Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a field that has grown immensely in recent years, so it is no wonder that many people are pursuing careers in the field. If you are new to the world of ABA, you may still be navigating exactly what ‘ABA’ means and what occurs during an ABA therapy session. At a basic level, ABA examines behavior and how behaviors are affected by different environments, as well as the function of behaviors. This information helps to change problematic behaviors by building positive behaviors.
ABA is now widely used, as there is scientific evidence to support its success. There are different credentials that professionals in the field can choose to obtain to provide ABA services, including BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst), BCaBA (Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst), or RBT (Registered Behavior Technician).
What is a RBT?
A RBT, or Registered Behavior Technician, is a therapist who provides behavior analysis services. While a BCBA is able to provide services without supervision, a RBT (or “behavior tech”) must practice under the supervision of a BCBA or BCaBA. This means that the RBT is not the primary therapist creating treatment plans for children in ABA therapy; the supervising BCBA or BCaBA would be responsible for this task. However, the RBT will still be able to provide behavior analysis services directly to the client.
Credentials to become a RBT
In order to become an RBT, you must first earn your high school diploma and be at least 18 years old. These are the first requirements. Next, you must complete the training requirements for RBT. This component is 40 hours of training, which is provided by a BCBA or a BCaBA. There is the option to complete this entirely online, but you can also complete the training in person. The majority of the training involves providing professional services, but three or more hours will cover ethics and professional conduct, as set by the BACB (Behavior Analyst Certification Board). Individuals pursuing the RBT certification must also submit a background check. Next, aspiring RBTs must complete the RBT Competency Assessment and subsequent RBT exam.
To learn more about the details of the RBT certification process, visit the BACB website. The BACB is the organization that provides official information for behavior analysis professionals.
Are you interested in learning more about how a Registered Behavior Technician could help your child through ABA therapy?
Chicago ABA Therapy offers services from RBTs for children in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, along with speech therapy, occupational therapy and a therapeutic preschool program.
Click the button below or call (773)630-4400.
