What is an RBT and what do they do?
An RBT, short for registered behavior technician, works directly with individuals, often children, who have autism or other developmental disabilities under the supervision of a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA). RBTs provide behavioral intervention in various settings helping to improve their clients’ social, motor, language, communication and cognitive skills.
RBTs work with their clients to help them learn new skills and improve their behavior using applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy. ABA therapy is a type of interpersonal therapy in which a child works with a practitioner one-on-one with a goal of improving social skills through intervention-based principles of learning. RBTs tailor their delivery of ABA therapy to the individual needs of each client. ABA therapy occurs in a variety of settings with the goal of helping children on the autism spectrum function as independently and successfully as possible, reducing problem behaviors like aggression and self-injuries. RBTs are responsible for collecting information on their clients’ progress and reporting back to their supervisors, usually a BCBA.
How do I become an RBT?
Becoming an RBT can be incredibly rewarding due to the hands-on experience working with clients. The current requirements to become an RBT can be found in the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s (BACB) RBT handbook. It’s important to check the latest requirements, as these change over time. Firstly, at the time of publishing this article the minimum requirements to obtain RBT certification include:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a background and abuse registry check.
An Attesting Certificant will confirm these requirements no more than 180 days prior to you submitting your RBT certification application. Your Attesting Certificant will need to sign an RBT Certification Application Attestation form no later than 90 days after you officially apply, which you will attach with your official application.
Next, you must complete a 40-hour training that meets the requirements outlined in the RBT 40-Hour Training Packet. This training may be completed in no less than five days and in no more than 180 days. Include a copy of your 40-hour training certificate with your application. Companies like Maxim Healthcare Services may assist you in receiving your hours of paid behavioral training and ongoing training opportunities that you need.
Lastly, you must complete a competency assessment no more than 90 days before you submit your RBT certification application. Include the completed assessment with your application.
You will receive notice and further instructions by the BACB if your application is approved. You have one year from the day your application is approved to take an examination which tests your knowledge on the current RBT Task List. This assessment involves a direct observation of your competencies by a BCBA. They will evaluate you, as well as a client, so they can witness how proficiently you demonstrate your tasks. Alternatively, your BCBA assessor can role play as the client for you.
After receiving your certification, you must maintain the requirements as an RBT of receiving supervision of ABA delivery and adhering to the RBT ethics code. Finally, within 45 days before expiration of your certification, you must complete a renewal competency assessment and application.
Day in the life of an RBT
RBTs play a crucial role in the implementation of ABA therapy as they work directly with clients. They may begin their day by reviewing client notes and treatment plans to prepare for sessions. They may also set up equipment needed for skill building like toys or other communication devices.
During a session, RBTs work individually with clients to teach new skills and behaviors using ABA therapy techniques. For example, they may use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior or redirect difficult behaviors using certain strategies like modeling.
They also collaborate with other professionals for a client’s care, like speech therapists or occupational therapists. There might be team meetings for collaborative work to share information and impressions. By the end of the day, RBTs complete their documentation and submit it to their supervisors for review. This data helps their supervisors adjust goals or treatment plans as needed.
Career outlook for RBTs
According to the Centers for Disease Control, one-in-36 8-year-old children have been identified with autism spectrum disorder, which is an increase from the previous estimate of one-in-44. As the number of individuals diagnosed with autism continues to increase, the need for specially trained and credentialed professionals in the behavioral analysis field will as well.
A rewarding career as an RBT at Maxim Healthcare Services
Maxim Healthcare Services is currently hiring RBTs in nine states. Maxim provides quality care in home and community-based environments. Our clinical team use a flexible, empathy-based approach tailored to the needs of each client. Visit our careers site to explore our open positions. Not ready to apply? Subscribe to our talent community for personalized job notifications and Maxim updates.
