If you work around or care for individuals with special needs, you have probably heard about or taken a Registered Behavior Technician (or RBT) certification. Developed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (or BACB), the certification equips students with the basics of behavior analysis geared towards supporting developmentally challenged individuals. It is a well-recognized certification to persons who complete a 40-hourtraining session and pass a proctored exam and a competency assessment and can work with people with special needs.
We have put together a simple guide to explain what RBT certification is. You might find it useful if you haven’t made up your mind about the training yet.
How does the RBT certification empower you?
All RBT practices are under the watchful eye of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or a Board Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). After the RBT competency assessment, an RBT can deliver direct instruction, collect data, implement behavior patterns designed by the BCBA or BCaBA, and maintain a good relationship with both the parents and the community.
Examples of jobs for RBTs
Registered Behavior Technicians essentially work with special needs adults and children. In most cases, they deal with autism cases but the behavioral tactics acquired from the training makes them effective with virtually all developmental disabilities including cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, emotional disturbances and many more. The National Autism Network has even reported that the ABA program can now treat gambling and substance addictions.
What Does It Take To Get The Certification?
It might come as a surprise to you but becoming an RBT via the BACB is quite straightforward. Prospective applicants can begin their applications after their high school education provided they are 18 years and above and have a clean criminal record. The RBT program is offered in a plethora of places including colleges, universities, child enrichment centers, and online training providers.
Once you earn the completion certificate, you should find a BCBA supervisor to sponsor you. You can search by zip code, name, country, state, or province. They will assess to see if you actually aced your RBT Competency Assessment after which they’ll give you a 90-minute RBI exam. If you pass it, you maintain your RBT credentials. If you don’t, you can retake it after one year.
Final Thoughts
By and large, the Registered Behavior Technician certification is a necessary tool for people working with developmentally disabled adults and children. It doesn’t only equip them with the right skills for the job but keeps them on toes knowing that they are under the close supervision of the BACB.
