RBT Competency Assessment Guide

What is the RBT Competency Assessment?

The RBT Competency Assessment is a hands-on, performance-based evaluation conducted by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). This assessment is designed to assess your proficiency in applying the principles and techniques of applied behavior analysis (ABA) in a real-world setting. Unlike the RBT exam, which tests your theoretical knowledge, the competency assessment focuses on your ability to demonstrate the practical skills required for effective behavior-analytic practice.

Competency Assessment Overview

The assessment is divided into several tasks, each corresponding to specific areas of the RBT Task List (2nd Edition). You will be evaluated on your ability to perform these tasks in a simulated or actual clinical setting. The assessment typically includes direct observation and feedback from the assessor, who will evaluate your performance on the following skills:

• Measurement and Data Collection: Collecting and recording data on behavior.
• Assessment Procedures: Assisting in the assessment and evaluation of behavior.
• Skill Acquisition: Implementing interventions to teach new skills to clients.
• Behavior Reduction: Applying behavior reduction strategies to decrease challenging behaviors.
• Documentation and Reporting: Accurately documenting and reporting progress and interventions.
• Professional Conduct: Demonstrating ethical behavior and professional interactions with clients, supervisors, and colleagues.

Steps to Complete the RBT Competency Assessment

To successfully complete the RBT Competency Assessment, follow these key steps:

1. Step 1: Complete the Required 40-Hour Training
   Before you can undergo the competency assessment, you must complete the required 40-hour training program, which covers the core principles and practices of ABA. This training is a prerequisite and ensures you have the foundational knowledge needed to perform the tasks required for the assessment.
2. Step 2: Schedule Your Competency Assessment
   Once your 40-hour training is complete, you can schedule your competency assessment with a qualified BCBA or BCaBA. This assessor will guide you through the tasks and evaluate your performance.
3. Step 3: Perform the Assessment Tasks
   During the assessment, you will demonstrate your ability to perform each task as outlined in the RBT Task List. Your assessor will observe your performance, provide feedback, and assess whether you meet the required competency level for each task.
4. Step 4: Receive Feedback and Make Improvements
   After completing the assessment, you will receive feedback from the assessor. If any areas require improvement, they may give you the opportunity to practice and demonstrate your proficiency in those areas.
5. Step 5: Certification Submission
   After successfully completing the competency assessment, your BCBA or BCaBA will submit your results to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) for review. Once your assessment is approved, you will be eligible to take the RBT exam and earn your certification.

Skills Evaluated in the RBT Competency Assessment

The RBT Competency Assessment evaluates a range of skills based on the RBT Task List. Here’s a breakdown of the key areas and skills you will be assessed on:

1. Measurement and Data Collection

In this section, you will be evaluated on your ability to:

• Collect accurate and reliable data on behavior using various methods (e.g., frequency, duration, interval recording).
• Use graphs to display data and analyze trends over time.
• Understand the importance of data integrity and how to prevent errors in data collection.

2. Assessment Procedures

This area assesses your understanding of assessment procedures, such as:

• Assisting with conducting functional assessments (e.g., ABC data collection, preference assessments).
• Implementing assessments to evaluate skill deficits and behavior problems.
• Using data to inform treatment decisions and modify interventions.

3. Skill Acquisition

You will be assessed on your ability to implement interventions that teach new skills to clients. Skills evaluated include:

• Using prompting techniques (e.g., verbal, physical, visual) to help clients learn new skills.
• Implementing reinforcement procedures to increase desired behaviors.
• Implementing task analyses to break down complex skills into smaller, teachable steps.

4. Behavior Reduction

This section focuses on your ability to use behavior reduction techniques effectively, such as:

• Implementing strategies to reduce challenging behavior (e.g., differential reinforcement, extinction).
• Recognizing when to modify behavior reduction strategies based on data.
• Ensuring that interventions are ethical and that the client’s dignity is maintained.

5. Documentation and Reporting

Accurate documentation is critical for monitoring progress and ensuring the efficacy of interventions. You will be evaluated on your ability to:

• Complete progress notes, session notes, and treatment logs.
• Ensure the accuracy of written reports and data.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and other team members about the client’s progress.

6. Professional Conduct

Professionalism is key to ensuring effective service delivery. You will be evaluated on your ability to:

• Maintain professional boundaries with clients and colleagues.
• Demonstrate ethical behavior and respect for client rights and confidentiality.
• Work collaboratively with supervisors and other members of the treatment team.

Tips for Success in the RBT Competency Assessment

Here are some tips to help you successfully complete your competency assessment:

• Prepare ahead of time: Review the RBT Task List and practice the skills you will be evaluated on. This will give you confidence during the assessment.
• Ask questions: If you’re unsure about any part of the assessment, don’t hesitate to ask your assessor for clarification.
• Stay calm and focused: The competency assessment is a performance-based evaluation. Take your time and focus on demonstrating each skill to the best of your ability.
• Take feedback seriously: Use any feedback from your assessor to improve your performance and further develop your skills.

Conclusion

The RBT Competency Assessment is a crucial part of the certification process that evaluates your practical skills and readiness to work as an RBT. By thoroughly preparing, practicing the necessary skills, and receiving feedback, you can successfully complete the assessment and move one step closer to earning your RBT certification. Good luck on your journey to becoming a certified Registered Behavior Technician!