Is Becoming an RBT Right for Me?
- Ashleigh
- Aug 4
- 5 min read
Thinking about a career helping others learn and grow? If you're interested in the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA), becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) could be a great starting point. Not sure if this is the right job for you? This article will help you decide whether or not to embark on a career in ABA.
What is a Registered Behavior Technician?
A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is an entry-level role working in ABA. RBTs work under the supervision of a BCBA. They help clients build new skills and reduce behaviors that interfere with learning, replacing them with more adaptive ones.
Who Do RBTs Work With?
Eighty-five percent of RBTs work with autistic individuals, most commonly autistic children.
However, RBTs may also work with a variety of other populations, including:
Individuals with other intellectual or developmental disabilities
Children in special education settings
Students in general education who need behavioral support
Teens and young adults preparing for independent living
Adults in residential or vocational programs
What Settings Do Behavior Technicians Work In?
Behavior Technicians may work in several different settings, such as:
Clinic/center
School
Clients' homes
Group homes
Community settings (e.g., parks, stores, restaurants, etc.)
What Does an RBT Do?
RBTs deliver individualized therapy directly with their clients. Some RBTs work in group settings; however, most work in a 1:1 capacity. Each learner's treatment plan is unique to their needs, so therapy can look different from client to client—from the goals they focus on to the interventions they use, and even the format of the session.
Some ABA clients learn in a highly structured session format. Others learn in a naturalistic setting, with goals embedded in play. In any case, the RBT is responsible for implementing the treatment plan created by the BCBA and engaging their client in learning activities, as directed by the analyst. Throughout the session, they also collect data on their client's responses and behaviors.
Behavior Technicians teach a wide range of skills across many domains, including:
Communication
Self-advocacy
Social functioning
Daily living skills
Emotional regulation
Academic readiness
Play and leisure skills
Safety awareness
Fine and gross motor skills
They also address a range of harmful or interfering behaviors, such as:
Aggression
Self-injurious behavior
Spitting
"Tantrums" (e.g., screaming, crying, flopping to the floor)
Property destruction
Elopement
Pica
Aside from some documentation (collecting data throughout the session and writing a session note), most of an RBT's role involves direct work with clients. Administrative responsibilities are typically minimal for behavior technicians.
This is a hands-on, active role where your work directly contributes to the growth and development of the individuals you serve. It's incredibly rewarding to watch clients develop new skills, decrease challenging behaviors, and grow.
Traits of a Successful RBT
One's career should be the right fit for their personality, values, and goals. People who thrive in this field often have the following traits.
Patient: Behavior change takes time. Progress is often gradual, and setbacks are common. Not to mention, the work can be physically and emotionally draining at times. Patience is vital when working with individuals who may exhibit challenging behaviors.
Empathetic You'll be supporting individuals and families facing unique challenges. Compassion goes a long way. If you're an empathetic person, this could be the perfect role for you.
Energetic and engaging: Many clients are children with no shortage of energy. Matching their pace can help keep sessions fun and productive. In all fairness, this is not a prerequisite to being a successful RBT. Some clients prefer a calmer presence. The key is being able to efficiently shift your energy level based on the learner's preferences.
Reliable: ABA therapy is a medically necessary service. It's crucial that those entering this field recognize this and only commit to the role if they have the time and energy to dedicate to it. When technicians cancel sessions frequently, their clients may not make the same progress that they would with consistent hours.
Behavior Technician vs. Registered Behavior Technician
This article has explored what a Registered Behavior Technician is, but let's take a step back and compare an RBT with a Behavior Technician (BT). A BT is essentially the same role as an RBT but without the certification from the BACB. Insurance companies are increasingly requiring technicians to be certified RBTs.
A BT position can be a great entry point into the ABA field if companies in your area hire those without the certification. Many employers offer on-the-job training and may even cover the cost of RBT certification. However, without the formal credential, a Behavior Technician is not recognized by the BACB and is not subject to the same standard training, testing, and oversight. The quality of training for BTs can vary considerably based on the organization.
Becoming an RBT offers professional accountability and more job opportunities. However, if you can get your foot in the door as a BT, you'll likely save money.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Before starting the process of becoming an RBT and applying for positions, ask yourself the following questions. Reflect on your answers to consider whether or not this is the right position for you.
Do I enjoy working directly with people, especially children?
Can I handle challenging behaviors calmly and professionally?
Am I open to ongoing supervision, feedback, and professional development?
Am I interested in a career in human services, psychology, or education?
Am I physically able to stay active during sessions (e.g., sitting on the floor, playing, transitioning between locations)?
Do I find fulfillment in helping others?
In my current season of life, can I commit to consistent attendance, so the clients can depend on me?
Career Growth and Outlook
The demand for RBTs has sharply risen since the BACB first introduced the certification in 2014. As awareness and diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have increased, so has the need for ABA professionals.
RBTs are in high demand across the U.S. This high demand offers job stability and opportunities for growth. Many RBTs go on to pursue advanced roles in the field, such as BCaBAs and BCBAs. Others go on to work in related fields, like education, speech therapy, social work, or special needs nannying.
RBT Compensation
RBT pay rates can vary based on state, work setting, and organization. According to a 2025 BT salary analysis, the median hourly rate for RBTs is $22.50. Some RBT positions are salaried or guarantee hours. However, most positions pay hourly.
Education and Certification Requirements
If you think this might be the right job for you, the good news is that the certification process is straightforward and accessible. To become a Registered Behavior Technician, you’ll need to complete the following steps:
Have a high school diploma or equivalent
Pass a background check and abuse registry check
Complete a 40-hour RBT training course
Pass a competency assessment conducted by a qualified supervisor
Pass the RBT exam
Earning RBT certification can be done in as little as a few weeks to a few months. This makes it an accessible path to enter the field of behavior analysis and begin a meaningful career, whether you plan to stay in the RBT role long term or use it as a stepping stone to becoming a BCBA or another professional.
Find A Behavior Technician Job
Ready to start your RBT job search? Explore behavior technician positions on the ABA Job Board, an ABA-specific job board with positions across the US.
Comments