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A young boy in a blue shirt holds a large teddy bear while sitting beside a woman in an office setting. The woman, whose face is turned slightly away, appears to be taking notes or drawing. The boy looks directly at the camera with a calm expression.
Nov. 15, 2024

 

What is a Behavior Technician?

BTs implement treatment plans created by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) to help clients learn essential skills. They teach new skills, address problematic behaviors, and use reinforcement to encourage progress. They foster a positive learning environment throughout sessions and monitor the client's development to ensure the treatment plan is effective.


 

What Does a Behavior Technician Do? 

I went back to school during the pandemic. I'm older than the traditional student, and when I ended a 5-year relationship last year, I was having a hard time and needed something to look forward to. It occurred to me that I could study abroad! I love Italy and was looking forward to traveling there again, so it felt like the perfect fit when I saw the program at the American University of Rome. (UAR)

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A child sits on the floor playing with a puzzle.

Core Responsibilities: 

  • Direct Support: One-on-one therapy sessions tailored to the patient/client's needs and goals. This involves implementing behavior intervention strategies and skill acquisition programs designed by the BCBA.
  • Progress Monitoring: Meticulously collect and record data on client behavior throughout each session, allowing the BCBA to track progress and make data-driven decisions.
  • Skill Development: Assist patients/clients in developing essential daily living skills, such as self-care and household tasks, as well as social skills, like communication and interaction.
  • Collaboration: Maintain open communication with parents/caregivers, providing updates on their loved one's progress and collaborating on consistently implementing the therapy plan.

 

Real World Example:

To help a young child with autism learn to communicate their needs, a Behavior Technician might use picture cards. The BT might start by teaching the child to associate the picture with the desired item or action (e.g., a picture of a glass of water to request a drink). Gradually, they would work toward the child independently using the picture cards to communicate their wants and needs.

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An adult and child sit on the floor. The adult is observing the child as he gazes up at the ceiling.

Required Skills and Qualifications 

Working as a BT allows you to develop the soft skills (communication, empathy) and hard skills (data collection, intervention) needed for the role. You'll refine these skills by interacting with diverse individuals across different environments and cognitive abilities. While engaging in sensitive conversations is often required, maintaining professionalism and positivity helps build client trust and rapport.

Helpful skills for a behavioral technician:

  • Empathy
  • Compassion
  • Organization
  • Discretion
  • Patience
  • Communication
  • Detail oriented

 

 

 

  • Time management
  • Flexibility
  • Collaboration
  • Multitasking
  • Basic data entry

Behavior Technician Salary

The job outlook for BTs is very positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of psychiatric technicians (which includes BTs) will grow 11% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. The salary for a BT can vary based on location, experience, and qualifications.   

Entry-level salary: Around $47,000 per year   

Experienced RBTs: Over $66,000 per year   

How to Become a Behavior Technician

You will need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may prefer an associate's or bachelor's degree. While some roles may be open to those with less formal education, a bachelor's degree in psychology, education, or any related field focusing on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Principles is often preferred or even required.

What is a Registered Behavior Technician?

Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) are highly trained paraprofessionals who work closely with individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. They implement behavior intervention plans under the supervision of BCBAs, helping clients develop essential skills and improve their quality of life.


BTs work directly with clients to implement behavior plans designed by a BCBA, while a BCBA is responsible for conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and supervising BTs. Learn more about BCBAs

The time it takes to become a certified behavior technician (RBT) can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to a few months to complete the requirements, which include a 40-hour training course, a competency assessment, and a background check. This does not include education requirements.

 A behavior technician's working hours vary significantly but typically fall between 20 and 40 hours per week. The exact schedule often depends on client needs and can include a mix of daytime, evening, and weekend sessions.

Check out job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and specialized ABA job boards. Attend conferences and connect with local ABA providers. Search career pages of ABA organizations.