rbt F.4 Effective Supervision

By RBThub February 23, 2026

Supervision is not just about "checking a box" to keep your license. It is an active relationship.

Your supervisor isn't there just to tell you what you did wrong. They are there to teach you skills, answer questions, and protect the client. Effective Supervision requires you to be an active participant—asking questions, taking notes, and actually changing your behavior based on feedback.

Executive Summary

This lesson explores the dynamic between the RBT and the Supervisor (BCBA). It highlights that feedback is the primary tool for professional growth. We cover the requirement to implement feedback (Ethics Code 2.03) and the importance of directing questions to the supervisor (Code 2.06).

⏱️ Video Timeline

02:30
Following Direction (Code 2.02)
RBTs must implement plans accurately. Your supervisor's direction is based on clinical data and client best interests.
04:13
Receiving Feedback (Code 2.03)
You must take action to improve performance. Feedback is not personal criticism; it is instructional.
08:14
Directing Questions (Code 2.06)
If you are unsure, ask! Don't ask a peer or a parent; ask your supervisor. They are the clinical authority on the case.

🔑 Key Insights

Feedback is a Gift: It is the fastest way to get better. If a supervisor corrects your DTT procedure, thank them and try again.
Active Participation: Don't just nod. Ask "Can you model that?" or "Did I do that correctly?"
Two-Way Street: If you don't understand the feedback, it is your responsibility to say so.
Documentation: Supervisors sign your monthly verification forms. If you aren't improving, they cannot sign off on your competence.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: My supervisor gave me feedback I disagree with. What do I do?
A: Discuss it professionally. Ask for the rationale. Ultimately, you must follow the clinical direction unless it is unethical or dangerous.
Q: How often should I be supervised?
A: The BACB requires supervision for a minimum of 5% of your hours worked each month. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet this minimum.

1. The Feedback Loop

Supervision is a cycle. If you break the cycle (by ignoring feedback), you stop growing.
Improvement 👁️ 1. Observe 🗣️ 2. Feedback ✅ 3. Implement 📈 4. Evaluate

2. Handling Corrective Feedback

Professionalism

Do Not Get Defensive.
When a supervisor corrects you, it is not an attack on you as a person. It is an instruction on how to perform a clinical procedure.
Correct Response: "Thank you for catching that. Can you show me the right way one more time?"

📝 Knowledge Check

Are you supervision-ready?

Q1: Your supervisor tells you that you are reinforcing the client too slowly. What is the best response?

Answer: "Thanks. I will focus on delivering it faster. Can you watch me do the next trial?"
Accept the feedback and immediately try to implement it (Active Participation).

Q2: You notice another RBT doing something incorrectly. Who should you tell?

Answer: Your Supervisor.
Direct questions or concerns to the supervisor (Code 2.06), rather than correcting the peer yourself (unless there is immediate danger).
▶

Ethics Quiz

Mock Exam

Test your knowledge on Feedback and Supervision.

Start Practice Test

Comments