A Day in the Life of a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)

A career as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is rewarding but also demanding, requiring patience, dedication, and a passion for helping individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. RBTs work under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) to implement Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, which focuses on improving communication, social, and life skills in clients.

Each day brings new challenges and successes, making it a dynamic and fulfilling career. Here’s a glimpse into what a typical day might look like for an RBT.

Morning Routine: Preparing for the Day

An RBT’s day often starts early, especially if they work in a clinic, school, or in-home setting. The first task of the day is to review the schedule and session plans. This includes:

• Checking the client’s individualized treatment plan provided by the BCBA.
• Reviewing session notes from the previous day to track progress and adjust strategies if needed.
• Gathering materials, reinforcers, and data collection sheets to be used during sessions.

If the RBT is working in a home setting, they may commute to the client’s house, making sure to arrive on time to maintain consistency in the client’s routine.

First Client Session: Building Skills Through ABA Therapy

The first session of the day may involve working with a young child diagnosed with autism. The session might focus on:

• Communication skills: Using Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) or augmentative devices.
• Daily living skills: Practicing handwashing, brushing teeth, or getting dressed.
• Behavior reduction strategies: Implementing de-escalation techniques for challenging behaviors.

Throughout the session, the RBT collects real-time data on the client’s progress, noting successful responses and areas that need improvement. Positive reinforcement (such as verbal praise, token systems, or preferred items) is used to encourage desired behaviors.

Midday: Break and Documentation

Between sessions, the RBT may take a short break before transitioning to the next client. This is also the time to:

• Document session notes: Recording what strategies were used, behaviors observed, and progress made.
• Communicate with the supervising BCBA: If there are any concerns or adjustments needed in the client’s plan, the RBT will discuss them with the BCBA.
• Prepare for the next session: Reviewing behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and treatment goals.

Afternoon: Another Client Session – Social and Play-Based Learning

For the next session, the RBT may work with a school-aged child on social skills development. The focus may include:

• Turn-taking and sharing during structured play activities.
• Responding to social cues such as making eye contact and initiating conversation.
• Coping skills to manage frustration or anxiety in social settings.

If the session is at a clinic, the child may participate in group therapy with peers, providing opportunities for social interaction and reinforcement of learned behaviors.

Evening: Parent Training and Wrap-Up

As the day comes to an end, the RBT may conduct a parent training session, guiding caregivers on how to reinforce skills at home. This might include:

• Teaching prompting and reinforcement strategies to maintain progress.
• Discussing behavior management techniques for challenging behaviors.
• Providing homework activities for continued learning between sessions.

Finally, the RBT completes all documentation for the day, submits reports, and ensures all materials are organized for the next workday.

An RBT’s job is both challenging and rewarding. They play a critical role in helping individuals develop independence, confidence, and essential life skills. The progress may be gradual, but every small success is a step toward improving a client’s quality of life.

For those passionate about working with individuals with autism and developmental disabilities, being an RBT offers a meaningful career filled with opportunities to make a difference every day.