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What Does a Registered Behavior Technician Do?
A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is a trained paraprofessional who provides direct, hands-on support to individuals with behavioral challenges, most commonly children and adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or other developmental conditions. RBTs implement behavior intervention plans designed to improve communication, social skills, and daily living abilities. They work in a variety of settings, including homes, schools, clinics, and community programs, playing a key role in delivering applied behavior analysis (ABA) services.
To become an RBT, individuals must have a high school diploma or GED, pass a criminal background and abuse registry check, complete a 40-hour behavior technician training course, demonstrate practical skills in a competency assessment, and pass a national certification exam. In addition to the RBT role, the field also includes undergraduate- and graduate-level professionals such as Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBAs) and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Ongoing supervision and continuing education are required to maintain certification, ensuring RBTs deliver evidence-based interventions effectively and ethically. The scope of practice for RBTs is defined by the NRS 437.050.
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