How to Become a Behavior Technician?

Becoming a Behavior Technician

If you're interested in helping individuals overcome behavioral challenges, particularly children with autism, becoming a behavior technician could be a rewarding career choice. This role involves implementing behavior reduction and skill acquisition treatment plans under the supervision of a behavior analyst. It requires a unique set of qualities and specific education and training.

Qualities of Successful Technicians

Successful behavior technicians possess a range of qualities that enable them to excel in their roles. Key qualities include compassion and empathy, which are essential for understanding and responding to the emotional needs of their clients. Discretion is another vital attribute, as technicians often handle sensitive information.

They should also have excellent communication skills for effective interaction with clients, supervisors, and colleagues. Time management skills are crucial as technicians often work with multiple clients and must efficiently manage their schedules. Lastly, the ability to build and maintain relationships helps create a positive and supportive environment for their clients.

Prior experience in a behavioral health setting can enhance these skills and provide valuable insights into the role. For more information on the responsibilities and tasks of a behavior technician, check out our article on what does a behavior technician do?.

Required Education and Training

To become a behavior technician, individuals can pursue training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ABA focuses on applying behavior principles to real-world situations, helping individuals overcome behavioral challenges. This approach is particularly beneficial for children with developmental disorders [2].

The standard credential for behavior health technicians is the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT®) certification. To earn this credential, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. They must complete a 40-hour training course, which includes at least three hours in ethics and professional conduct. Also, Registered Behavior Technicians need to be supervised at least 5% of the time they provide ABA services each month [3].

This training is suitable for parents, educators, or other professionals interested in learning evidence-based ABA principles to assist clients or family members with developmental behavior challenges [4].

Becoming a behavior technician provides an opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of individuals facing behavioral challenges. For more information on this role, read our article on what is a behavior technician?.

Career Path in Behavior Analysis

Becoming a behavior technician opens up a range of opportunities in the field of behavior analysis. This section will discuss the various working environments and salary expectations for behavior technicians.

Working Environments

Behavior technicians provide critical support to behavior analysts, implementing treatment plans for patients suffering from various behavioral conditions. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, mental health facilities, and patients' homes [1].

Behavior analysts, on the other hand, have the opportunity to work in diverse environments such as schools, healthcare facilities, nursing homes, therapy centers, and even in the homes of individuals. They often work with patients who have developmental differences like autism or ADHD [5].

For a more detailed understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a behavior technician, please visit our article on what does a behavior technician do?.

Salary Expectations

The salary for professionals in the field of behavior analysis can vary based on credentials and certification level. Entry-level Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) professionals can expect to earn around $33,000 annually. However, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) have a higher earning potential, with an average annual salary of about $70,000. A doctoral degree can further increase this average to around $85,000 per year.

Credential Level	Average Annual Salary
RBT	$33,000
BCBA	$70,000
Doctoral degree	$85,000

The field of behavior analysis is both rewarding and challenging, with diverse opportunities for those who are committed to making a difference. If you're interested in understanding more about this role, you can read about what is a behavior technician? on our website.

Techniques and Approaches

In the journey of becoming a behavior technician, understanding the techniques and approaches used is crucial. A behavior technician uses a set of strategies and therapies to modify behavior, especially in individuals with autism.

Behavior Modification Strategies

Behavior modification strategies are methods used by behavior analysts to change or alter behavior patterns. These strategies involve changing the antecedents or consequences of a behavior. For example, positive reinforcement is emphasized in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to bring about behavior change. This technique involves rewarding an individual when they exhibit a desired behavior, thereby increasing the likelihood of the behavior being repeated.

Another popular behavior modification strategy is the use of token economy systems. In this system, individuals are given tokens as a form of positive reinforcement for exhibiting certain behaviors. These tokens can then be exchanged for rewards, providing a tangible motivation for the individual to continue demonstrating the desired behavior.

Such strategies are commonly used by behavior technicians in various settings to facilitate behavior change and promote positive behavior patterns. For a more detailed understanding of the role of a behavior technician, check out our articles on what is a behavior technician? and what does a behavior technician do?.

Therapy Methods

In addition to behavior modification strategies, therapy methods play a critical role in the approach of a behavior technician. One such method is the Discrete Trial Training (DTT), a structured method of teaching in which a task is broken down into smaller sub-tasks and taught individually to ensure mastery.

Another therapy used by behavior analysts is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This method addresses issues like depression, anxiety, and phobias in the internal space. ACT involves using acceptance and mindfulness strategies, combined with commitment and behavior change strategies, to increase psychological flexibility.

These therapy methods and strategies equip behavior technicians with the necessary tools to effectively work with individuals with autism, helping them improve their behavior and quality of life. As you move forward on your path to becoming a behavior technician, it's essential to master these techniques and approaches to maximize your impact and effectiveness in this rewarding career.

Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) Certification

The Registered Behavior Technician® (RBT®) is a globally recognized certification in behavior analysis. It provides a set standard for professionals, such as behavior technicians, who implement Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services. To become a certified RBT, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements and complete a specific training and examination process.

Eligibility and Requirements

To become an RBT, applicants must meet minimum age and education criteria. They should be 18 years or older and a high school or equivalent graduate. After meeting these basic requirements, prospective RBTs must obtain 40 hours of acceptable training, successfully complete a Competency Assessment, pass a criminal background check, and finally, clear the RBT Exam.

The RBT training is suitable for educators, parents, or other professionals interested in learning evidence-based ABA principles and strategies to assist clients or family members with developmental behavior challenges, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders.

After completing the 40-hour online training, individuals are required to find a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) to perform an initial Competency Assessment.

Training and Examination Process

The training course for becoming an RBT equips individuals with evidence-based behavior intervention techniques and strategies. Covering topics such as Data Measurement, Assessment, Skill Acquisition, Behavior Reduction, Documentation and Reporting, Professional Conduct, and Scope of Practice, the course aligns with all tasks and subtasks in the RBT Task List and incorporates relevant ethics requirements for behavior technicians.

The RBT training is at least 40 hours long and can be completed at the individual's own pace on any Internet-accessible personal computer or mobile device. The training must be completed within 180 days (6 months) of the date of purchase, and it should not be completed in less than five days. None of the training hours are live instruction; all 40 hours are conducted online.

Once the training is complete, the aspirants must pass the RBT exam, which tests their knowledge and understanding of the principles and techniques learned during the training.

Achieving RBT certification sets the path for a rewarding career in behavior analysis and provides individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. For more information about the role of a behavior technician, please visit our articles on what is a behavior technician? and what does a behavior technician do?.

Benefits and Opportunities

Choosing to become a behavior technician opens a world of opportunities and benefits, both in terms of personal growth and professional advancement. Let's delve into the impact of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy and the potential career growth and specializations in this field.

Impact of ABA Therapy

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy plays a vital role in improving the lives of people with developmental disabilities and behavioral challenges. It has practical applications in various settings such as mental health, classrooms, alcohol/drug treatment programs, workplaces, and public health interventions. A study found that ABA improved behaviors, language, social abilities, and play skills [2].

As a behavior technician, you will be implementing these ABA strategies and directly contributing to the positive development of those coping with behavioral challenges. You can learn more about the role and responsibilities of a behavior technician in our article what does behavior technician do?.

Career Growth and Specializations

Starting your career as a behavior technician is just the beginning. With further education and certification, you can explore a range of exciting career paths. Here are a few potential roles:

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): After acquiring an M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis, you can become a BCBA. In this role, you'll conduct assessments, design behavior intervention plans, and oversee their implementation. To practice as a BCBA, you must pass the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) exam.
Clinical Supervisor: These professionals guide and oversee behavior analysts and technicians working directly with clients. They review data, ensure correct implementation of treatment plans, provide feedback and training, and create/assess programs and procedures. Licensing requirements vary by state [6].
Applied Behavior Analysis Professor: With an M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis, you may choose to teach courses in the field at undergraduate or graduate levels. Responsibilities include creating lesson plans, presenting to students, assessing coursework, advising/mentoring aspiring behavior analysts, and conducting research studies. Some institutions require a Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis for this role.

Each of these roles offers unique opportunities to make a difference in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and behavioral challenges, while also offering avenues for professional growth and development. To learn more about the path to becoming a behavior technician, visit our article how to become behavior technician?.