Today’s post is written by Talent Acquisition Specialist, Tia Johnson, and tackles some of the most common questions (answers) about becoming an RBT. Check it out!
First Things First… What is an RBT?
A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is a credentialed professional who practices Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) under the close, ongoing supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. As an RBT, you will directly implement skill acquisition*(check the glossary at the end of this blog post for some key RBT terms) and behavior reduction* plans developed by your supervisor. Once you’re an RBT, you join others in becoming a nationally-credentialed provider!
How do I Become an RBT?
Becoming an RBT is a pretty simple process! In addition to being at least 18 years old and having a high school diploma/equivalent, you must:
- Complete 40 hours of RBT Training (often offered online)
- Pass a criminal background check
- Pass the RBT Competency Assessment with a BCBA*
- Pass the RBT exam at a Pearson Vue testing site
For more information, check out the BACB website.
How will I use my RBT credential?
How will I use my RBT credential?Verbal Beginnings employees use their RBT credential to help children progress with developmental skills including communication, social skills, life skills like hand-washing and toileting, and managing behavior. They work 1:1 with students using the science of behavior analysis to create opportunities for positive reinforcement*, tracked by data collection that shows us whether progress is being made towards goals.
What Does the Job of an RBT Look Like?
Our in-home positions have part-time caseloads with anywhere from 6-30 hours/week depending on your availability, clients’ availability, and driving distance to client homes. If you are available from 7:30am-5:30pm Monday through Friday, you may be eligible for our full-time positions available at our Early Intervention Center in Columbia, MD.
What Should I Expect?
Starting out, you’ll get weekly training from your BCBA in order to gain a solid understanding of ABA techniques and your specific clients’ programming. We train employees using the Behavioral Skills Training approach, a process involving instruction, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback. In session, you’ll work with your BCBA who will ensure your training transitions from observation and shadowing to direct ABA implementation with children. As directed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), you should expect to receive ongoing training and supervision even after becoming an RBT.
What are the Benefits of Becoming an RBT?
Becoming an RBT shows investment and commitment to clients and families. As an RBT, you’ll open more doors for educational growth, professional advancement, and opportunities to hone skills. There’s no greater reward than being able to help others! As an RBT, you’ll become an expert in behavior management* and skill development, ensuring client success and family satisfaction.
Where Does Verbal Beginnings Come in?
For all of our employees, Verbal Beginnings offers the 40-hour training as well as the competency required to sit for the RBT exam as a part of the job! We cover the cost of the coursework and time spent on the online RBT training coursework. We also provide reimbursement once you sit and pass the RBT exam!
How do I Apply?
Apply to a job posting for your area here. If you are a motivated, passionate person who really enjoys working with children and collaborating with others to drive results, we would love to speak with you!
Interested in RBT training and joining a company that will help get you where you want to go? Visit our website to learn more about our all-in, people-first approach.
*BONUS: Glossary of Common ABA Terms
ADLs: Activities of Daily Living often used at-home and in community settings (we know them as “self-help skills”). Common ADLs include feeding ourselves, bathing, dressing, grooming, work, homemaking, grocery shopping.
BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst): Board-certified, masters-level clinician who is trained to provide and supervise Behavior Analysis.
Behavior Reduction: When targeting less desirable behaviors, you may use methods of unrecognizing and not positively reinforcing those behaviors. When implemented immediately after the target behavior occurs, behavior reduction strategies reduce the probability that the target behavior will recur.
Behavior Skills Training Approach: A training model for teaching a new skill that involves instruction, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback.
Behavior Management: The use of different techniques to prevent socially inappropriate behaviors and maintain or increase socially acceptable behaviors.
Pairing: Building a good rapport with your client. You’ll spend lots of time gaining your clients’ trust in working with you and increasing their motivation to learn by pairing yourself with positive reinforcements. When pairing, you’ll focus on keeping your client active and engaged without making demands.
Reinforcement: The change in the environment following a behavior which increases the likelihood of the behavior happening again. It can be Positive or Negative.
Skill Acquisition: Teaching new skills rooted in academics, self-care, motor skills, and social skills (i.e. brushing teeth, handwashing, asking for help).
