Published by Breakthrough ABA 

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When your child begins ABA therapy, you’ll likely meet several professionals who are part of their treatment team. One of the most important—yet often misunderstood—team members is the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). 

At Breakthrough ABA, serving families throughout the Greater Houston area, we believe in helping parents understand who’s working with their child, and how each role contributes to lasting progress. 

Let’s explore the essential role RBTs play in your child’s ABA therapy plan. 

What Is an RBT? 🤔 

An RBT, or Registered Behavior Technician, is a certified paraprofessional trained to deliver Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). 

To become certified, RBTs must: 

• Complete 40 hours of intensive ABA training 

• Pass a competency assessment and a national exam 

• Undergo ongoing supervision and continuing education 

• Follow strict ethical guidelines outlined by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) 

In short, RBTs are highly trained in the practical delivery of ABA therapy—and they are often the team members your child will work with the most. 

What RBTs Do in ABA Therapy 🛠️ 

RBTs implement your child’s individualized treatment plan developed by the supervising BCBA. Their responsibilities include: 

• Running skill acquisition programs (e.g., communication, daily living skills, social skills) 

• Collecting real-time data during every session 

• Using reinforcement strategies to encourage positive behavior 

• Prompting and modeling skills 

• Teaching coping skills and reducing problem behaviors 

• Reporting progress and challenges to the BCBA 

Because they work directly with your child during most sessions, RBTs are central to your child’s growth and day-to-day success. 

Where RBTs Provide Services 🏡🏫💻 

At Breakthrough ABA, RBTs deliver therapy across a variety of settings to promote skill generalization: 

• In-home ABA therapy in familiar routines and environments 

• School-based ABA support to help with transitions, behavior management, or classroom readiness 

• Telehealth ABA sessions when in-person services aren’t possible 

• Community settings, such as parks, grocery stores, or playgroups 

This flexibility allows RBTs to teach your child how to apply skills in real-world situations—a core goal of effective ABA therapy. 

RBTs and the BCBA: A Collaborative Team 🤝 

Although RBTs are the ones working directly with your child, all services are guided and supervised by a BCBA. Here’s how the collaboration works: 

• The BCBA creates and updates the therapy plan 

• The RBT follows the plan and collects daily data 

• The BCBA reviews progress, adjusts goals, and trains the RBT regularly 

• The team meets to ensure consistency, quality, and measurable outcomes 

This model ensures that your child’s therapy remains structured, ethical, and responsive to their needs. 

How Parents Can Partner with RBTs 👨‍👩‍👧 

Building a strong relationship with your child’s RBT can enhance therapy outcomes. Here are a few ways to collaborate: 

• Communicate regularly – Ask how your child is doing and what they’re working on 

• Share updates – Let the RBT know about changes in sleep, mood, or behavior at home 

• Observe sessions – Watch and learn techniques you can use between sessions 

• Ask questions – RBTs can explain strategies or show you how to reinforce skills at home 

When parents and RBTs work together, children experience more consistent learning across all environments. 

RBTs in the Greater Houston Area 🌇 

In the Greater Houston area, we know families want accessible, high-quality support. That’s why our RBTs at Breakthrough ABA are carefully matched to each child, trained extensively in compassionate, evidence-based practices, and supported with ongoing BCBA supervision. 

Whether you’re located in Cypress, Katy, Sugar Land, or beyond, our RBTs are here to help your child grow confidently. 

Final Thoughts: RBTs Make the Difference 🌟 

RBTs are the heart of your child’s ABA therapy team. Their skill, consistency, and connection with your child drive progress and support real-life success. 

At Breakthrough ABA, we’re proud of our RBTs and the care they provide every day. If you’re just starting your ABA journey or want to better understand how your child’s team works, we’re here to help every step of the way.