Hey all you future Registered Behavior Technicians® (RBT®)! You’ve probably heard of this credential, and thought, what exactly do RBTs® do? Besides having one of the most rewarding jobs, RBTs® are the backbone of behavior analysis. They are the ones on the front line, making the magic of behavior analysis come to life.

In short, an RBT® is a certified paraprofessional, who delivers behavior analysis services under the supervision of a qualified RBT supervisor, such as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®). Like the BCBA® and BCaBA® credentials, an RBT® is certified through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®).

While the BCBA®, or BCaBA®, is responsible for program oversight and creating intervention plans, the RBT® is responsible for carrying out the programs. This includes providing direct ABA therapy, collecting data and implementing behavior intervention plans. RBTs® are also responsible for maintaining professional relationships with clients and must abide by the RBT® Code of Ethics. Typical pay for an RBT® can range from $15-$23 an hour, depending on location and funding source.

So how do you become an RBT®? You must follow this task analysis:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • At least 18 years old
  • Pass a criminal background check
  • Complete a 40-hour RBT® Training Course
  • Pass RBT® Competency Assessment
  • Pass RBT® Exam

For more information on the RBT® certification, visit the BACB® website at www.bacb.com

Happy preppin’!

Xo BehaviorPrep

A. Behaviorism and Philosophical Foundations (8 questions)

A.1. Identify the goals of behavior analysis as a science (i.e., description, prediction, control).

A.2. Explain the philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis (e.g., selectionism, determinism, empiricism, parsimony, pragmatism).

A.3. Explain behavior from the perspective of radical behaviorism.

A.4. Distinguish among behaviorism, the experimental analysis of behavior, applied behavior analysis, and professional practice guided by the science of behavior analysis.

A.5. Identify and describe dimensions of applied behavior analysis.