Demystifying Fieldwork Supervision: What You Need to Know

If you’re on the path to becoming a BCBA or BCaBA, one of the most important steps is completing supervised fieldwork. But here’s the thing: many trainees aren’t exactly sure what fieldwork supervision is supposed to look like. Let’s clear up some of the common questions so you can feel confident about choosing the right supervision experience.

What Is Fieldwork Supervision?

Fieldwork supervision is structured, hands-on training designed to bridge the gap between coursework and professional practice. Think of it as an apprenticeship for behavior analysts. You’ll work with clients while receiving guidance from a qualified supervisor who helps you apply ABA principles in real-world settings.

During supervision, your supervisor might:

• Observe sessions (live or recorded)

• Review your data collection and graphing

• Guide you in writing treatment plans, FBAs, or behavior intervention plans

• Role-play difficult conversations with caregivers or staff

• Provide feedback and strategies to help you grow professionally

Supervision isn’t just about checking boxes for your hours — it’s about building the skills you’ll need to succeed as a clinician.

Can Supervision Be Virtual?

Yes! Supervision can absolutely take place virtually. With HIPAA-compliant platforms, supervisors can observe sessions, meet with you 1:1, and provide group supervision — all online. This is especially helpful for trainees in areas without many local BCBAs or for those balancing busy schedules.

Can Supervision Cross State Lines?

Another common question: can your supervisor live in a different state? The answer is often yes, but with an important caveat. The key is that your supervisor must be licensed in whichever state the clients you’re serving live. For example, if you’re providing services in Virginia, your supervisor must hold a Virginia license (even if they live in another state). This ensures supervision stays compliant with state regulations.

What Makes a Good Supervision Site?

Not all supervision experiences are created equal. A strong supervision site should:

• Provide access to a variety of cases and settings so you’re exposed to a wide range of skills

• Encourage active participation in assessments, treatment planning, and caregiver training (not just session note writing)

• Offer regular, consistent supervision hours that meet BACB requirements

• Pair you with a supervisor who gives clear, constructive feedback

• Support your professional growth, not just see you as “free labor”

A mediocre site, on the other hand, might only let you collect data, with little exposure to higher-level clinical work. If you’re not learning, it’s okay to seek out a better fit.

What Is the Average Cost of Supervision Services?

Supervision is an investment in your career. Prices can vary depending on the supervisor’s experience, location, and whether you’re receiving individual or group supervision. On average, you might expect:

• Individual supervision: $60–$80 per hour

• Group supervision: $30–$50 per hour

Some supervisors (like us at Baker Consulting!) offer packages, discounts, and/or more affordable rates for supervision clients. The key is finding a balance between affordability and quality — remember, the right supervisor can make a huge difference in your confidence and competence as a future BCBA.