12 CEU Ideas for RBTs to Stay Ahead in Their ABA Career

To continue delivering high-quality support, every Registered Behavior Technician® (RBT®) must keep building their skills — and that’s exactly what Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are designed for.

Under the BACB’s updated recertification requirements, RBTs are now required to complete 12 hours of CEUs every two years. This encourages ongoing learning and helps technicians stay current with best practices in applied behavior analysis (ABA).

If you’re looking for meaningful ways to meet your CEU requirements while strengthening your professional growth, here are 12 high-impact CEU ideas every RBT should consider.

1. Ethics and Professional Conduct

Ethics courses help RBTs navigate complex clinical situations and maintain professionalism. These CEUs typically cover client boundaries, data privacy, and ethical decision-making—skills essential for long-term success.

2. Data Collection and Analysis

Strong data collection skills are the backbone of ABA therapy. These CEUs help RBTs improve recording accuracy, graph interpretation, and the ability to turn behavior data into actionable insights.

3. Behavior Reduction Strategies

Learn evidence-based strategies for reducing challenging behaviors while promoting positive alternatives. These CEUs reinforce compassion, consistency, and ethical treatment delivery.

4. Functional Communication Training (FCT)

FCT teaches RBTs how to replace problem behaviors with meaningful communication. It’s one of the most powerful ABA intervention tools for improving client outcomes.

5. Cultural Competence in ABA

These CEUs help RBTs understand how cultural, linguistic, and social factors shape behavior. Training in this area supports more equitable, respectful, and effective treatment for diverse populations.

6. Reinforcement Systems and Motivation

Refresh your knowledge of reinforcement schedules, token systems, and motivational strategies. Strong reinforcement systems lead to smoother sessions and better long-term progress.

7. Supervision and Collaboration

Effective teamwork between RBTs and supervisors improves client outcomes. These CEUs emphasize communication, professionalism, and actionable collaboration skills.

8. Crisis Prevention and Response

Learn proactive approaches to de-escalation, safety procedures, and supporting clients during crisis situations. These CEUs demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical, responsible care.

9. Parent and Caregiver Support

RBTs often play a key role in helping families implement behavior strategies at home. These CEUs strengthen communication skills and increase confidence in guiding caregivers.

10. Integrating Technology in ABA

From digital data-tracking platforms to telehealth and remote supervision tools, technology is reshaping ABA. These CEUs prepare RBTs to work effectively in tech-supported environments.

11. Professional Resilience and Burnout Prevention

ABA can be emotionally demanding. These CEUs teach techniques for managing stress, maintaining balance, and sustaining motivation throughout your career.

12. Specialized ABA Topics

Explore topics such as early intervention, social skills training, functional living skills, and more. Diversifying your CEUs helps expand your toolkit and keeps learning engaging.

Choosing the Right CEU Provider

When selecting CEUs, make sure your provider:

• Meets BACB continuing education standards
• Provides clear learning objectives and certificates of completion
• Uses updated, evidence-based ABA practices
• Offers flexible, user-friendly learning options