Cultural Exchange Fellow – Behavioral Therapy

Company: Dragonfly ABA (www.dragonflyaba.com)

Location: United States (New York)

Program Duration: 12 months

Visa Sponsorship: J-1 Intern Visa (non-U.S. citizens only)

About Us:

Dragonfly ABA specializes in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services, supporting children with autism and their families through evidence-based, compassionate therapy. Our mission is to empower individuals and create meaningful progress in their lives.

About the Role:

We are seeking enthusiastic, early-career individuals to join our 18-month Behavioral Therapy Cultural Exchange Program, focused on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and preparing for the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification. This U.S.-based program offers a unique pathway for international psychology, education, and special education students or recent graduates to gain supervised clinical training while engaging in a meaningful cultural exchange.

This is more than just a professional training opportunity - it's a life-changing cultural journey. As a member of the Dragonfly ABA team, you'll join a vibrant, multicultural workplace and live in one of the most diverse regions in the United States. Here, you'll grow professionally in a supportive environment while experiencing the richness of American life - from community festivals and cultural events to exploring world cuisines in local neighborhoods. You'll work alongside passionate professionals and make meaningful connections with people from all walks of life.

About the Program:

We are excited to launch an international internship/trainee initiative under the U.S. Department of State's J-1 Visa Program. This pilot program offers recent graduates or final-year students in Psychology, Education, or Special Education from outside the USA an opportunity to receive hands-on training and practical internship experience as Behavioral Technicians (BTs) in the United States.

Participants will complete the 40-hour RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) course virtually before arrival and will receive supervision and structured training while working directly with individuals with developmental needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Participate in structured training, including observation, assistant roles, and supervised ABA therapy
• Learn and apply behavior analysis principles to help children achieve therapeutic goals
• Support data collection, session documentation, and therapy planning
• Collaborate with supervisors and peers in delivering high-quality, ethical therapy
• Engage in community and cultural exchange activities to enrich your U.S. experience
• Comply with all J-1 intern program guidelines and safety protocols

Qualifications

Education:

Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a Bachelor's program (within the last 12 months) in Psychology, Education, Special Education, Social Work, or related field

Additional Requirements:

• Strong spoken and written English communication skills
• Eagerness to learn about child development and special needs services
• Completion of a 40-hour RBT training course (may be done before arrival)
• Commitment to the full 18-month internship program
• Willingness to undergo a U.S. background check and obtain RBT certification

Preferred Candidate Profile:

• Fresh graduates from psychology-related programs
• Supportive family and some financial preparedness for the transition
• High adaptability and genuine interest in working with children

Support Provided:

• Assistance with J-1 visa sponsorship and documentation
• Orientation and cultural acclimation support upon arrival
• Housing guidance and community support (housing costs not included)
• Direct supervision and ongoing mentorship from BCBAs
• Participation in cultural exchange and team-building activities
• Dragonfly ABA will pay a stipend of $15-$20/hour for a 40-hour week

Important Notes

• This is an internship training opportunity, not a salaried job
• Certain caregiving duties may be limited by J-1 program guidelines
• The focus is on learning, training, and mutual cultural enrichment

How to Apply:

Send your CV, a brief Statement of Purpose, and your university transcripts (optional) To: [email protected]: J-1 Cultural Exchange Fellow Application – [Your Name]