Beyond the Task List: A Proposed Integration of Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions to BCBA Training

Naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention (NDBI) is firmly rooted in both the science of ABA as well as developmental science. Research indicates that many practicing board certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) are unfamiliar with NDBI models and do not implement these approaches when working with young autistic children (Hampton and Sandbank Autism, 26(4), 875-888, 2022). In this article we align NDBI to the seven dimensions of ABA, describe their compatibility with the ABA service system, and urge community agencies and insurance funders to support NDBI use. Finally, we provide a roadmap for BCBAs who provide behavior analytic intervention to young autistic children and for Verified Course Sequence faculty to effectively align the 6th edition BCBA Test Content Outline with the principles and application of NDBI.