Behavioral health technician certification in Pennsylvania.

To obtain a behavioral health technician certification in Pennsylvania you’ll need to complete the national standards for Registered Behavior Technician certification set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). 

“Behavior technician” roles are not typically licensed at the state level, and Pennsylvania is no different. Some school districts require paraeducator training or national credentials to ensure behavior technicians can work safely with students.  

Step 1: Meet basic requirements. 

Before starting your pathway to RBT certification in Pennsylvania, you must be at least 18 years old. You’ll also need a high school diploma or its equivalent.  

Step 2: Complete the training. 

A significant step in getting an RBT certification is completing your training. The BACB requires you to complete 40 hours of training in core clinical areas. This training teaches you about foundational Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles, including: 

• Ethical conduct. 
• Teaching skills. 
• Data collection. 
• Managing challenging behaviors. 
• Implementing individualized interventions. 
• Supervision requirements and scope of practice.

There’s some flexibility with the time you can take to complete training. Still, your training must be at least 5 days long and last no more than 180 days. 

You can find an RBT training program in a few ways. If you’re currently working in the field, your employer may offer this training on site. You can also explore local programs in your area or online. If you’re in college, your university may offer this training as part of your behavior analysis courses. 

Step 3: Pass a competency assessment. 

Once you finish your training, you complete the competency assessment. Qualified assessors, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBAs), can conduct these assessments. 

This hands-on evaluation showcases your skills in behavior reduction, measurement, skill acquisition, and professionalism. Your assessor will review your demonstration of skills and competency through direct observation, conversation, and role play. 

Step 4: Pass the RBT exam. 

This multiple-choice test covers core ABA concepts you learned in training and administered at an approved testing center. To apply for your assessment, create an account on the BACB website and submit the following: 

• Your 40-hour training certificate 

• Your competency assessment form 
• The RBT application attestation form (included confirmation of passing a background check) 

What does a behavioral health technician do in schools? 

As a school-based behavioral health technician, your role focuses on helping students manage behavior, emotions, and social interactions so they can participate in learning. Much of the work happens during the school day, alongside teachers and support staff, as students move through classes, activities, and transitions. 

You may support students with autism spectrum disorders, emotional or behavioral challenges, or other needs that affect how they function at school. Some students receive one-on-one support throughout the day, while others benefit from structured group interventions or regular check-ins. 

Behavioral health technicians work as part of a broader support team. That team often includes teachers, special education staff, licensed behavior specialists, behavior analysts, administrators, and families. Together, the team follows behavior intervention plans and student goals designed to support success in the school environment. 

What does a typical workday look like? 

A behavioral health technician’s day usually follows the school schedule. While no two days are the same, everyday responsibilities often include: 

• Supporting students during classroom instruction 
• Assisting with transitions between activities 
• Implementing behavior intervention plans under supervision 
• Observing and documenting student behavior 
• Providing individual or small-group support 
• Communicating with teachers and support staff 

Working in a school setting allows behavioral health technicians to see students consistently and better understand how support strategies work over time. 

Is this role a good fit for me? 

Behavioral health technicians who do well in schools tend to be patient, consistent, and comfortable working as part of a team. The role often requires flexibility, as students' needs can change throughout the day. 

This position may be a good fit if you enjoy working with children, value structure and routine, and want to play a direct role in supporting student success. Many people also use this role as a first step into careers in education, therapy, or behavioral health. 

Working with Pediatric Therapeutic Services.

School districts across the country partner with us to resource and manage their school-based therapy and behavior health roles.  

When you work with us, you’ll enjoy real work-life balance and make a difference in the lives of students. You can expect: 

• Weekly, competitive pay    
• Compensation for documentation   
• Work-free nights, weekends, and holidays  
• Variable work options, caseload possibilities, and clinical ladders   
• Access to mentorship    
• Free professional development 
• Collaboration with our national provider network    
• Optional insurance plans 

 Learn more about joining our team as a school-based behavior technician by filling out our form. One of recruiters will reach out to talk with you about our opportunities.