A Day in the Life of an ABA Therapist: BCBAs and RBTs

Applied behavior analysis therapy (ABA therapy) is a rewarding field, where dedicated professionals help children and adults on the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) reach their fullest potential. The journey of an ABA therapist varies based on certification levels, responsibilities, and day-to-day interactions with clients. Here, we’ll dive into a typical day in the life of both a Certified ABA Therapist, often referred to as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and an entry-level Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), shedding light on what makes ABA therapy both impactful and unique.

The Different Roles in ABA Therapy

In ABA therapy, there are two primary certification levels:

1. Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): BCBAs are certified ABA therapists who create and oversee treatment plans. They hold a master’s degree,  advanced certification and often serve as supervisors in ABA settings.
2. Registered Behavior Technician (RBT): RBTs work directly with clients, implementing the strategies designed by BCBAs. This entry-level role requires hands-on training and certification, making it ideal for those starting in ABA therapy.

A Day in the Life of an ABA Therapist

Let’s walk through the typical tasks, challenges, and successes each role experiences daily.

Morning Routine: Preparation and Client Review

An ABA therapist’s day often begins with reviewing clients’ progress notes and preparing for the sessions ahead.

• BCBAs start their day by reviewing behavioral data collected from previous sessions. They use this information to assess the effectiveness of the treatment plans and make any necessary adjustments to ensure continued client progress.
• RBTs arrive at work ready to follow the BCBA’s plans. They review each client’s goals and strategies and prepare materials or visual aids that may assist in teaching specific skills.

This preparation is essential, as it allows both BCBAs and RBTs to deliver targeted and effective applied behavior analysis therapy tailored to each client.

Morning Sessions: Engaging and Implementing ABA Therapy

The morning hours are often filled with one-on-one sessions for both ABA-certified therapists and entry-level RBTs. Here’s what a typical session might look like:

• BCBA Sessions: BCBAs primarily observe and guide therapy, stepping in for more complex cases. They may work alongside RBTs to provide guidance or model techniques, especially if they’re overseeing a new behavior plan. For example, if a new communication method is introduced for a non-verbal client, the BCBA might demonstrate how to use it, ensuring the RBT understands the nuances.
• RBT Sessions: RBTs spend a significant portion of their day with clients, reinforcing positive behaviors and teaching new skills. They use a variety of ABA therapy techniques, like discrete trial training or naturalistic teaching, to address behaviors and skills in real-world contexts.

Lunchtime Collaboration: Team Meetings and Client Feedback

During lunch breaks, RBTs and BCBAs often come together for team meetings. These collaborative sessions provide an opportunity to discuss progress, troubleshoot any challenges, and share insights.

• BCBA’s Role: The BCBA typically leads these meetings, reviewing data collected by RBTs and interpreting it to determine if adjustments are needed. If a specific behavior isn’t responding well to the current intervention, the BCBA may suggest new strategies or modify the existing plan.
• RBT’s Role: RBTs provide valuable client feedback during these meetings, offering a firsthand perspective on each client’s responses to therapy. This feedback is crucial for shaping individualized treatment plans that resonate with each client’s unique needs.

Afternoon Focus: Training and Skill Development

In the afternoon, the focus often shifts to further skill-building, training, or professional development for both roles.

• BCBA’s Training Duties: BCBAs are responsible for training new hires or those still working toward their RBT certification. These training sessions cover ABA principles, data collection methods, and intervention strategies. BCBAs also ensure that the training aligns with industry standards and promotes consistency in client care.
• RBT Skill Development: New RBTs might shadow seasoned RBTs or BCBAs during this period, gaining hands-on experience. For certified RBTs, the afternoon may include continuing education opportunities, where they learn about the latest developments in ABA therapy. RBTs also spend time completing client reports, documenting behaviors, and noting progress toward treatment goals.

Late Afternoon: Documentation and Reporting

An essential part of ABA therapy is thorough documentation, as it provides a comprehensive record of the client’s journey and ensures accountability.

• BCBA Documentation: BCBAs compile data from RBT reports, assess treatment efficacy, and adjust plans as needed. Detailed reporting is critical, as it allows for an accurate analysis of progress over time, highlighting areas where clients are excelling or need additional support.
• RBT Documentation: RBTs document each session meticulously, noting client responses, any deviations from the plan, and notable improvements. This data informs the BCBA’s oversight, ensuring that each client’s journey is carefully tracked and measured.

The Rewards of Being an ABA Therapist

Both certified ABA therapists and RBTs find fulfillment in the transformative power of ABA therapy. Working with clients on the autism spectrum, they witness the daily victories that clients achieve—whether it’s learning a new social skill, improving communication, or reducing challenging behaviors.

ABA therapy isn’t just a job; it’s a calling. Both BCBAs and RBTs share a commitment to improving their client’s quality of life, helping them reach goals that once seemed out of reach. For those interested in becoming a certified ABA therapist, the journey is rewarding, offering opportunities to make a lasting impact in the lives of those they serve.

Connect with Behavior Analyst Careers at Empower Behavioral Health

If you’re passionate about ABA therapy services and eager to make a meaningful difference, explore behavior analyst careers at Empower Behavioral Health. Our team provides evidence-based ABA therapy services that help individuals with ASD thrive, and we offer career opportunities for those committed to making an impact. 

Contact Empower Behavioral Health to advance your career while transforming lives through our personalized ABA therapy services.