F.7. Interpret assessment data to determine the need for behavior-analytic services and/or referral to others

Interpreting assessment data to determine the need for behavior-analytic services and/or referral to others involves analyzing the results of behavioral assessments to decide whether the client requires ABA services. If the client’s needs fall outside the scope of behavior analysis or involve other areas of expertise, the behavior analyst may recommend referrals to other professionals (e.g., psychologists, medical doctors).

Example: A BCBA conducts a functional behavior assessment (FBA) for a child showing aggressive behavior at school. After interpreting the data, the BCBA determines that social attention primarily maintains the behavior. Based on this analysis, the BCBA recommends starting an intervention focused on teaching alternative communication strategies to gain attention appropriately. However, during the assessment, the BCBA also noticed symptoms of anxiety that seemed unrelated to the behavioral contingencies identified. Recognizing that anxiety is outside their scope of practice, the BCBA refers the family to a licensed clinical psychologist for further evaluation.