Answering the Call: The Demand for RBTs and BCBAs

As of March of 2023, 1 in 36 children have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. As this rate continues to climb (through earlier recognition and growing knowledge of ASD),  the demand for the leading treatment of autism, ABA therapy, is also increasing. 

Because the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has been growing so rapidly in recent years, the demand for BCBAs (Board Certified Behavior Analysts) and RBTs (Registered Behavior Technicians) has grown significantly. In fact, just between the years 2010 and 2021, the demand for BCBAs increased by 5,852 percent. 

As a result, in many locations, parents are on waiting lists for over a year, desperately hoping for a skilled therapist that is a match for their child. 

The BCBAs we are proud to work with at Springtide are professionals who have met the rigorous educational and experience requirements set forth by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) and have passed the BCBA certification exam.

They are responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating behavioral interventions for individuals with a wide range of challenges, including autism spectrum disorder, through ABA therapy. 

RBTs are those who work under the supervision of a BCBA and assist in the implementation of behavior interventions. They are paraprofessionals also certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board and have the responsibility to teach their clients the essential life, communication, emotional regulation, and social skills they need.

ABA therapy, and particularly the modern and compassionate ABA we focus on at Springtide, has become widely recognized as an effective treatment for individuals with autism. As a result, there has been a significant increase in the number of children receiving ABA services. 

With the increase in diagnoses and the building research behind the value of ABA therapy, has come an expansion of insurance coverage for specifically ABA services. This has made ABA more accessible to families who previously could not afford it, leading to a higher demand.

The practical benefits of becoming a BCBA or RBT are there: job security, continuously increasing opportunity, and a flexible work schedule. 

Anyone who enters this field has a true passion for helping others. For many children, ABA therapy is life-changing. When you work with children with developmental challenges or behavioral challenges, you have the chance to help them work through some of those struggles, hit new milestones, and make immense growth no one thought possible. 

All through this, you are able to see actual data turn into concrete results. Your impact on the client is fully documented.

Through the implementation of the behavior interventions, RBTs and BCBAs are able to teach their clients new skills and remove barriers that cause interfering behaviors. They witness children with autism make incredible strides in communication skills, social interactions, and self-regulation. 

In addition, they have a significant impact on the lives of the families, providing them with the tools and support they need to promote success for their loved ones.

Together, the RBTs and BCBAs form a team that enables children with autism to achieve their full potential. If you are interested in entering the ABA therapy field, or want to know more about how our therapists can help your child, reach out here.