What is a Registered Behaviour Analyst in Ontario?

A Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA) is a trained and licensed health professional who helps people—especially children—learn important skills and improve behaviours that may be challenging. In Ontario, RBAs are officially regulated by a government-approved college called the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO). This means they meet strict educational and ethical standards to protect your child’s well-being.

What Do RBAs Do?

RBAs specialize in something called Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)—a science-based approach to understanding and improving how people behave and learn.

Here’s what they typically do:

Assess your child’s behaviour and learning needs: They look closely at your child’s strengths and challenges, often through observation and discussions with you.
Create personalized support plans: These plans help teach your child new skills (like communication, social interaction, or self-care) and reduce behaviours that may be harmful or disruptive.
Work closely with families and teams: RBAs guide caregivers, teachers, and other professionals on how to use strategies that help your child succeed at home, school, and in the community.
Track progress and adjust: They continuously monitor your child’s growth and make changes to the plan as needed.

How Can They Help My Child?

Whether your child is diagnosed with autism, ADHD, developmental delays, or struggles with communication or social skills, a Registered Behaviour Analyst can help by:

Teaching daily living skills (toileting, dressing, eating)
Improving communication (using words, pictures, or devices)
Helping manage big emotions or challenging behaviours
Building social skills and peer relationships
Supporting smoother transitions between activities or environments (e.g., home to school)

Most importantly, RBAs focus on what matters most to your child and your family, using methods that are positive, respectful, and backed by evidence.

Why Choose a “Registered” Behaviour Analyst?

Only professionals registered with the CPBAO can legally call themselves Behaviour Analysts in Ontario. This ensures they:

Have a recognized master’s degree or higher
Follow strict professional standards
Are accountable to a regulatory body (like a college for nurses or doctors)
Offer safe, ethical, and effective care

If you’re considering behaviour support for your child, choosing a Registered Behaviour Analyst means peace of mind—knowing your child is in safe, skilled, and caring hands.