Behavior Therapist

Company Overview

Intellectual Disabilities (North and West Vancouver) Society supports individuals living with intellectual disabilities to thrive in the unique life they choose. IDS is a mid-sized, non-profit organization that provides a variety of housing, community, and employment services.

We see a community where all people with disabilities can have equal opportunities to lead active, fulfilling lives and are recognized as contributing members of the community. IDS is a community leader providing quality services and is accredited by CARF.

We employ a team of exceptional professionals, and together we work toward honoring our clients' interests, talents, skills and aspirations so they can thrive in their local communities.

Position Overview

The Behavioral Therapist provides evidence‑based behavioral assessment and intervention services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who experience complex or challenging behaviors. Working within a person‑centred framework, the Behavioral Therapist supports the development, implementation, and monitoring of Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) and provides coaching and training to staff, families, and contractors to promote positive behavioral outcomes and quality of life.

Key Responsibilities

Behavioral Assessment & Planning

• Participate in functional behavior assessments under the direction of a qualified Behavior Consultant, where required
• Support the development of individualized Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) that are proactive, least intrusive, and aligned with CLBC Behavior Guidelines
• Contribute behavior goals and strategies to Individual Support Plans

Implementation & Monitoring

• Assist with implementing Behavior Support Plans across programs, homes, or community settings
• Monitor behavior data and document progress, effectiveness, and emerging risks
• Participate in regular behavior plan reviews and recommend adjustments as needed

Training & Capacity Building

• Provide hands-on coaching, modelling, and feedback to staff, Home Sharing contractors, and families
• Support staff understanding of behavior function, prevention strategies, and approved responses
• Reinforce consistency in behavioral approaches across environments

Collaboration & Communication

• Work collaboratively with Program Managers, Support Workers, Home Sharing contractors, families, and external professionals
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings related to behavior support
• Maintain professional communication and clear documentation regarding behavior strategies and outcomes

Safety, Ethics & Compliance

• Ensure behavior interventions align with IDS policies, ethical standards, CLBC policies and safety requirements
• Support the appropriate use of behavior support strategies and minimize the use of restrictive procedures
• Review Critical Incident reports to identify trends, behavior support needs and effectiveness of behavior interventions.

Required Qualities, Skills, and Abilities

• Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in Behavioral Science, Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, Social Work, or other related field
• Formal training or education on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), positive behavior support
• Minimum 1-2 years of experience supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities requiring behavioral support needs
• Experience in providing hands-on training to front-line staff
• Experience working in community living, staffed homes, or home sharing environments

Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of person-centred and trauma-informed practices
• Ability to analyze behavior patterns and support data-informed decisions
• Excellent communication, coaching, and documentation skills
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and solution-focused in complex situations
• Strong collaboration and relationship-building skills

Employment Requirements

• Criminal Record Check
• First Aid Certification
• Crisis Intervention (CPI) Certification
• Medical Approval
• Tuberculosis Clearance
• Satisfactory Reference Checks
• Use of a personal reliable vehicle
• Valid BC Driver’s Licence (Class 5)
• Current Driver’s Abstract
• Purchase of Vehicular Business Insurance
• Other requirements as detailed in Intellectual Disabilities Society Policies

Working Conditions

• Work may take place in residential, community, or office settings
• May involve occasional evening or weekend work, depending on program needs
• Adherence to IDS health and safety policies is required