Why Become an RBT?

Becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) can be an incredibly rewarding career choice, offering a unique blend of personal and professional fulfillment to support children with autism. Often, this career path is seen as an exciting first step into a clinical career with ABA Therapy. Below, we’ve compiled an exciting list of key benefits and considerations for becoming a Registered Behavior Technician.

What is an RBT?

An RBT, or Registered Behavior Technician, is a paraprofessional who provides direct support to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. They work under the close supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) to implement behavior-analytic services related to skill acquisition and behavior modification.   

Think of the BCBA as the architect who designs the treatment plan and the RBT as the skilled builder who brings that plan to life. 

What makes a great RBT? 

• Compassionate and patient: RBTs work with individuals who may have difficulty communicating or managing emotions, requiring patience, understanding, and empathy.  
• Detail-oriented: Accurate data collection is crucial, so RBTs must be meticulous in recording observations and following protocols.  
• Strong communication skills: They must communicate effectively with clients, supervisors, families, and other professionals. 
• ‍Love of knowledge: The field of ABA is constantly evolving, so RBTs should be committed to ongoing learning and professional development.

What does an RBT do?

RBTs work 1:1 with children in their home or school environment, implementing an individualized treatment plan developed specifically for their client’s skills and goals. 

Throughout your career as an RBT, you can expect to grow these skill sets:

• Implementing behavior intervention plans: RBTs use evidence-based strategies to teach new skills, reduce challenging behaviors, and promote independence.  
• Data collection: RBTs track client progress by recording data on behaviors and programs implemented, which helps the BCBA monitor effectiveness and adjust treatment plans.  
• Providing guidance and direct instruction: Registered Behavior Technicians teach clients various skills, such as communication, social skills, and daily living skills, using individualized teaching methods.  
• Creating a supportive learning environment: RBTs foster a positive and encouraging atmosphere to help clients learn and thrive.  ‍
• Collaborating with families and caregivers: They communicate with families and caregivers to share progress updates, address concerns, and provide support.

Why become an RBT?

‍Education requirements

• ‍A great first step: The RBT role can be started with a high school diploma or equivalent, and we provide your training! Training to become an RBT requires 40 hours of self guided instruction and teaching principles with quizzes and knowledge checks. It is quick to get started and learn more about the role right away. If you’ve ever considered transitioning from a corporate-based role to a clinical career, this path may be a great fit for you!

Make a Real Difference

• Directly impact client outcomes: RBTs work 1:1 with clients, helping them learn essential skills and improve their quality of life. You witness firsthand the positive changes in their behavior and development and get to play a pivotal part in their success. 
• Be a part of a supportive team: You collaborate with BCBAs, parents, and other professionals to create and implement individualized treatment plans. This collaborative approach fosters a strong sense of community and shared purpose.
• Build meaningful relationships: You develop strong bonds with your clients and their families, becoming a trusted source of support and encouragement.

Career Growth and Opportunities

• High demand: The need for qualified RBTs is constantly growing, offering job security and diverse opportunities. 
• Advancement potential: RBT certification is a stepping stone to further career advancement in the ABA field. Many RBTs pursue further education to become BCBAs or other professional roles, such as becoming an Occupational Therapist, Speech Pathologist, or working on the administrative side of things as a recruiter or case manager.  At Powerback, we have a career path for the RBTs which allows for growth and development within the company to become a BCBA, or move into another clinical or operations based role within the organization.  

Personal and Professional Development

• Expand soft skills: You develop essential soft skills like communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and patience, which are valuable and transferable.
• Continuous learning: The field of ABA is constantly evolving, providing opportunities for ongoing learning and professional development for clinicians in the field, like RBTs.
• Find personal fulfillment: Knowing that you're making a positive impact on the lives of others can be incredibly fulfilling and contribute to a strong sense of purpose.

Why Powerback Pediatrics?

• Paid training: Powerback Pediatrics offers paid training to help you obtain the necessary hours and skills to work as an RBT. 
• Dedicated administrative support:  As an RBT at Powerback Pediatrics, you will work directly with a Client Advocate to ensure you receive the answers you need in the field. Your Client Advocate is there to help you with scheduling, ensuring that you are getting the hours you are looking for, and to help support you through your onboarding and career progression. 
• Career growth opportunities: At Powerback Pediatrics, we want to support you and your career goals. We offer promotional opportunities within the RBT role to advance in the organization and provide mentorship and support to new RBTs in the field. We also provide supervision and fieldwork opportunities for those who are looking to take the next step and become a BCBA. ‍
• Continued education and training: As the field of ABA therapy grows and evolves, Powerback Pediatrics makes sure that our staff have ongoing training and educational opportunities so that they can keep their skills sharp and continue learning throughout their careers.

If you're passionate about helping others and interested in a career in the growing field of ABA therapy, becoming an RBT could be the perfect path for you!

Click here and apply today for a role as an RBT at Powerback Pediatrics in 10 minutes or less!