Collaboration Basics
True or False: Collaboration means all professionals must use the exact same strategies.
False: Collaboration focuses on consistency in supporting the client, not requiring identical strategies across all professionals.
True or False: SLPs primarily focus on communication and language development.
True: SLPs support expressive and receptive language, which often directly impacts behavior and social interaction.
True or False: RBTs should focus on sharing observations rather than opinions.
True: Observations are objective and support collaboration, while opinions may come across as judgmental or directive.
True or False: If a skill is not reinforced across environments, it may decrease.
True: Skills are more likely to be maintained when they are reinforced consistently across different settings.
True or False: RBTs are responsible for leading collaboration between professionals.
False: RBTs support collaboration through observation and communication, but BCBAs typically guide collaboration efforts.
What is collaboration in ABA?
Working alongside other professionals to support the same client while maintaining communication and respect.
What does an OT support?
Sensory processing, motor skills, and daily living skills.
What type of communication should RBTs use?
Clear, respectful, and professional communication.
A client uses a skill in ABA but not in school. What may be happening?
Lack of consistency across environments.
What is the RBT’s role in collaboration?
Observe, implement, and communicate.
True or False: Clients may become confused when expectations differ across environments.
True: Inconsistent expectations can make it harder for clients to understand what is expected, which may impact learning and behavior.
True or False: Teachers can always provide immediate 1:1 reinforcement like ABA sessions.
False: Teachers manage multiple students at once, so they may not be able to provide immediate or individualized reinforcement.
True or False: It is appropriate to correct other professionals in the moment if they are wrong.
False: Correcting others in the moment can create tension; concerns should be shared with the BCBA instead.
True or False: If a teacher uses a different strategy, the RBT should correct them immediately.
False: RBTs should remain professional, observe, and communicate concerns to the BCBA rather than correcting in the moment.
True or False: RBTs can modify interventions if they believe it will help.
False: RBTs should not make independent changes and should instead communicate with their BCBA.
Give one example of how collaboration supports skill generalization.
A client uses the same communication (e.g., “help”) across ABA and school.
How can sensory needs impact behavior?
A client may avoid tasks due to discomfort, not refusal.
Give an example of a collaborative statement.
“I’ve noticed he responds well to visuals — have you seen that too?”
A client avoids work due to loud noise. Which professional may help?
Occupational Therapist (OT).
Why is staying within your role important?
It maintains professionalism and ensures appropriate decision-making.
Why doesn’t collaboration require full agreement?
Because professionals may use different approaches but still support the same goal.
Why is understanding roles important for collaboration?
It reduces misunderstandings and improves teamwork.
What is a professional response when unsure?
“I’ll check with my BCBA so we can stay consistent.”
What is the BEST response in a difficult collaboration moment?
Stay calm, observe, and communicate with your BCBA.
What is one way RBTs support collaboration without overstepping?
Sharing observations and allowing the BCBA to guide next steps.