Dr. Sonja Wentling, dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, announced that a new partnership has been formed between the Concordia College psychology department and Pediatric Partners of Fargo, North Dakota, for the purpose of providing training to students looking to become a certified registered behavior technician (RBT).
“We are excited to make this training available to our students,” Wentling said.
Certified RBTs teach adaptive skills to children and adults under the supervision of a board-certified behavior analyst. Certified RBTs are in high demand in Fargo-Moorhead and throughout the country. Beginning in January 2024, the course PSYC 218: Behavior Modification will include training on each of the six primary content areas required for RBT Certification.
Upon completion of the course with a grade of “B” or higher, students will be invited to complete a practical competency assessment given by a board-certified behavior analyst at Pediatric Partners. Students will then be qualified to sit for the written RBT certification exam. Successful completion of the exam will result in certification as a registered behavior technician by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board, a certification that is valid in all 50 United States and Canada.
Dr. Mikel Olson, chair and professor of psychology, said certified RBTs are in short supply in the Fargo-Moorhead community, and many local agencies have waiting lists for services that RBTs can provide.
“With this certification, students can provide services to children and families in our community who need help, and, at the same time, gain experience in a clinical setting that can better prepare them for careers in mental and behavioral health,” he added.