client privacy
- Ensuring all services are evidence-based and within the scope of practice
It’s also essential to communicate openly with your employer to avoid potential conflicts.
Benefits of Side Hustles for the Autism Community
BCBAs who engage in side hustles often bring their expertise to underserved areas, creating more opportunities for families and individuals affected by autism. For example, offering affordable telehealth services or parent training can make ABA strategies more accessible to those who need them.
By pursuing side hustles that align with their skills, BCBAs contribute to raising awareness, promoting education, and fostering inclusion for the autism community.
Conclusion
A side hustle as a BCBA can be a fulfilling way to expand your impact, grow professionally, and diversify your income. From consulting and content creation to workshops and product development, there are numerous opportunities that allow you to leverage your skills while maintaining flexibility.
At Connect n Care, we understand the dedication it takes to support individuals with autism and their families. Whether you’re a full-time BCBA or exploring side hustles, we’re here to foster growth, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improving lives through ABA therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best side hustles for BCBAs?
Some of the best side hustles for BCBAs include private consulting, parent coaching, content creation, and hosting workshops. These options align with a BCBA’s expertise while offering flexibility.
How can BCBAs balance a side hustle with full-time work?
BCBAs can balance side hustles by choosing flexible opportunities, setting clear boundaries, and prioritizing self-care to avoid burnout. Communicating with employers about potential conflicts is also essential.
Are side hustles for BCBAs ethical?
Side hustles are ethical as long as they align with the BACB guidelines, maintain client confidentiality, and avoid conflicts of interest with primary employment.
