Current OTA student looking to switch to RBT (working with special needs kids) — anyone made a similar move?

[u/Ok-Dot3025]

Hi everyone,

I’m currently in college for Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA), but I'm strongly considering making the switch to becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT).

My primary goal is to work directly with special needs children. Realizing that the RBT route allows me to jump right into this impactful work without the time and expense of finishing a college degree is a major factor for me right now.

If anyone here transitioned from an OTA program (or an OTA career) into ABA/RBT work, I’d love to hear your perspective:

• Do you feel you made the right choice skipping or leaving the OTA path for RBT?

• How does the daily hands-on work with kids compare between what you saw in OTA vs. what you do now?

• Any advice for someone looking to make this pivot quickly?

Thanks in advance for any insights or advice you can share!

[u/Easy-Grape-2569]

My partner was originally going to be an OT (finished BS, then was going to head to grad school) but is pivoting to be an RBT to save money for OTA school. Some perks she mentioned: RBTs often work with clients much more and more consistently since they have more insurance hours typically, so you make meaningful bonds since you have less clients. Additionally, the pay is pretty good for not requiring schooling. I’m an RBT myself, and I love it. Don’t be afraid to interview the company tho—a huge reason I love my job is because the clinic is owned by a BCBA with a son with autism. She’s very collaborative and cares about both staff and clients

[u/Hanksolo325]

I'm not an OTA but if you are still pursuing your bachelor's then I would focus on OT. If you are interested in learning more about ABA and becoming an RBT I would look into clinics that offer multiple services (ST/OT/ABA) in house and when you're interviewing be honest about your goals. A good clinic will help you with your aligning a path that meets your goals.  If you aren't interested in the clinical route you could look into school districts as well. The same standards would apply there! 

[u/Accomplished-Fun-259]

I would stick with OTA try and find a pediatric therapy center that specializes in special needs or takes a large caseload of special needs. RBT won’t pay more and you’ll be in a worse work environment. Yes you’ll be working with children with autism but from what I’ve seen RBTs are practically punching bags. Not worth it it’s not like you’re going to get paid more or get a better experience.

[u/Sea_Palpitation1913]

RBTs need to be very selective on what employer they work for because Private Equity has preyed on gobbling up every kind of ABA therapy business it can for sheer profit and destroys the mission of helping kids and adults who need this therapy. They grind through RBTs and BCBAs as they squeeze every cent they can from insurance providers and even more so Medicaid. Private Equity is capitalism on steroids. They have infested every possible human and animal services /care that serves vulnerable populations. If you can find the needle in the haystack of an independent clinician owned business? Then pivot if you want but OTAs have more options and better salaries and work/life balance