What is a day in the life of an RBT like? Becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is an exciting career path for people who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of unique individuals. In ABA therapy, RBTs are a paraprofessional role tasked with carrying out day-to-day activities that help clients learn new skills and reduce problem behaviors. Working closely with a BCBA, you will implement a behavior plan.
What do RBTs do?
RBTs work in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) uses data-verified science to help individuals learn new skills, reduce challenging behaviors, and work toward their goals. Therapists work to help identify what behaviors might be holding a person back, what skills they need help developing, and how their environment shapes their behavior. While ABA is most commonly associated with children on the Autism spectrum, ABA therapy is effective in a variety of contexts.
After the Assessment by the BCBA, RBTs work directly with clients on their target skills. Daily session activities might include games, puzzles, learning tools, or sensory activities depending on the goals of the assessment. With a good RBT, these activities should look and feel like play, even if there are learning objectives involved. RBTs collect data at every session, and report changes, concerns, and progress to their clinical supervisors.
How to Become an RBT
How do you become an RBT? The RBT certification is a paraprofessional certification governed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). While you need this certification to work as an RBT, it is common to accept a position at a company before obtaining this certification. Then, the company will provide you with the training to do your work, as well as connecting you with a BCBA who will be able to sign off on your competencies. The only qualifications to become an RBT are a high school diploma or equivalent, are 18 years or older, and pass a criminal background and abuse registry check.
To work as an RBT, you must complete your 40-Hour RBT training course. This is usually included as part of the training/onboarding process at most ABA Agencies. In this course, participants learn about the basis of ABA therapy, ethical considerations, how to collect data, and the ins and outs of behavior intervention.
After the course, you must pass the RBT competency exam. This exam is performed by a BCBA, and usually involves some form of roleplay or working with an actual client. The BCBA will measure the RBT’s ability to perform common therapy tasks accurately and appropriately. Once the BCBA has determined that the participant has all the necessary competencies to work one-on-one with clients, you are ready to move on to the next step.
The next step is to apply to take the RBT exam by applying to the BACB. You will need to submit your training certifications, competency assessment, and background check. Then, you will take the RBT exam, testing your knowledge on everything you have learned.
You will get your results immediately after taking the exam. With hard work and preparation – you’re well on your way to a rewarding and impactful career!
Day-to-Day RBT Responsibilities
As an RBT, you will work with a variety of clients in a variety of settings. You may work with a young client at the clinic during the day, and work with a slightly older client in their home in the afternoons. Everyone’s case load is unique! Speaking of unique – the needs of each of your clients will vary. That’s why it’s so important that you’re trained to have a strong working understanding of ABA therapy and its applications.
RBTs start each day by reviewing their schedules, recent paperwork, and the goals of each of their clients. They use this information to plan what activities they will use with each client. Then, they will begin setting up and preparing to see each client. Throughout the day while working with clients, RBTs are expected to write daily progress notes detailing the clients progress towards goals as listed in the assessment as well as collecting data..
For more information about what to expect from ABA Therapy, check out this article!
About ABA-LLC
ABA-LLC is one of the largest suppliers of Behavior Support in the State of Kentucky. Since 2007, the agency has created innovative strategies to improve the lives of unique individuals. ABA-LLC contracts with around 160 contractors, each dedicated to building an inclusive culture that celebrates individuals of all abilities. No matter who you are, you can reach your goals at ABA-LLC.
In everything the agency does, ABA-LLC is set apart from its competitors by its uniquely person-centered approach. The agency strives to provide services from a place of deep love for the population they serve. Their work exemplifies the belief that every individual has a right to live a fulfilling and independent life integrated within their communities. There is no objective to change a person, but rather to give them the tools they need to succeed. B.F. Skinner summarizes this vision in his quote: “I’m not trying to change people. All I want is to change the world in which they live.”