Independent Living Skills Companion
About the job
- A bachelor's degree in Psychology or a closely related behavioral or social science field is required, although a separate requirements section says an entry-level applicant may qualify with at least a high school diploma and one year of training and experience providing support services to individuals with physical or developmental disabilities, or an Associate's degree in Psychology or a related field.
- Have proven experience as a personal care assistant.
- Be committed to health and safety.
- Be well-organized and reliable.
- Have communication and people skills.
- Have a positive and compassionate attitude and strong ethics.
- Have physical stamina and be able to lift up to 20 pounds or physically assist an individual.
- Be willing to obtain CPR/First Aid certification; a later requirements section specifies CPR certification.
- Have a valid driver's license, a reliable vehicle, and proof of auto insurance.
- Be willing to take public transportation.
- Support clients in their daily routines, including nutrition, self-care, social and recreational activities, personal relationships, and money management.
- Provide emotional support.
- Act quickly and responsibly in emergencies.
- Facilitate meaningful community connections and friendships.
- Explore and participate in recreational and educational activities with clients.
- Teach independent living skills and increase helpful, adaptive behaviors.
- Drive clients in a personal vehicle and/or take public transportation.
- Experience in positive behavior supports and caring for elderly or sick people is beneficial.
- Students studying Psychology, Occupational Therapy, Human Development, or related fields are identified as ideal candidates.
- Relevant backgrounds include caregiving, Direct Support Professional, respite work, paraprofessional work, LNA/CNA, nursing home facilitation, and program administration.
About the company
The Institute for Applied Behavior Analysis focuses on improving how professionals support people with challenging behavior by promoting non-aversive, person-centered approaches. It provides guidance and resources to help practitioners design and implement positive behavior support plans that emphasize safety, dignity, and individualized supports. The work centers on applying behavior analytic methods to reduce challenging behavior without punishment, using proactive strategies, function-based interventions, and data-driven decision making. Compared with others in the field, the institute differentiates itself by explicitly prioritizing non-aversive, person-centered practices and practical resources for real-world application, rather than relying on punitive or coercive methods. The goal is to advance ethical, effective, and humane support for individuals with challenging behavior, helping them participate more fully in daily life and achieve better quality of life.
Company Size
51-200
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Los Angeles, California
Founded
1981
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- BACB keeps demand rising through 2025 employment data and 2027 certification changes.
- IABA's telehealth and in-person California delivery broadens access for families.
- Rising industry enforcement can advantage compliant operators over weaker competitors.
What critics are saying
- Cuellar v. IABA filed February 2026 alleges rest-break, meal, and wage violations.
- ABA providers face escalating DOJ, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and FCA scrutiny in 2026.
- If reimbursement or compliance pressure worsens, staffing and margins deteriorate quickly.
What makes Institute for Applied Behavior Analysis unique
- Founded in 1981 by Dr. Gary LaVigna and Dr. Thomas Willis, IABA has deep ABA roots.
- IABA focuses on positive practices for challenging behavior, not generic autism care.
- Its California footprint spans Camarillo and Culver City, supporting regional service depth.
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Benefits
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Sick Leave
- Training Programs
- Mentorship Program
- Phone/Internet Stipend
- Employee Referral Bonus