Applying for Certification
Click here to complete the application for Behavioral Health Aide certification.
Certification Agreement
Behavioral Health Aide (BHA) certification includes an agreement between the BHA, their employer, and their clinical supervisor. BHAs, employers, and clinical supervisors are responsible for knowledge of all the Standards and Procedures pertaining to their discipline.
Levels of Practice
There are four levels of practice for which a Behavioral Health Aide (BHA) may be certified:
- Behavioral Health Aide I (BHA I)
- Behavioral Health Aide II (BHA II)
- Behavioral Health Aide III (BHA III)
- Behavioral Health Practitioner (BHP)
Requirements
Each level of practice requires specific training, practicum, and work experience. It is the responsibility of the BHA to maintain records that they have met the requirements for certification. The Training, Practicum, and Work Experience form documents the overall completion of the required activities.
BHAs must learn, demonstrate, and maintain their competency in key skill areas. The Knowledge and Skills Checklist is completed by the clinical supervisor to document the BHA’s current level of competency in each of the ten skill areas.
Certification Term
Certifications are issued for a two-year period. If a BHA no longer meets the requirements of initial certification during the two-year term, their certification may be inactivated. An inactivated certification may be reactivated upon written notification to CHAPCB that the BHA again meets the requirements of initial certification.
Renewal
To maintain an active certification, prior to the expiration date, BHAs must apply for renewal. Requirements for renewal are continued demonstration of competency in the key skill areas and completion of continuing education requirements.
Additional Resources
Alternative Training Track. In January 2025, CHAPCB announced the discontinuation of the BHA Alternative Training Track, effective July 15, 2026. A key feature of the Alternative Training Track was its ability to allow individuals with a college degree to apply for an initial certification at any level of practice. Applicants seeking certification via this pathway must submit a complete application no later than July 15, 2026.
If you are seeking certification via the Alternative Training Track, use the forms listed below to document completion of the required activities.
Supplemental Work Experience. An applicant who demonstrates that they satisfy the applicable requirements of BHA/P Knowledge, Skills, and Scope of Practice and has the capacity to provide culturally appropriate services in a village setting may substitute prior relevant work experience that aligns with the level of certification they are seeking. For each request of exception or substitution include a Supplemental Work Experience Log with your application.
Request for Course Transfer. Applicants may request credit for training and education completed at a non-CHAPCB training program or institution. More information is available at BHA Request of Course Transfer.