Cultural Exchange Fellow

**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
- 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
- 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**: