How to Self-Advocate for Supervision Hours as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)

As a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), advocating for your supervision hours is essential for your professional development, compliance with RBT certification requirements and the progress of your clients. Supervision ensures that RBTs receive ongoing guidance to develop the skills necessary for their essential role. A great supervisory relationship is bi-directional and allows room for intellectual curiosity and growth. When RBTs receive great supervision, everyone benefits. Here are some practical strategies to help you advocate for your supervision hours effectively, and gain more confidence in your role as a RBT – and beyond.

The first step to successfully advocating for supervision hours is understanding your specific needs. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) requires that RBTs receive supervision for at least 5% of the hours they spend providing behavior-analytic services each month. These hours should include real-time interaction, direct observation and an opportunity for sharing your success and struggles with your clients. Knowing how many hours you require, based on your work and certification status, empowers you to speak confidently with your supervisor.

Before approaching your supervisor, review your current supervision hours for the month, and determine if they meet BACB requirements. If you’re falling short, identify the exact amount of additional supervision needed. This data-driven approach demonstrates that you’re committed to meeting the standards set forth by the BACB, positioning you as a responsible and proactive employee.

It is important that you don’t wait until the last day of the month to determine if you are falling short. Best practice is to review at the end of each week and prompt your supervisor to schedule accordingly for the weeks that follow. By doing this consistently, you will be able to stay on track and avoid falling behind,

I fully recognize that there is a responsibility on the part of your supervisor to maintain compliance with your hours, however this article is rooted in self-advocacy. This skill will serve you well throughout all of your career. Who knows, maybe one day you will be a supervisor and know what it was like in your RBTs’ shoes. I bet you will be one amazing supervisor!

Open communication with your supervisor is key to advocating for more supervision. Begin by scheduling a meeting dedicated to discussing your specific supervision needs. Make sure the conversation is structured and specific. Clearly explain how many hours of supervision you need just to stay compliant and how it aligns with your professional growth, the BACB requirements and the progress of your client(s)

When presenting your case, connect the value of supervision to the quality of services you provide. Highlight that additional supervision will enhance your skill set, making you more effective in your role and ensuring high-quality service for your clients. Be open to feedback and collaborate with your supervisor to create a plan that fits both your needs and the organization’s goals.

The minimum required supervision is 5%, but if you feel you can benefit from more guidance from your supervisor, be confident and ask for what you need. When you have a new case, more than 5% in the beginning can set you up for only needing the minimum 5% down the road, Your ability to deliver quality services will directly affect your clients’ progress, and your confidence with each new case you support.

In addition to advocating for more supervision, you can strengthen your case by utilizing resources that support your professional development. Many RBTs choose to enhance their skills by enrolling in RBT training courses online. Even though you passed your initial 40-hour RBT Training course, you can always benefit from sharpening your knowledge. These courses help you gain a deeper understanding of the RBT role and the science behind your services, giving you the tools to engage in more meaningful discussions with your supervisor about your needs. 

Ask yourself, did my 40-hour course prepare me to apply the science of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with all of my clients? Do I have a foundational understanding that empowers me to help each of my clients, regardless of differences in age and diagnosis? Do I know what the 7 dimensions are?

Did I learn how to advocate for my supervision hours in my initial course?

Continuing education through online courses demonstrates your commitment to your profession and to yourself. It shows that you are taking the initiative to grow and improve, which reinforces your request for for more supervision.

Your company might pay for this training, It’s worth asking. And if they do not, investing in yourself is a decision you can be proud of.

Don’t overlook the value of support from your peers. Other RBTs have likely faced similar challenges when it comes to supervision. Join the RBT Connection online forum, professional networks, or local groups where RBTs share strategies on Essential Skills for RBTs - What You Need to Succeed. Seek out support networks rooted in empowerment and mentorship. Try to avoid forums where the bulk of the content is negative, and most participants are complaining. Sure, there are tons of things to complain about, especially when your needs are not getting met, but your time is valuable. Focus on improving and gaining confidence vs. going down rabbit holes and shifting your focus away from self-advocacy and growth. 

By learning from your peers, you can gain new perspectives on how to approach your supervisor, navigate workplace dynamics, and overcome potential obstacles. Peer support also strengthens your confidence, making the advocacy process feel less intimidating. It might feel like your supervisor is on a pedestal, since they have a higher credential than you, but you are on common ground when it comes to your clients. Your role is essential, and you deserve to be supported.

Another important aspect of advocating for supervision is keeping a detailed record of your progress. Documenting your supervision hours, completed training, and other professional development activities provides concrete evidence of your dedication.

Ensure that you log each supervision session, noting the date, time, and focus of the discussion. Additionally, track any RBT training courses online that you’ve completed or certifications you’ve earned. This documentation shows your proactive approach and strengthens your case when advocating for more supervision hours.

When you present these records to your supervisor, it demonstrates your dedication to meeting the RBT certification requirements Additionally, if you can connect the dots on how increased supervision has improved your performance or client outcomes, you provide a strong reason for your request.

Advocating for your supervision hours is essential for your growth as an RBT and for maintaining compliance with BACB requirements. By understanding your supervision needs, communicating openly with your supervisor, using available resources, seeking peer support, and documenting your progress, you can successfully advocate for the supervision you need. A strong relationship with your supervisor makes the toughest days less difficult, since you have someone in your corner supporting you and helping you succeed.

Take control of your professional development today. Explore our Empowered RBT^TM progam online courses to equip yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to confidently advocate for your supervision hours and advance in your career. You will be surrounded by a community and have access to mentorship and valuable resources for your career.

Empower yourself with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for your supervision hours as an RBT. Our *Empowered RBT™* program offers online courses designed to enhance your skills, provide valuable mentorship, and connect you with a supportive community. Start your journey toward career growth and professional success today!

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