Passing the examination to become an RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) can seem daunting, but is actually quite simple.
Are you passionate about helping those with special needs? Becoming an RBT might be the perfect career path for you. RBTs play a fundamentally crucial role in providing behavioral support to individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. RBTs are the ones who get hand-on experience with these clients.
This blog post will guide you through the steps to become an RBT.
Understand the Role of an RBT:
Before embarking on your journey to become an RBT, it's essential to have a clear understanding of the responsibilities and expectations associated with the role. RBTs work under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and are responsible for implementing behavior treatment plans, collecting data, and assisting in the assessment and analysis of behavior. RBTs are absolutely vital to the field of behavior analysis.
Meet the Eligibility Requirements:
To become an RBT in the USA, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, which typically include:
Minimum age of 18 years
High school diploma or equivalent
Completion of at least 40 hours of training in behavior analysis principles and practices
Completion of a criminal background check
Obtain the Required Training:
To fulfill the training requirement, you must complete a 40-hour Registered Behavior Technician training program approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). This training provides you with a solid foundation and understanding in behavior analysis, ethical considerations, and practical skills needed to work as an RBT. ABA Wizard has a study app to help you increase literacy in the field of ABA, as well as a mock exam to help you prepare for the real thing. You must still be under the supervision of a BCBA during this period.
Gain Hands-on Experience:
After completing the required training, it is crucial to gain practical experience working directly with individuals with special needs. Most states require a certain number of supervised fieldwork hours before you can apply for RBT certification. This experience allows you to apply the knowledge gained during your training and develop essential skills in behavior observation, data collection, and intervention implementation.
Pass the RBT Competency Assessment:
Once you have acquired the necessary training and fieldwork experience, you must pass the RBT Competency Assessment. The assessment evaluates your ability to apply the principles and techniques of behavior analysis effectively. A qualified BCBA supervisor will assess your competency in various areas of RBT practice.
Apply for RBT Certification:
When you successfully complete the competency assessment, you can apply for RBT certification through the BACB's online portal. The application process typically involves submitting your training certificate, verification of fieldwork experience, and paying the certification fee. The BACB will review your application and, upon approval, issue your RBT certification.
Maintain RBT Certification:
To maintain your RBT certification, you should follow the BACB's ethical guidelines and meet ongoing requirements, such as:
Complete annual renewal and recertification processes.
Fulfill continuing education requirements.
Stay updated with the latest research and best practices in the field of ABA.
Becoming a Registered Behavior Technician can be a rewarding career choice, allowing you to positively impact the lives of individuals with special needs and their families. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can embark on a fulfilling journey towards becoming an RBT. Remember, dedication, continuous learning, and a genuine passion for helping others will be key to your success as an RBT.
*For more information on how to become an RBT, please visit the BACB website for more thorough information.