RBT Task List: Ultimate Guide

The RBT task list, created by the BACB, serves as the basis for expectations of RBT’s job duties and knowledge of ABA.

judah schiller
Judah Schiller
August 8, 2023
Published On
August 8, 2023

RBT Task List

The RBT task list, created by the BACB, serves as the basis for expectations of RBT’s job duties and knowledge of ABA. It's organized into the following primary areas:

1. Establishing a treatment hierarchy and goals:

   • Identify the target behaviors that are the focus of intervention

   • Identify the conditions under which target behaviors will occur or not occur

   • Select measurable, observable target behaviors

   • Design an assessment plan to evaluate progress toward goal attainment

2. Assessing Client Performance:

   • Collect data on baseline performances for each target behavior prior to implementing intervention

   • Monitor client performance during and after interventions as necessary  

3. Developing Intervention Plans:

   • Select appropriate consequences to increase/decrease occurrence of behavior(s) of interest  

   • Conduct a functional behavioral assessment (FBA) when appropriate

   • Develop a written behavior intervention plan (BIP) with measurable objectives  

4. Implementing Intervention Plans:

   • Explicitly teach new skills as necessary to support target behaviors

   • Monitor client performance during and after interventions as needed  

5. Evaluating the Effectiveness of Interventions:

   • Observe and document client progress toward goal attainment and expected outcomes

   • Use measurement systems such as graphs, data sheets, or anecdotal records to track progress  

6. Maintaining Client Performance:

   • Provide generalization training for newly acquired skills in natural environments

   • Train caregivers in appropriate implementation of intervention plans and strategies  

7. Terminating Services:

   • Monitor client progress during and after services to ensure that goals are maintained

   • Assist with transition planning for clients as needed  

8. Professional Responsibilities:

   • Remain up-to-date on evidence-based principles related to ABA practice

   • Adhere to professional ethics and standards of practice such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) Code of Ethics

   • Consult with colleagues and/or supervisors as needed to ensure quality services.

   • Demonstrate sensitivity to cultural and linguistic differences in the population served.  

9. Supporting Families:

   • Provide ongoing education to families about the principles of ABA

   • Collaborate with other professionals as necessary for comprehensive support to families.

   • Assist families in developing resources for ongoing support of their children's progress.

   • Monitor family stressors and provide crisis counseling as necessary.  

10. Supervision:

   • Assist with the development of an appropriate supervision plan

   • Provide feedback and direction to ensure quality services are provided

   • Observe and monitor RBT performance on a regular basis to ensure that competencies are being met.  

11. Research:

   • Contribute to research in the field by participating in studies, writing case reports, or conducting original research

   • Stay abreast of current literature related to ABA practice

   • Review existing literature for potential relevance to clients' needs.  

12. Professional Development:

   • Utilize formal continuing education opportunities to maintain and develop knowledge and skills

   • Participate in professional organizations, attend conferences, and join special interest groups related to ABA practice

   • Develop professional networks with colleagues to enhance practice.  

13. Communication:

   • Communicate effectively with clients, families, other professionals, and supervisors as needed

   • Provide written reports of treatment activities in a timely manner

   • Prepare summaries of client progress for periodic review by supervisor or other stakeholders.  

14. Record Keeping:

   • Maintain accurate records throughout the course of service provision including data collection forms and session notes

   • Ensure that all documentation is completed accurately according to agency/organizational guidelines.  

15. Teamwork:

   • Collaborate with other professionals, families, and caregivers to develop a team approach to intervention planning

   • Participate in interdisciplinary meetings as necessary to support client progress.  

16. Advocacy:

   • Advocate for clients' rights within the context of ethical principles

   • Represent clients accurately when communicating with internal or external stakeholders.  

17. Management:

   • Manage program activities related to referrals, scheduling, data collection/review, and service delivery

   • Utilize appropriate resources for management including time tracking systems, client tracking systems, or other data management software.  

18. Training and Consultation:

   • Train personnel and supervisees on ABA principles

   • Consult with other professionals, caregivers, or families to provide support and guidance in the implementation of interventions.  

19. Quality Improvement:

   • Participate in internal quality improvement efforts related to service provision

   • Utilize data-driven decision making for program planning and evaluation.  

20. Other Duties as Assigned:

   • Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisor or manager that are consistent with overall job responsibilities.  

What Does an RBT Do?

As a Registered Behavior Technician, you will be responsible for the implementation of individualized behavior plans developed by an ABA therapist.

This includes direct 1:1 client sessions, data collection and analysis, progress monitoring, report writing, and other daily tasks related to providing Applied Behavior Analysis services.

You will also collaborate with other members of the team to ensure that each client is receiving appropriate treatment according to agency/organizational standards and ethical guidelines.

Additionally, you may be called upon to provide training and consultation for families or caregivers on implementing interventions effectively. Your primary goal is to help clients reach their maximum potential through evidence-based practice.

RBT Requirements

The RBT must have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent and complete the required training for certification as an RBT.

They must possess excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills and demonstrate knowledge of current best practices in ABA.

Additionally, they must be able to work independently while maintaining professional boundaries and collaboration with other professionals. The RBT must be willing to work flexible hours as needed.

Summary

Overall, the Registered Behavior Technician is responsible for providing quality Applied Behavior Analysis services to their clients through evidence-based programming that complies with ethical and professional standards.

They are an important member of the behavior analysis team who works collaboratively with other members in order to ensure that each client receives the highest quality of care.

The RBT is dedicated to helping their clients reach positive outcomes and must have a passion for making a difference in the lives of those they serve.

Sources

  1. https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/RBT-2nd-Edition-Task-List_230130-a.pdf
  2. https://www.bacb.com/task-lists/
  3. https://www.songbirdcare.com/articles/rbt-task-list