rbt F.9 Professional Skills

By RBThub February 23, 2026

You are the face of ABA. When you show up late, dress sloppily, or ignore the teacher's input, you don't just look bad—you make the entire field of Behavior Analysis look bad.

Professional Skills (F.9) are not "extras." Being reliable, punctual, and a good communicator are just as important as knowing how to run DTT.

Executive Summary

This video tells the story of Celine, an RBT who noticed subtle changes in her client, Ryan. Instead of keeping this to herself, she acted as a Bridge between the home, school, and BCBA. This lesson highlights that your job involves listening to teachers, respecting parents, and communicating updates before small problems become crises.

⏱️ Video Timeline

00:05
The Scenario
Teacher notices disruptive transitions. Mom notices sleep issues. Celine (RBT) notices resistance to math.
01:16
The RBT Action
Celine didn't try to fix it alone. She documented everything and immediately contacted her BCBA. This is professional collaboration.
04:04
Urgent vs. Routine
Urgent: Safety concerns, medication changes, sudden regression. (Report Immediately).
Routine: Goal progress, minor schedule changes. (Report at meetings).
05:55
Professionalism
Keeping private info confidential, focusing on facts (not opinions), and speaking respectfully even when others are emotional.

🔑 Key Insights

The RBT is the Hub: You see the client more than anyone. You are the central point where information from school and home meets.
Listen Actively: When a teacher complains, don't get defensive. Listen. They have valuable data on the client's behavior in a different setting.
Timeliness: Delayed reporting leads to delayed treatment updates. A problem reported on Monday can be fixed by Tuesday. A problem reported on Friday has ruined the whole week.
Accept Feedback: Professionalism means taking correction without arguing. It helps you grow.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if the teacher suggests something that goes against the Behavior Plan?
A: Listen respectfully, but do not agree. Say, "That's an interesting idea. I will pass that along to my Supervisor." Then report it to the BCBA. Never change the plan yourself.
Q: I was 5 minutes late. Is that a big deal?
A: Yes. To a parent waiting to get to work, 5 minutes is huge. Chronic lateness destroys trust and can result in losing the case.

1. The RBT Bridge (Collaboration Visualized)

You are the connector. Without you, these people might never talk to each other.
Teacher Parent OT / Speech RBT BCBA

2. Receiving Feedback

Career Tip

Feedback is a Gift.
When a supervisor corrects you, do not make excuses ("But the kid was tired...").
Say: "Thank you for letting me know. Can you show me exactly how you want it done?"

📝 Knowledge Check

Professional Judgment.

Q1: A parent complains to you about the BCBA's plan. What should you do?

Answer: Direct them to the BCBA.
Listen to validate their feelings ("I hear that you are frustrated"), but do not agree or disagree. Say, "Please share this with [BCBA Name] so we can discuss it." Then inform the BCBA yourself.

Q2: You are sick and cannot make your session. When should you call?

Answer: As soon as possible.
Do not wait until the session start time. Give the family and team maximum time to adjust.
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Ethics Quiz

Mock Exam

Test your knowledge on Professional Conduct.

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