Behavior Specialist

A behavior specialist is a type of counselor that works with individuals whose behaviors interfere with their functioning. A behavior specialist usually has a degree in child development or psychology and is trained to analyze behaviors and detect emotional, mental, or physical problems or concerns. A behavior specialist may work in a school, hospital, or in private practice. In a school setting, a behavior specialist works with children whose behavior is causing a disruption in school when typical behavior interventions or classroom management strategies have not been effective. The child may or may not have a disability, 504 Plan, or IEP, but if their behavior is affecting their learning, the behavior specialist will work with them to help improve those behaviors with interventions and coping skills. Often, the behavior specialist will conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA) and develop a behavior intervention plan, or BIP.