How Much Do ABA Therapists Make in North Carolina?
March 3, 2025
Discover the earnings of ABA therapists in North Carolina. Unveiling salaries, factors, and trends in the industry. Find out more!
Understanding ABA Therapist Salaries
ABA therapists play a crucial role in providing therapy and support to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Understanding the factors that affect their salaries and knowing the entry-level salaries can provide valuable insights into the earning potential of ABA therapists in North Carolina.
Factors Affecting Salaries
Several factors contribute to the variation in ABA therapist salaries in North Carolina. These factors include:
- Experience: As with many professions, experience plays a significant role in determining an ABA therapist's salary. ABA therapists starting out with a year or less of experience in North Carolina typically earn around $19.39 per hour. However, as they gain experience in the industry, their salaries tend to increase.
- Location: Salaries for ABA therapists can vary based on their location within the state. Factors such as the cost of living and demand for ABA services in specific regions can impact the earning potential of ABA therapists. Regional disparities can influence the salaries offered in different areas of North Carolina.
- Education and Certification: The level of education and certification obtained by an ABA therapist can also affect their earning potential. Advanced degrees or specialized certifications may lead to higher salaries. However, it's important to note that the specific requirements and their impact on salaries can vary depending on the employer and job setting.
Entry-Level Salaries
For individuals starting their careers as ABA therapists in North Carolina, the average entry-level salaries can provide a benchmark for understanding earning potential. The average salary range for entry-level ABA therapists in North Carolina varies depending on factors such as experience, qualifications, and specific job settings. Salaries can range from approximately $35,000 to $45,000 per year [2].
It's important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary based on individual circumstances, such as education, certification, and the specific organization or agency employing the ABA therapist.
Understanding the factors that influence salaries and having knowledge of entry-level salaries can help aspiring ABA therapists in North Carolina make informed decisions about their career paths and earning potential. As ABA therapists gain experience and expertise in the field, their salaries have the potential to increase, offering promising opportunities for advancement and growth.
ABA Therapist Roles in North Carolina
In North Carolina, ABA therapists play vital roles in providing behavioral therapy and support to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. Two common roles within the field of ABA therapy are Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs).
Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs)
RBTs are an essential part of the ABA therapy team. They work directly with individuals receiving therapy, implementing behavior intervention plans, and collecting data on progress. RBTs are supervised by BCBAs or other qualified professionals.
The average salary of an RBT in North Carolina is around $19.85 per hour, which is approximately two and a half times the national minimum wage for this position. However, the actual salary can vary based on factors such as experience and the city of employment within the state.
Here is an overview of the average RBT salaries in some cities across North Carolina:
City Average Hourly Salary (USD)
- Fayetteville: $20.59
- Raleigh: $20.33
- Jacksonville: $18.51
- Kernersville: $18.47
Figures courtesy of Cross River Therapy
Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)
BCBAs are highly trained professionals who have obtained certification from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). They conduct assessments, develop behavior intervention plans, and oversee the implementation of ABA therapy programs. BCBAs also provide supervision and guidance to RBTs and other members of the therapy team.
In North Carolina, the average annual salary for BCBAs is around $76,826, which equates to over $40.00 per hour for a typical 40-hour workweek. However, it's important to note that salaries for BCBAs can vary based on factors such as work experience and location within the state.
It's worth mentioning that the average salary of ABA therapists in North Carolina ranges from approximately $47,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on factors such as education, certification, and experience.
RBTs and BCBAs both play crucial roles in the field of ABA therapy, contributing to the well-being and progress of individuals with ASD and other developmental disabilities. Their salaries reflect the importance of their expertise and the demand for their services in North Carolina.
Salary Variances in North Carolina
The salary of ABA therapists in North Carolina can vary depending on several factors, including regional disparities and the impact of education and certification.
Regional Disparities
Salary differences across different regions of North Carolina can impact the earnings of ABA therapists. For example, according to Cross River Therapy, the cities of Fayetteville and Raleigh tend to offer the highest average salaries for Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), with earnings around $20.59 and $20.33 per hour, respectively. On the other hand, Jacksonville and Kernersville have the lowest average salaries for RBTs, paying around $18.51 and $18.47 per hour.
It's important to note that salaries can also vary within a particular region based on factors such as demand for ABA therapy services and the cost of living. Areas with a higher demand for ABA services or a higher cost of living may offer higher salaries to attract and retain qualified ABA therapists.
Impact of Education and Certification
Education and certification play a significant role in determining the salary of an ABA therapist in North Carolina. Most employers prefer candidates with a Bachelor's degree in a related field. Additionally, obtaining certification, such as the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification, can lead to higher-paying positions. According to Gold Star Rehab, BCBA professionals in North Carolina earn an average of $76,826 per year, which equates to over $40.00 per hour for a typical 40-hour work week.
The specific job setting, such as healthcare facilities, educational institutions, or private practice, can also influence the salary range for ABA therapists in North Carolina, as mentioned by ABA Therapy & Autism Services of ABTA.
In summary, regional disparities within North Carolina and the level of education and certification attained can significantly impact the salaries of ABA therapists in the state. It's important for ABA therapists to consider these factors when evaluating potential job opportunities and negotiating their salaries.
Advancing in the ABA Field
As ABA therapists gain experience and expertise in their field, they have the opportunity to advance their careers and potentially increase their salaries. Experience and expertise are crucial factors that can influence the earning potential of ABA therapists.
Experience and Expertise
Experience plays a significant role in determining the salary of an ABA therapist. Therapists with more hands-on experience and a proven track record of successful outcomes may command higher salaries. As therapists gain more experience working with individuals with autism and implementing behavior intervention strategies, their value in the job market increases. Additionally, specialized expertise in areas such as early intervention or working with challenging behaviors can contribute to higher earning potential.
ABA therapists can enhance their expertise by pursuing advanced education and gaining specialized certifications. Most employers prefer candidates with a Bachelor's degree in a related field, while some positions may require a Master's degree for higher-level roles. Holding certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) can open doors to higher-paying positions and increased earning potential. By staying updated on the latest research and techniques in the field, therapists can continue to improve their expertise and increase their value as professionals.
Negotiating Salaries
When it comes to negotiating salaries, individual factors and negotiation skills come into play. ABA therapists should be aware of their unique qualifications and the specific employer's compensation structure. By understanding the average salary range for ABA therapists in North Carolina and considering their own qualifications and experience, therapists can negotiate compensation that reflects their value and contributions to the practice.
It's important for ABA therapists to stay informed about industry trends and salary benchmarks to ensure they are being compensated fairly. Researching salary ranges for similar positions and consulting professional organizations can provide valuable insights during negotiations. By effectively articulating their experience, expertise, and value to the organization, therapists can increase their chances of securing a salary that aligns with their qualifications and contributions.
Advancing in the ABA field requires continuous learning, professional development, and a proactive approach to career growth. By gaining experience, expanding expertise, and effectively negotiating salaries, ABA therapists in North Carolina can strive for career advancement and potentially higher earnings.
Industry Insights and Trends
To understand the earnings of ABA therapists in North Carolina, it's essential to consider the industry insights and trends that impact their salaries. Two significant factors that influence ABA therapist salaries are the demand for ABA therapy services and the cost of living in a particular area.
Demand for ABA Therapy Services
The demand for ABA therapy services can vary across different regions in North Carolina. Areas with a higher demand may offer higher salaries to attract and retain qualified therapists. The need for ABA therapy services is driven by the increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorder and the recognition of ABA as an effective treatment approach [3].
As the demand for ABA therapy services continues to grow, the industry is expected to provide more employment opportunities for ABA therapists. This increased demand can potentially lead to higher salaries due to the competition for qualified professionals.
Cost of Living Influence
The cost of living in a specific location can have a significant influence on ABA therapist salaries. Areas with a higher cost of living may provide higher compensation to offset expenses. Urban areas or regions with higher living costs may offer higher salaries to attract and retain ABA therapists.
It's important to note that the cost of living can vary significantly within North Carolina. Factors such as housing prices, transportation costs, and overall expenses contribute to the cost of living in a particular area. ABA therapists should consider the cost of living when evaluating their salaries and potential job opportunities.
By understanding the demand for ABA therapy services and the cost of living influence, ABA therapists in North Carolina can gain insights into the factors that may impact their earnings. It's crucial to consider these industry trends and regional variations when assessing salary expectations and making career decisions.
Specialized Training Programs
To excel in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, specialized training programs are often available to ABA therapists. These programs aim to enhance their skills and provide additional opportunities for career growth. Two common types of specialized training programs for ABA therapists include paid training opportunities and retention bonuses and incentives.
Paid Training Opportunities
In North Carolina, some ABA therapy providers offer paid training to new therapists, allowing them to accelerate their career growth and development. By providing paid training, these providers invest in the professional development of their therapists, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide quality care to their clients.
Paid training programs typically include hands-on experience, theoretical coursework, and mentorship from experienced professionals in the field. Through these programs, ABA therapists can enhance their understanding of ABA principles and intervention strategies, refine their observational and data collection skills, and develop effective behavior management techniques.
By participating in paid training programs, ABA therapists can gain valuable experience that can positively impact their career trajectory. These programs provide a solid foundation for therapists to build upon, ensuring they are well-prepared to work with individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities.
Retention Bonuses and Incentives
Retention bonuses and incentives are additional perks that ABA therapists may receive as part of their employment package. In North Carolina, ABA therapists can earn an average annual salary of $48,000 based on performance and attendance. Additionally, they may be eligible for retention bonuses of up to $1,000 during their first year of employment.
These retention bonuses and incentives serve as a way for employers to recognize and reward the dedication and commitment of ABA therapists. They can provide motivation for therapists to continue delivering high-quality care and can contribute to job satisfaction and retention within the field.
By offering these bonuses and incentives, ABA therapy providers aim to attract and retain talented therapists, creating a supportive and rewarding work environment. This can ultimately benefit the therapists themselves, as well as the individuals with autism spectrum disorders who receive their care.
Through specialized training programs, such as paid training opportunities and retention bonuses and incentives, ABA therapists in North Carolina can further develop their skills, enhance their career prospects, and feel valued within their profession. These programs contribute to the overall growth and success of ABA therapy in the state, ultimately benefiting individuals with autism and their families.