Play-Based Therapist (Paid Training)

Cortica - Neurodevelopmental; Naperville (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 37,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible schedule

Paid training

Referral bonus

Cell phone stipend

Mileage reimbursement

401(k) matching

Professional development

Career advancement

Job summary

Cortica is seeking dedicated Behavior Technicians to support 1:1 and group behavioral services for children with neurodevelopmental differences in Naperville, IL. You will implement BCBA-designed strategies, track progress, and collaborate with families to create supportive home and school environments.

The role emphasizes a strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming ABA approach, with ongoing training and development and potential career growth within Cortica.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children; autism experience a plus.
• Willingness to obtain BCAT credential within 90 days.
• Travel between client sites within a 30–40 minute radius.
• HB/BA or higher degree required or preferred.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Child-focused work

Tech-savvy (EMR, MS Office)

Education

HS or higher; BA/MA preferred

Tools

EMR systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Title: Behavior Technician (Naturalistic, Play-Based ABA)

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: $ 20.21 to $27.11 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 & Certification: Kickstart your career with Cortica with a comprehensive 2-week, in-person orientation that includes hands-on training, a Board-Certified Autism Technician (BCAT) exam review, and full coverage of your exam fees. 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.
• Willingness to obtain your BCAT credential within 90 days of your start date (We provide all training!).
• 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).

Behavioral Health Center of Excellence (BHCOE) Accredited 2024 | America’s Greatest Midsize Workplaces 2025 Newsweek | Great Place to Work Certified 2025 | Glassdoor 4.3 Rating 2025 | Indeed 4.1 Rating 2025

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Driving Requirement

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

As set forth in Cortica - Neurodevelopmental’s Equal Employment Opportunity policy,we do not discriminate on the basis of any protected group status under any applicable law.

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