Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are becoming more common in education and healthcare, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). For Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), however, using AI comes with important ethical and professional boundaries. Understanding the RBT Rules for Using AI helps protect clients, maintain ethical practice, and ensure compliance with Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) standards.
RBTs Must Work Under Supervision
RBTs are required to practice under the ongoing supervision of a qualified BCBA or BCaBA. This rule also applies to the use of AI tools. RBTs should never independently use AI to make clinical decisions, develop behavior intervention plans, interpret data, or modify treatment. Any AI-assisted task must be explicitly approved and overseen by the supervising behavior analyst according to the RBT Rules for Using AI.
Protecting Client Confidentiality Is Mandatory
RBTs may not enter identifying or sensitive client information into AI platforms. Many AI tools store or process data in ways that are not HIPAA-compliant. Sharing client names, initials, assessment data, session notes, or videos with AI tools can violate confidentiality requirements and ethical standards. When in doubt, RBTs should assume AI platforms are not secure for client data, as outlined in RBT Rules for Using AI.
AI Cannot Replace Clinical Judgment
AI tools may be used for general educational purposes, such as drafting study notes, creating practice scenarios, or improving professional writing. However, AI must never replace professional judgment. RBTs cannot rely on AI for behavior analysis decisions, data interpretation, or treatment recommendations, as this exceeds the RBT scope of practice. For clarity, the RBT Rules for Using AI require professional judgment and supervision at all times.
Follow Supervisor and Agency Policies
Many organizations now have formal policies regarding AI use. RBTs are responsible for following employer guidelines, district rules, and supervisor instructions related to technology and AI. If policies are unclear, the RBT should seek clarification before using any AI tool for work-related tasks.
Ethical Responsibility Still Applies
Using AI does not remove personal responsibility. RBTs are still accountable for ethical behavior, accuracy, professionalism, and adherence to the RBT Ethics Code. Misuse of AI can lead to ethical violations, disciplinary action, or loss of certification.
Best Practice for RBTs
The safest approach is to treat AI as a learning and productivity tool only, not a clinical tool. RBTs should always ask their supervisor before using AI in any work-related capacity and should never use AI with client-specific information.
Bottom line: AI can support learning and organization, but RBTs must stay within their role, protect confidentiality, and follow BACB ethics and supervision requirements at all times.