What’s This RBT Thing I Keep Hearing About?

Have you ever wondered how you can make a positive social impact in this world and be financially stable at the same time? I know I did, and I have been blessed to work in the field of ABA where I can live out this dream every day. My journey started as a behavioral technician- where I worked directly with children who had an Autism diagnosis , to now as a BCaBA (Board Certified assistant Behavior Analyst). I want to share with you how you can live this dream out as well, by becoming a Registered
Behavior Technician (RBT).

What is an RBT?
Registered Behavior Technician ( better known as an RBT) is a credentialed entry-level professional who works with children and/or adults with Autism or other special needs. The RBT works under the direction of a behavior analyst using ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) techniques to teach a child/adult with special needs to be better prepared for Life! As an RBT, you will work directly with the client one-on-one in implementing programs created by a behavior analyst to teach the client how to be most
successful.

Who can become an RBT?
Practically anyone who is 18 years or older, possesses a High School diploma, G.E.D. or equivalent. After you have these prerequisites then you can start your journey to becoming an RBT.

The journey to become an RBT!
After you have the prerequisites, the journey to working and adding the RBT credential behind your name is as easy as 1-2- 3-4.

1. Complete a 40-hour RBT Training
a. This training will educate you on how you can teach and have a positive social
impact with people having special needs using ABA techniques.

b. The training will cover all areas outlined on the RBT Task List by the
international credentialing body for ABA practitioners called the BACB (Behavior
Analyst Certification Board)
c. A great part about this training is that you will be able to apply the information
the first day you start the course.

2. Pass a Competency Assessment
a. This is a verbal and performance assessment conducted by a Supervising
Behavior Analyst (a.k.a Responsible Certificant) with the perspective RBT
b. This assessment will measure how you implement ABA techniques from what
you have learned in the 40-hour RBT Training.

3. Apply for the RBT Examination with the BACB
a. You will need the following to apply:
i. Successfully completed the RBT 40-hour training
ii. Pass the RBT Competency Assessment
iii. Completed a Background Check
iv. H.S. Diploma, G.E.D. certification, and/or transcript
v. Identify the Responsible Certificant who will do on-going Supervision

4. Take the BACB Exam
a. Schedule a date and time to take the exam
b. Take the RBT Exam at the testing site
c. And at the completion of the exam, you will know immediately if you have been
credentialed as an RBT. (Talk about Positive Reinforcement at its finest!)

For me, working as an entry-level behavioral technician was my foot-in-the-door to work with children with autism and have financial stability.  It will only take 4 steps for you to make a positive social impact and have the appropriate training to successfully work with children with autism or special needs.  In turn, you can make your dreams a reality too!