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Table of Contents
F-1 Describe the BACB’s RBT Supervision Requirements and the Role of RBTs in the Service-Delivery System
RBTs must track their supervision hours and ensure they meet the BACB supervision requirements. Supervision must include at least two real-time contacts per month, one of which involves the supervisor observing the RBT delivering interventions. These sessions must be conducted face-to-face or via video conferencing—not over email or phone.
RBTs must receive supervision for at least 5% of the total hours spent providing ABA interventions each month. For example, an RBT working 100 hours per month would need 5 hours of supervision.
In a tiered service-delivery model, ABA services are overseen by BCBAs (master’s level) or BCBA-Ds (doctoral level). BCaBAs (bachelor’s level) may provide mid-level oversight, while RBTs directly implement interventions. RBTs are not responsible for designing intervention plans—this falls under the scope of their supervisors.
F-2 Respond Appropriately to Feedback and Maintain or Improve Performance Accordingly
Receiving and implementing supervisor feedback is essential for professional growth. While feedback may sometimes feel aversive, it is intended to enhance performance and improve client outcomes. RBTs should listen actively, ask for clarification if needed, and apply feedback effectively.
F-3 Communicate with Stakeholders as Authorized
RBTs must protect client privacy and only share information they are authorized to disclose. Professional and objective communication is key. If a parent, caregiver, or teacher suggests a change in intervention, the RBT should refer them to the supervisor rather than making independent decisions.
F-4 Maintain Professional Boundaries (Avoid Dual Relationships, Conflicts of Interest, and Social Media Contacts)
Dual relationships occur when an RBT has both a professional relationship and a personal connection with a client or their family. These should be avoided, as they can impair judgment and create unrealistic expectations.
- Do not develop friendships, business relationships, or romantic relationships with clients, stakeholders, or supervisors.
- Do not accept gifts, as it may create a conflict of interest.
- Avoid social media contact with clients and their families.
Maintaining professional distance ensures that RBTs prioritize ethical and effective client care.
F-5 Maintain Client Dignity
Respect, empathy, and cultural awareness are central to maintaining client dignity. RBTs must:
- Obtain consent before interventions.
- Ensure privacy by discussing client information only with authorized individuals.
- Use respectful language—never belittle or talk down to clients.
- Avoid discussing clients in their presence unless directly involving them in the conversation.
- Assist with physical dignity needs (e.g., helping a client clean up if needed).
A person-centered approach ensures clients receive support in a way that upholds their self-esteem and autonomy.
Key Terms
Role of RBT
An RBT’s primary role is to implement behavioral interventions and collect data. They do not design intervention plans—that is the responsibility of their BCBA supervisor.
RBT Supervision Requirements
- Minimum of two real-time supervision sessions per month
- At least one session must include direct observation
- Supervision must cover 5% of total hours spent delivering ABA services
Stakeholders
Anyone with a vested interest in a client’s ABA services, including:
- Parents, guardians, or family members
- Teachers, therapists, or other professionals
- Caregivers or agency staff
Dual/Multiple Relationships
A dual relationship occurs when an RBT has both a professional and personal relationship with a client or stakeholder. These should be avoided to maintain objectivity and prevent conflicts of interest.
Dignity
Treating individuals with respect and honor by:
- Acknowledging their abilities and choices
- Providing interventions that support autonomy
- Communicating in a way that best meets their needs
- Safeguarding both physical and emotional well-being
A dignity-centered approach ensures that ABA services empower clients rather than restrict them.