The past several months have been a good opportunity to reflect on how far behaviour analysis regulation has come in Ontario.
Over the past two years, 91ÊÓƵ has reviewed thousands of applications, developed new regulatory processes and resources, and supported the profession through its transition to formal regulation. With the transitional routes now closed, we are moving into a new phase — one focused less on establishing the regulatory system and more on ongoing operation and oversight.
Behaviour analysis continues to grow as a regulated profession in Ontario. As of August 31, 2026, 91ÊÓƵ had 2,217 Registered Behaviour Analysts (RBAs), compared with 1,639 in May 2025. While the pace of growth has begun to level off, registrations continue to increase, and it is foreseeable that, in time, RBAs may equal or exceed registrants in psychology.
Behind these numbers is a profession that provides important services to individuals and families across Ontario. Applied behaviour analysis uses principles of learning and behaviour to help people develop skills in areas such as communication, daily living and independence. While Behaviour Analysts work with a variety of populations, their work with autistic children and individuals with developmental disabilities is particularly well known. The growth of the profession reflects, in part, the demand for these services from families who have seen the meaningful difference that effective interventions can make in their children’s lives. The College’s role is to help ensure that the public can access these services from professionals who are competent, ethical and accountable.
I have been encouraged by the level of engagement from RBAs through consultations and committee work. That participation gives 91ÊÓƵ important insight into how regulatory requirements are experienced in practice and helps inform our ongoing work.
This kind of engagement matters across both professions. 91ÊÓƵ currently has two consultations underway on proposed changes to By-law 18 (Fees) and By-law 22 (Professional Liability Insurance). I encourage all registrants to review the changes and share their feedback.
As behaviour analysis regulation matures, 91ÊÓƵ will continue to monitor the profession’s growth and the operation of its regulatory processes. This work takes place alongside 91ÊÓƵ’s continued regulation of the psychology profession. While psychology and behaviour analysis are distinct professions with different practice contexts, our approach to both remains grounded in the same core principles: competence, accountability, ethical practice and protection of the public.
I also want to recognize the considerable work of 91ÊÓƵ staff, Board Directors and Committee members in building and supporting the regulatory framework for behaviour analysis, as well as the many Behaviour Analysts who have contributed throughout the transition.
There is more work ahead, but there is also a great deal that has been accomplished in a relatively short period of time to make sure Ontarians have access to these regulated health professionals. I look forward to continuing that work with both professions.
Peter J. Bieling, PhD, C.Psych.
Chair