Today was Treg’s first day of ABA therapy. The person assigned to us is a BT rather than an RBT. I found out we’re his first client and he previously worked in a different field. An RBT trainer is coming the first few sessions. Today they mainly got the iPad set up that he’ll be using and she showed him how to log notes, etc. I’m trying to keep an open mind but can’t help be skeptical. Is it common to have a BT rather than an RBT? Also we don’t know the treatment plan. They said the BCBA will review it within the first month. They’re currently finding us a new BCBA because the one assigned to us resigned today. I hope that’s not an omen! I know providers vary in their practices but I’d appreciate thoughts from someone experienced in the field.
Answer:
Thank you for your question! I am so happy to hear that Treg's ABA services have started! To answer your question, it is totally fine that he has a BT instead of a RBT! All RBTs start out as BTs! Most BTs are studying to become RBTs and the only difference between a BT and a RBT is an 85 question test! Some agencies do not even require behavior technicians to become RBTs, but they still may have a ton of experience. And some RBTs just take the exam with ZERO experience. So give this BT a chance even though they are new to the field, they could be AMAZING.
If services have started that means they should have already done Treg's initial assessment which means there should already be goals prepared for you. Usually they take the goals from the initial assessment and set up a treatment plan. If you have not seen the initial assessment yet, definitely ask for it so you can see the goals! If you have not received a treatment plan in a month, check in with them but that is normal as they get to know Treg. And yes, sadly there is a lot of turnover in this field and BCBAs do jump around so do not consider it a bad omen. Great progress is coming Treg's way! 🙂
~ Coach Stacy
Thank you for your question! I am so happy to hear that Treg’s ABA services have started! To answer your question, it is totally fine that he has a BT instead of a RBT! All RBTs start out as BTs! Most BTs are studying to become RBTs and the only difference between a BT and a RBT is an 85 question test! Some agencies do not even require behavior technicians to become RBTs, but they still may have a ton of experience. And some RBTs just take the exam with ZERO experience. So give this BT a chance even though they are new to the field, they could be AMAZING.
If services have started that means they should have already done Treg’s initial assessment which means there should already be goals prepared for you. Usually they take the goals from the initial assessment and set up a treatment plan. If you have not seen the initial assessment yet, definitely ask for it so you can see the goals! If you have not received a treatment plan in a month, check in with them but that is normal as they get to know Treg. And yes, sadly there is a lot of turnover in this field and BCBAs do jump around so do not consider it a bad omen. Great progress is coming Treg’s way! 🙂
~ Coach Stacy