Entry Level Play-Based Therapist (Paid Training)

Cortica - Neurodevelopmental; Laguna Niguel (CA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully Paid Training

Referral Bonus

Cell Phone Stipend

Paid Drive Time & Mileage

401(k) with Company Matching

Ongoing Professional Development

Leadership coaching & supervision

Job summary

Cortica - Neurodevelopmental is seeking an entry-level Play-Based Therapist (Paid Training). You will provide 1:1 and group behavior-analytic services to children, implementing strategies developed with a BCBA and documenting progress. This role emphasizes hands-on training, professional growth, and collaboration with families and clinicians.

The position offers fully paid training, a clear career path, and opportunities to advance while supporting neurodiverse children across California.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children; autism experience is a plus.
• High School or equivalent or higher; bachelor’s or master’s degree preferred.
• Proficiency with EMR and Microsoft Office tools is expected.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and group behavior-analytic services to children.
• Implement positive behavior strategies with BCBA guidance.
• Document session data to track treatment goals.
• Collaborate with families and supervisors to support environments.
• Follow crisis protocols and mandated reporting.

Skills

Experience with children

Tech-savvy (EMR, MS Office)

Travel between client sites

Education

High School or equivalent

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree

Tools

EMR systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Entry Level Play-Based Therapist (Paid Training)

Cortica is looking for dedicated, compassionate Behavior Technicians to join our growing team and help us design and deliver life-changing care for children with neurodevelopmental differences. At Cortica, we don't just offer jobs; we offer careers with purpose, growth, and support.

What We Offer:

• Pay Range: $21.18 to $28.42 per hour, based on experience and education.
• Thoughtfully Designed Schedules: We offer a predictable schedule with a single, direct rate of pay, including:
• Part-time roles with flexible 5-, 3- or 2-day-per-week options.
• Opportunities to pick up additional hours on Saturdays
• Fully Paid Training: Kickstart your career with Cortica with a comprehensive 2-week, in-person orientation that includes hands-on training. We're invested in your success from day one.
• Referral Bonus: Earn between $250-$500 for successful referrals.
• Cell Phone Stipend: Stay connected with support from us.
• Paid Drive Time and Mileage Reimbursement: We value your time on the road and include toll reimbursement in select areas.
• 401(k) with Company Matching: Secure your future with our generous plan.
• Ongoing Professional Development: Access continuous training through in-person and online opportunities.
• Supportive Environment: Collaborate with and receive expert coaching from Lead BTs, ABA Assistant Supervisors, and ABA Supervisors who champion your growth.
• Career Advancement: Opportunities to grow your career by advancing to a BCBA role, ascending the Behavior Technician Clinical Ladder, or serving in a corporate support role.
• Learn from Experts in Other Fields: Partner with BCBAs and experts in speech-language therapy, music therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy as well as counselors, pediatricians, neurologists, and nurse practitioners.

Your Impact & Responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 and group behavior-analytic services to children with autism and other neurodevelopmental differences.
• Implement positive behavior strategies developed with your BCBA.
• Use evidence-based practices to create meaningful progress for families.
• Document session data to track and support treatment goals.
• Collaborate closely with families and supervisors to build supportive environments.
• Follow Cortica's crisis protocols, including de-escalation and mandated reporting.

Who We’re Looking For:

• Experience working with children (experience with autism is a plus!).
• High School or equivalent, bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Ability to consistently travel between client sites within a 30-40-minute radius using reliable transportation.
• Tech-savvy with EMR systems and Microsoft Office tools.

Our Inclusive Culture:

• Transdisciplinary Approach: Collaborate with experts in various fields to care for the whole child.
• Collaborative Process: Develop individualized care plans alongside families and clinicians.
• Strength-Based, Neurodiversity-Affirming Model: Focus on building on each child's unique strengths rather than emphasizing deficits.

Join Cortica's team and make a meaningful impact by applying a strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming ABA therapy model. Help children recognize and build on their unique abilities, fostering positive relationships and skills that translate across home, school, and community settings. Be part of a progressive approach that combines neuroscience and developmental models to empower each child to thrive.

Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). For more details, visit the full job description h e re .

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Fair Chance Ordinance Compliance
Cortica is committed to fair hiring practices. Qualified candidates with criminal histories and/or driving violations will be considered and are not automatically disqualified from employment, consistent with applicable federal law, the California Fair Chance Act, and local ordinances.

Driving Requirement
This position requires the successful completion of a post-offer background check and a motor vehicle report review.