Collaboration is an important part of providing effective, client-centered services. Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) often work with clients who also receive occupational therapy, and differences in roles, approaches, and terminology can sometimes lead to confusion or miscommunication. This presentation briefly introduces the role of occupational therapy and how it complements applied behavior analysis (ABA). Common challenges in teamwork will be discussed, along with practical strategies RBTs can use to support collaboration within their role. Emphasis will be placed on clear communication, following supervision, and responding appropriately when questions or concerns arise. Ethical considerations relevant to RBTs will also be reviewed, including how to handle situations involving disagreement or client discomfort. By the end of this training, participants will have clear, practical strategies they can use to support teamwork, communicate concerns appropriately, and contribute to better outcomes for the individuals they serve.

2 Learning Objectives

  1. Participants will be able to identify the basic role of occupational therapy and describe how it differs from and complements applied behavior analysis (ABA).
  2. Participants will be able to demonstrate appropriate strategies for supporting collaboration, including communicating with supervisors, following treatment plans, and responding to potential ethical concerns within their role.

About the Presenter

Kristina Gasiewski is a rare blend of two worlds, an Occupational Therapist and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, who has spent more than 15 years supporting individuals with autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities. She earned her M.Ed. in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis from Endicott College and her MOT in Occupational Therapy from the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia. Her career has spanned school districts, private programs, and now her role as a Behavior Analyst and QIDP in Melmark’s Adult ICF/ID program, where she designs, oversees, and coordinates active treatment and clinical programs. Kristina is a passionate advocate for collaboration across disciplines, evidence-based practice, and enhancing quality of life for individuals with autism across the lifespan. She is a published author in Behavior Analysis in Practice, Autism Spectrum News, and Science in Autism Treatment. Additionally, Kristina is a Board member of the Association for Science in Autism Treatment (ASAT). She’s also a frequent presenter and has presented at conferences such as Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), and the Profound Autism Summit. Outside of her professional life, Kristina finds joy in the simple things like unwinding by the campfire with her family and hanging out with her dog, Swift, who reminds her daily of the importance of play, presence, and the occasional muddy adventure.

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Course information

  • Title: Working Together: How RBTs Can Support Collaboration with Occupational Therapy
  • Presenter: Kristina Gasiewski MOTR/L, M.Ed., BCBA
  • PDUs: 1 Learning - Ethics
  • Duration: 50 minutes
  • Customer Rating: (5)
$10