A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) works in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), directly serving individuals with autism and other developmental disorders. Their work is pivotal in implementing ABA therapy, the number one recommended approach for improving socially significant behaviors in children with autism. But what exactly does an RBT do? Let’s delve into their responsibilities, skills, and the impact they have on their clients’ lives.
What does an RBT do?
An RBT’s workload will look different almost every single day – no session is the same! RBTs may work in homes, schools, and clinics, usually one-on-one with a client, but may be involved in group settings. They collect data on the client’s progress and report it to the supervising Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Implementing Behavior Plans
- Direct Therapy: RBTs work one-on-one with clients, following an individualized behavior intervention plan designed by a BCBA. This involves using specific techniques to encourage positive behaviors and reduce negative ones.
- Skill Acquisition: They help clients develop new skills, such as communication, social interaction, and daily living activities. This could range from teaching a child to request items verbally to helping them cope with strong emotions and behaviors.
Data Collection and Analysis
- Accurate Recording: RBTs meticulously record data on clients’ behaviors and progress during each session. This data is critical for BCBAs to analyze the effectiveness of the intervention and make necessary adjustments.
- Graphing Data: Often, RBTs will graph this data to visually represent progress, making it easier to identify trends and patterns in behavior.
Collaboration with the Treatment Team
- Team Meetings: Regularly, RBTs participate in meetings with BCBAs, parents, teachers, and other professionals to discuss progress, challenges, and adjustments to the intervention plan.
- Training and Feedback: They receive ongoing training and feedback to ensure they are implementing the behavior plan correctly and effectively.
Maintaining Professional Standards
- Ethical Practice: RBTs adhere to the ethical guidelines set forth by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). This includes maintaining confidentiality, obtaining proper consent, and delivering services in a professional manner.
- Continued Education: To maintain their certification, RBTs must complete ongoing education and training, staying current with best practices in ABA therapy.
What To Expect on a Day-To-Day Basis as an RBT
RBTs start their day by preparing the materials for each client’s session that day. They will review previous data collection and ensure materials, toys, and reinforcers are ready to go before the client arrives so transitions are smooth.
Once the client arrives, RBTs will greet them and begin therapy based on the individualized plan developed by the BCBA. Therapy can include working on communication goals, social situations, coping and self-help skills, and even eating, potty training, and academics. Every client is different, so each session will be different.
An RBT can expect to be on their feet, especially when working with young children. The job can be highly active, so RBTs must be able to move around freely to play and quickly manage challenging behaviors, like eloping. Often fellow RBTs work as a team, and collaboration with other staff is key to keep therapy running smoothly.
RBTs often participate in training to further their ABA skills and provide the best therapy possible to their clients. Keeping program supervisors and families up-to-date on a client’s progress, goals, and challenges is expected.
The Impact of RBTs on Clients and Families
After what can be an emotional diagnosis, most parents are looking for help. The work of an RBT can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with autism, along with their parents and families. By helping clients develop essential skills and reduce challenging behaviors, RBTs enable them to achieve greater independence and improved social interactions.
Families benefit by gaining support and guidance in managing their loved ones’ behaviors and celebrating their progress. RBTs can help families navigate the ABA world, and help them make informed decisions about how to best support their child’s growth and development.
How Do I Become an RBT?
Many ABA therapists start out as Behavior Technicians. In order to become registered, a therapist will need to complete a 40-hour training course, pass a competency test, and complete ongoing supervision by a BCBA.
At Therapy and Beyond, we pride ourselves in making therapy fun. Registered Behavior Technicians are a vital part of the behavioral health field, providing direct and impactful support. If you’re passionate about helping others and interested in a rewarding career in behavior analysis, becoming an RBT might be the perfect path for you. See how you can become part of Therapy and Beyond.