When your child begins ABA therapy, you will work with a team of professionals who each play a specific role in your child’s treatment. Understanding who these team members are—and what they do—can help you feel more confident and engaged in the therapy process.
The two primary roles you will encounter are the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). While they work closely together, their responsibilities, training, and interactions with your family differ significantly.
What Is a BCBA?
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
A BCBA is a master’s-level healthcare professional who specializes in behavior analysis. They are certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) and must meet rigorous education, experience, and examination requirements.
BCBA Qualifications
- Master’s degree or higher in behavior analysis, psychology, education, or a related field
- Specialized coursework in behavior analysis principles and ethics
- Supervised fieldwork — typically 1,500+ hours of hands-on experience
- National certification exam administered by the BACB
- Continuing education requirements to maintain certification
BCBA Responsibilities
The BCBA serves as the clinical leader of your child’s ABA therapy team. Their responsibilities include:
Assessment
Conducting comprehensive evaluations to understand your child’s strengths, needs, and skill levels.
Treatment Planning
Developing individualized treatment plans with specific, measurable goals tailored to your child.
Supervision
Overseeing RBTs and ensuring therapy is implemented correctly and effectively.
Data Analysis
Reviewing progress data and adjusting treatment plans based on your child’s response to therapy.
Parent Training
Teaching families strategies to support their child’s development at home and in the community.
Collaboration
Coordinating with schools, physicians, and other service providers as needed.
What Is an RBT?
Registered Behavior Technician
An RBT is a trained paraprofessional who works directly with children to implement the treatment plan developed by the BCBA. They are the team members who spend the most time with your child during therapy sessions.
RBT Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent (minimum requirement)
- 40-hour training program covering ABA principles and ethical guidelines
- Competency assessment demonstrating practical skills
- Certification exam administered by the BACB
- Ongoing supervision by a BCBA (required to maintain certification)
RBT Responsibilities
RBTs are the hands-on implementers of ABA therapy. Their day-to-day responsibilities include:
- Conducting one-on-one therapy sessions with children
- Following the treatment plan created by the BCBA
- Collecting data on the child’s responses and progress
- Teaching specific skills through structured activities and natural environment training
- Communicating with families about session activities and observations
- Participating in supervision meetings with the BCBA
How BCBAs and RBTs Work Together
The BCBA-RBT relationship is essential to quality ABA therapy. Think of it as a collaborative partnership where each role contributes unique value:
The BCBA…
- Designs the treatment plan
- Sets goals and targets
- Analyzes data and trends
- Makes clinical decisions
- Trains and supervises the RBT
- Meets with families regularly
The RBT…
- Implements the treatment plan
- Works directly with the child
- Collects session data
- Follows BCBA guidance
- Reports observations and concerns
- Builds rapport with the child
Regular supervision ensures that the RBT receives ongoing training, feedback, and support. This collaborative approach helps ensure consistent, high-quality care for your child.
What Families Can Expect
As a parent, you will interact with both the BCBA and RBT, though in different ways:
BCBA Meetings
Expect regular meetings (often monthly or as needed) to review progress, discuss concerns, and update treatment goals. The BCBA will also provide parent training sessions.
RBT Sessions
The RBT will be in your home for regular therapy sessions. They will brief you on what was worked on and share observations. Feel free to ask questions!
Questions to Ask Your ABA Team
When working with your ABA team, consider asking:
- How often will the BCBA observe sessions and meet with our family?
- How will we be updated on our child’s progress?
- What training does the RBT receive before working with our child?
- How can we support our child’s progress between sessions?
- Who should we contact if we have questions or concerns?
Signs of Quality BCBA Supervision
When evaluating an ABA provider, look for these indicators of strong clinical oversight:
Regular Supervision
BCBAs should observe sessions frequently, not just occasionally.
Accessible Communication
Families should be able to reach the BCBA with questions.
Data-Driven Decisions
Treatment changes should be based on your child’s progress data.
Family Collaboration
Your input should be valued and incorporated into treatment.
RBT Consistency
Efforts should be made to maintain consistent therapists for your child.
Learn More About Our Services
At Ahead ABA, we prioritize clinical quality and family collaboration. Our BCBAs provide meaningful oversight and our RBTs receive thorough training and ongoing support.
We offer in-home ABA therapy services throughout Maryland, including parent training and comprehensive BCBA supervision.
We serve families across Maryland, including Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, Howard County, and Frederick County. Learn more about our services.