As April unfolds, bringing in the vibrancy of spring, it also marks a period of deeper significance with Autism Acceptance Month. This time of reflection and action is dedicated to increasing awareness and fostering acceptance of autism, a neurological variation that touches the lives of many individuals and families around the globe. It is time to celebrate the diversity of the human mind and to advocate for inclusivity.
In the spirit of Autism Acceptance Month, it is important to highlight the roles and contributions of those professionals who dedicate their careers to supporting individuals with autism. If you love working with children, helping them learn, and empowering them with life skills, working as a Registered Behavior Technician may be the best job you’ve never heard of. Most people are probably not aware of the job called “Registered Behavior Line Technician” or Behavior Tech for short, but to those who’ve discovered this path it is a life-changing career. Being “registered” isn’t just about paperwork, it signifies a commitment to excellence, having cleared stringent background checks, and being endorsed by the Louisiana Behavior Analyst Board to practice Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) – a field where science meets compassion.
At Milestones we work primarily with young people with autism. Behavior Techs are the front line of providing ABA treatment to children with autism and other developmental disabilities under the supervision of Licensed Behavioral Analysts (LBA).
Imagine a workday filled with moments of breakthrough and bonding. As a Behavior Tech your day is a blend of one-on-one sessions and group interactions, each meticulously planned yet adapted to meet the needs of each child. From preparing engaging learning materials to fostering a motivating environment that encourages participation, a Behavior Tech’s role is pivotal.
Here is an example of an interaction you might find at Milestones:
Imagine a young client, John, who struggles with communication. The Behavior Tech starts the session by greeting John warmly and guiding him to a quiet learning space equipped with colorful materials and John’s favorite – toy dinosaurs! First, the Behavior Tech engages John with a dinosaur using it to prompt John to express a desire to play, like saying dinosaur or making a gesture. As John communicates his interest the Behavior Tech rewards John with praise and the opportunity to play together – reinforcing the positive behavior of communicating. Throughout the session the Behavior Tech observes and records John’s responses to gather data for planning the next session or therapy.
As we delve deeper into the intricacies and rewards of working as a Behavior Tech, let’s carry forward the spirit of Autism Acceptance Month. Embrace the diversity of the human experience and recognize the invaluable contributions of those who work tirelessly to support individuals with autism. In doing so we not only celebrate the progress made, but also pave the way for a future where every individual is afforded the opportunity to thrive.
Behavior Techs are a key member of the Milestones team. There is no experience necessary! Once employed, our Behavior Techs are provided with structured, comprehensive on-the-job training that introduces the art and science of behavior change. Further along the journey additional education and experience to obtain the national credential of a Registered Behavior Technician. Individuals with the RBT credential are in high demand all over the country.
For more information on career opportunities with Milestones visit here.