Job Title: Instructor Therapist (IT)
Location: Burlington, ON (On-site)
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
About Missing Links Autism
Missing Links Autism is committed to delivering exceptional, evidence-based intervention for children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other exceptionalities. We practice Progressive Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), a dynamic, compassionate approach that balances the science of learning with the art of human connection. We believe that effective therapy is not rigid or rote; it is flexible, individualized, and rooted in ongoing behavioural analysis. We prioritize client dignity, assent, and autonomy, ensuring that every interaction is both meaningful and respectful. We are looking for Instructor Therapists with a similar mindset, care like advocates, and adapt like clinicians.
Purpose of Position
As an Instructor Therapist at Missing Links, you are the heart of our clinical delivery. You will work on-site in Burlington, delivering both group-based and one-to-one programming using Progressive ABA teaching strategies. Your role is to implement daily interventions with fidelity, but more importantly, to analyze behaviour in real time and respond flexibly to the unique needs, interests, and communication styles of each learner. You are not simply following a protocol; you are engaging in a collaborative, therapeutic partnership.
Key Accountabilities
1. Progressive Clinical Implementation & Behavioural Analysis
- Implement ABA teaching strategies (e.g., Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBI), Precision Teaching, Direct Instruction, incidental teaching, shaping, chaining) in both 1:1 and group settings using a flexible and individualized approach.
- Prioritize learner assent and engagement; continuously monitor motivation and adjust pacing, tone, and materials to maintain a positive and productive learning environment.
- Engage in ongoing, in-the-moment behavioural analysis to identify patterns, antecedents, and the function of behaviour, always viewing behaviour as communication.
- Adapt protocols clinically, under supervision, to ensure strategies are socially valid, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive.
2. Data-Driven Decision Making with a Humanistic Lens
- Record precise, objective data and write detailed session notes that reflect not only skill acquisition and behaviour reduction, but also learner affect, choice-making, and autonomy.
- Monitor and interpret client progress; bring forward clinically relevant trends and hypotheses to the clinical team to inform compassionate, effective program modifications.
3. Collaborative Practice & Interdisciplinary Communication
- Maintain consistent, professional communication with the Clinical Team (RBAs, Clinical Coordinator, and allied professionals).
- Actively contribute to collaborative planning meetings regarding behaviour plans and skill acquisition; come prepared with clinical hypotheses and qualitative observations, not just raw data.
- Collaborate with fellow Instructor Therapists to ensure consistency, compassion, and clinical integrity across environments and staff.
4. Professionalism, Reflective Practice & Teamwork
- Participate in scheduled team meetings and ongoing professional development rooted in Progressive ABA principles.
- Demonstrate independence in managing session schedules, materials preparation, and technology used for data collection and programming.
- Engage in reflective supervision, remain open to feedback, be self-aware, and be committed to ongoing growth as a clinician.
Core Competencies
- Analytical & Flexible Thinking: You view behaviour as data and communication. You adapt in the moment based on learner feedback.
- Compassionate Connection: You build trust and rapport with learners and families through respect, humility, and authenticity.
- Cultural Humility: You recognize and honour the diverse backgrounds, values, and identities of the learners and families you serve.
- Technical Proficiency: Competent with computers, tablet-based data collection, and virtual communication platforms.
Qualifications & Experience
Education:
- Applied Behaviour Analysis Diploma; OR
- College Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Behaviour Science, Child and Youth Care, or a related field.
Experience:
- Minimum 1+ year(s) experience as an Instructor Therapist, Behaviour Interventionist, or similar role implementing Progressive or Contemporary ABA teaching strategies.
- Direct experience working with developmental disabilities, complex behaviours, and skill acquisition programs using assent-based, naturalistic, or child-led approaches.
- Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT) designation is a strong asset. Candidates actively working toward RBT certification will be considered.
Assets:
- Experience with group-based instruction, social skills groups, and school-based partnerships.
- Training in Trauma-Informed Practice, Neurodiversity-Affirming Care, or Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI).
Why Join Missing Links Autism?
- Competitive Wage: $22.00 – $30.00 per hour (corresponding with experience, education, and credentials).
- Comprehensive Benefits: Dental care and Extended Health Care.
- Consistent Schedule: Stable daytime hours, no late evenings or weekends (Monday-Friday).
- On-site Support: You are never alone; daily access to on-site supervision and a collaborative clinical team committed to Progressive ABA.
- Professional Growth: Emphasis on achievement, clinical reasoning, and internal promotion within a values-driven organization.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: $22.00-$30.00 per hour
Expected hours: 30 – 37.5 per week
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
Work Location: In person
