How To Become a Registered Behavior Technician

How to Become a Registered Behavior Technician

If you are looking to pursue a career in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is a great way to start.

RBTs work under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) to provide therapy to individuals with autism and other developmental disorders. In this article, we will discuss the steps you need to take to become an RBT.

Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements

To become an RBT, you must meet the eligibility requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). These requirements include:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Holding a high school diploma or equivalent
• Completing 40 hours of training in ABA principles and ethics
• Passing a criminal background check
• Passing the RBT competency assessment

Step 2: Complete the Required Training

To meet the 40-hour training requirement, you can either take an RBT training course or complete the training independently using the RBT Task List and the RBT Competency Assessment. Many organizations offer RBT training courses, which cover topics such as behavior assessment, data collection, and behavior intervention. These courses can be taken online or in-person.

There are plenty of ABA therapy companies across the U.S. that are hiring for RBTs. Check out ABATherapistJobs.com, the first job board for ABA therapists to find full-time and part-time RBT jobs.

Step 3: Pass the RBT Competency Assessment

Once you have completed the required training, you must pass the RBT Competency Assessment. This assessment evaluates your ability to apply the skills you learned during your training. The assessment consists of a written exam and a skills assessment, which must be completed under the supervision of a BCBA.

Step 4: Apply for RBT Certification

After passing the RBT Competency Assessment, you can apply for RBT certification through the BACB. The application fee is $50, and you must provide proof of your eligibility and completion of the training and assessment requirements.

Step 5: Maintain Your RBT Certification

To maintain your RBT certification, you must complete continuing education requirements and renew your certification annually. The continuing education requirements include completing 20 hours of training in ABA principles and ethics every two years and passing a criminal background check every year.

How Long Does It Take To Become An RBT?

The time it takes to become an RBT can vary depending on your schedule and the training program you choose. Some RBT training courses can be completed in as little as a week, while others may take several months to complete.

Additionally, the time it takes to pass the RBT Competency Assessment and receive certification can also vary.

Once you have completed all of the requirements, including passing the competency assessment and submitting your application, it generally takes around 4-6 weeks for the BACB to process your application and grant certification. Overall, becoming an RBT is a great way to start a career in ABA and help individuals with developmental disorders achieve their full potential.

Can You Be An RBT Without A Degree?

Yes, you can become an RBT without a degree. The only educational requirement to become an RBT is to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. However, it's important to note that some employers may prefer or require applicants to have some college education in a related field, such as psychology or education.

Additionally, pursuing higher education in ABA can open up more career opportunities and potentially lead to higher salaries. For those interested in pursuing further education in ABA, there are certificate programs, undergraduate degrees, and graduate degrees available.

Ultimately, whether or not you have a degree should not deter you from pursuing a career as an RBT if you meet the eligibility requirements and are passionate about helping individuals with developmental disorders. If you're ready to get hired as an RBT, then visit abatherapistjobs.com, a job board that lists some of the best RBT jobs available.

How Hard Is It To Become An RBT?

The difficulty of becoming an RBT can vary depending on your background and experience with ABA principles.

For those who are new to the field, the training and competency assessment may require a significant amount of time and effort to complete. However, for those with prior experience or education in ABA or related fields, the process may be more manageable.

It's important to note that while becoming an RBT may not be easy, it is certainly achievable with dedication and hard work.

The training and certification requirements are designed to ensure that individuals providing therapy to those with developmental disorders have the necessary skills and knowledge to do so effectively. By completing these requirements, you will be well-prepared to begin your career as an RBT and make a meaningful impact in the lives of those you serve.

Do People Like Being RBTs?

While the demands of the job can be challenging, many RBTs find their work to be incredibly rewarding. Being an RBT allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with developmental disorders and their families, helping them achieve important goals and milestones.

In addition, many RBTs enjoy the variety that comes with working in different settings and with different clients. Whether you are working in a school, clinic, or home setting, each day can bring new challenges and opportunities for growth.

Of course, like any job, there are also potential downsides to being an RBT. The work can be emotionally taxing at times, and the pay may not always reflect the level of skill and dedication required for the job. However, for those who are passionate about helping others and making a difference in their communities, being an RBT can be a fulfilling and meaningful career choice.

Conclusion

Becoming an RBT is a rewarding career path for those interested in helping individuals with developmental disorders. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can become an RBT and make a positive impact on the lives of those you work with.