Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements
Behavior technicians work with behavior analysts to deliver treatment plans for children or adults with autism, developmental needs or substance-use disorders. The field of applied behavior analysis is broad and can also involve other specialty areas, such as:
- Sports psychology
- Behavior gerontology or working with seniors
- Child maltreatment prevention
- Traumatic brain injury rehab
A behavior technician certification is the first step into this field and has a few basic requirements. To enter a training program, you must have:
- A high school diploma or GED
- An interest in working in a supportive role
- An interest in working with people who have developmental or other behavioral needs
Step 2: Complete Behavior Technician Training
The field of behavior technician specialists requires mandatory certification and supervision, meaning you must complete specific training before you can work. The training involves learning:
- Principles of applied behavior analysis
- Behavior assessment
- Interventions for behavior change
- Data collection and graphing
- Reporting
- Professionalism and ethics
Training may be online or virtual and may include interactive skills training to help you understand the motivations behind behaviors and how to avoid or reduce them. The MedCerts Behavior Technician Specialist program is written by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst–Doctorate (BCBA-D) and includes:
- 12 weeks of online training
- About 15 to 20 hours of study weekly
- Professional conduct
- Behavior analysis training
- Human anatomy
The MedCerts program prepares you to take the certification exam through the Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB).
Step 3: Complete the RBT Certification Requirements
Once you complete your training, the next step is to meet your Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) requirements through the BACB and earn your certification. The BACB is a national organization that vets, tests and certifies workers in the field and validates that you have the skills you need.
The certification process includes a few steps:
- Completing a training program of at least 40 hours
- Passing a criminal background check
- Passing an abuse registry check
- Passing an initial competency assessment
Once you meet these requirements, you can apply to the Board to take your certification exam. After your application is approved, you can schedule and take your exam. Passing the exam allows you to use the RBT designation.
4. Start Your Career as a Behavior Technician Specialist
The next, and most exciting, step is to start your career and begin working in the field, typically in schools, therapy clinics or home-based programs. However, behavior technician specialists must work under the supervision of a BCBA or assistant analyst.
Additionally, you must maintain your certificate to continue working in the field, which involves:
- Maintaining supervision
- Recertification every two years
- 12 hours of professional development
A behavior support specialist role is a fulfilling entry point into the field. Board certification is essential, and short-term certification-based training is the best route for anyone wondering how to become a behavior technician specialist.
