At Centria Autism, we believe that true leadership isn’t about directing from the top; it is about building a foundation underneath our team so they can rise. Our mission to provide compassionate, client-led care starts by serving the very people who deliver it: our Behavior Technicians (BTs).
To support this mission, we have structured our Behavior Technician Training and Career Track around the core tenets of our values – investing in your growth, removing obstacles to your success, and empowering you to lead with empathy.
The Onboarding Foundation
Before hitting the floor with clients, Centria walks new hires through the non-clinical prerequisites—helping coordinate CPR/First Aid certification and TB testing. From day one, you are treated as a hired employee, meaning the entire training process is paid.
The 40-Hour ABA Intensive
Before beginning working with clients, everyone must complete a 40-hour training curriculum and Centria’s Foundations of Behavior Technician Orientation. Following initial instruction learning, BTs are providing realworld, practical experience to bridge the gap between theory and application.
- Core Principles: Learning how behavior works, positive reinforcement, and data collection.
- Modern, Assent-Based Focus: Training leans heavily into modern, client-led care. You learn how to look for client assent (willingness to participate) and study compassionate frameworks like Skills-Based Treatment (SBT) and Practical Functional Assessment (PFA).
- Reduction of Challenging Behaviors: Learning safe, evidence-based ways to navigate high-stress moments and de-escalate situations effectively.
Simulation & Shadowing (Learning by Doing)
Theoretical knowledge doesn’t automatically translate to working with a child. To bridge that gap, Centria incorporates a simulated practical phase:
- Role-Playing: Practicing behavior plans and data collection with peers.
- Shadowing: Going out into the field (in-home or center-based) to watch experienced BTs run actual sessions.
- Digital Tools: Getting hands-on training with their digital data collection systems so tracking client progress becomes second nature.
Passing the RBT Exam
Our 40-hour training curriculum strictly aligns with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) standards required to pursue the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) credential. Whether obtaining your RBT is mandated by your specific healthcare payor, required by your state regulations, or simply a core part of your personal career goals, we have you covered.
We are fully committed to walking with you through every step of this professional certification. At the conclusion of your 40 hours and hands-on practice, you will complete a Competency Assessment supervised by a trained assessor. From there, we take the stress out of the logistics by helping you navigate the official BACB application and board exam processes to ensure your ultimate success.
The Behavior Technician Leveled Career Track
Centria doesn’t leave you at a standstill once you pass your exam. We utilize a structured Staff Integrity Assessment (SIA) to measure how well you apply your training in real sessions, tying your clinical growth directly to performance-based raises:
| Level | Timeline & Requirements | Pay Impact | Focus |
| BT I | Entry level / Onboarding | Base hourly rate | Mastering baseline ABA principles & building client rapport. |
| BT II | Min. 6 months + SIA score of 3.6 or higher | +$0.50/hr base increase | Developing advanced clinical problem-solving skills. |
| BT III | Plus another 6 months + SIA II score of 3.6 or higher | +$0.75/hr base increase | Mastery of clinical skills; unlocks up to 5% annual merit raises. |
Reaching higher BT tiers opens the door for you to become a supportive leader for the next generation. You can step into roles like Lead Behavior Technician (LBT)—where you get to mentor and guide new hires—or enter the Elevate Practicum Program if you choose to go to graduate school to become a BCBA. By pouring our resources into your growth, we ensure you are fully empowered to pour that same care and dedication back into the families we serve.


