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Kim Davis

Kim Davis

Registered Behavior Technician

Charlotte, North Carolina

Background and Journey

My career journey into becoming a behavior technician began with a strong interest in helping individuals improve their quality of life. I have always been drawn to work that allows me to support others in meaningful and practical ways. While exploring opportunities in the behavioral health field, I became particularly interested in working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder and ADHD because of the impact that structured behavioral support can have on their development and independence. This lead me to pursue a career in behavior analysis starting as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). What motivates me most is seeing the progress individuals make over time whether it is learning new communication skills, increasing independence, or reducing challenging behaviors. Being apart of that growth and helping individuals reach their potential continues to inspire my commitment to the field and my desire to further develop my career in behavior analysis.

Certification Details
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certified through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Maintains active certification with ongoing supervision and continuing education requirements.
Impact Story
One meaningful way I have made a difference in a client's life was by helping a young child with autism develop functional communication skills. When I first began working with this client, they frequently engaged in challenging behaviors. Through consistent implementation of their behavior intervention plan, I used prompting, reinforcement, and modeling to help them learn to request items and assistance using simple words and gestures. Over time, the client began replacing those challenging behaviors with appropriate communication. Experiences like this remind me why I am passionate about behavior analysis.
Advice for Aspiring Professionals
Advocate, Advocate, Advocate for yourself! Don't be afraid to speak up for yourself and remember you are the heart of the field without you nothing can get done, carry yourself as such!
Additional Contributions
Actively contributes to team training sessions and helps onboard new RBTs. Participates in community outreach events to raise awareness about autism spectrum disorder and the role of behavior technicians.
Community Involvement
My role in BTA is as a brand ambassador promoting all things BTA, providing mentorship and advocacy for my fellow RBTs and upcoming RBTs.

Personal Quote

"Progress is not linear but every small step forward can change a life"

Kathleen Irizarry

Kathleen Irizarry

Registered Behavior Technician

Eagle River, Alaska

Background and Journey

My journey in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis began three years ago when I became a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). Since entering the field, I have had the opportunity to work across a variety of settings, including home, daycare, school, and clinic environments. These experiences have allowed me to see firsthand the meaningful impact behavior technicians have in supporting individuals and families in their everyday lives. Over the past year and a half, I have also served as an RBT trainer, mentoring and supporting new technicians as they begin their own journeys in the field. I am currently pursuing my undergraduate degree in Applied Behavior Analysis at Ball State University, with a minor in the Psychology of Human Development. I plan to continue my education by pursuing a master's degree in ABA in the future. I became an RBT because I have always had a strong desire to serve and support others. In my Iñupiaq culture, community plays a central role in our values and way of life, and that perspective has greatly shaped the way I approach my work. I am especially passionate about advocating for vulnerable populations and ensuring they receive the support, dignity, and opportunities they deserve.

Certification Details
Registered Behavior Technician — 11/5/2021 to Current. Safety Skills Certified — 3/1/2024.
Impact Story
One of the most memorable moments at the beginning of my career involved supporting a young client whose family was concerned about his conversational skills both at home and in the community. At the start of services, he was often hesitant to speak with others and rarely initiated interactions during outings. Over several months, we focused on building his confidence and communication skills across different environments. When I concluded services about five months later, his father jokingly told me, "Now he talks too much!" He shared that during a recent restaurant outing, his son proudly introduced himself to a waitress and eagerly began chatting — something he previously would not have done.
Advice for Aspiring Professionals
For those entering the field, my biggest piece of advice is to stay curious and never stop learning. ABA is a field where growth comes from asking questions, seeking mentorship, and being open to developing new skills over time. Be patient with yourself as you learn, build strong relationships with your team, and take pride in the role you play in helping others grow. Most importantly, lead with compassion.
Additional Contributions
As a Brand Ambassador with Behavior Technician Association (BTA), I support the organization's mission by promoting its values and helping build an engaged professional community for behavior technicians. I collaborate with affiliated organizations to support events, initiatives, and shared resources that benefit BTs and students entering the field.
Community Involvement
Volunteers with local organizations supporting families of children with developmental disabilities. Serves as a Brand Ambassador for the Behavior Technician Association, helping to connect and uplift the BT community nationwide.

Personal Quote

"My culture taught me that strong communities lift people up. ABA gives me the tools to help build those communities every day."

Tessa Dickel

Tessa Dickel

Registered Behavior Technician

Tampa, Florida

Background and Journey

My journey in the behavioral health field started with a desire to make a real difference in people's lives. Working as a behavior technician has allowed me to support individuals in developing skills that improve independence and quality of life. Through the Behavior Technician Association, I'm excited to continue learning, connecting with other professionals, and strengthening my impact in the field.

Certification Details
MS in Psychology specializing in ABA, RBT, Small Business Owner.
Impact Story
I once worked with a client who had difficulty participating in daily routines and social interactions. Through structured support and positive reinforcement, we gradually built their confidence and independence. Over time, they began engaging more with peers and completing tasks they once avoided, which made a meaningful difference in both their life and their family's daily routine.
Advice for Aspiring Professionals
My advice for aspiring RBTs is to stay curious, be patient, and always advocate for your clients. Don't be afraid to ask questions or learn from experienced professionals. The small moments of progress you help create will remind you why this work is so meaningful.
Additional Contributions
Fostering communication and social skill development. Creating supportive environments. Data collection and progress monitoring.
Community Involvement
As a Brand Ambassador for the Behavior Technician Association, I serve as a representative of its mission, building connections within the behavioral health community, encouraging behavior technicians to get involved. Currently involved in my local chamber of commerce and internship for ECHO (Emergency Care Help Organization).

Personal Quote

"Nothing is impossible. The word itself says 'I'm possible."

Nicole Lambert

Nicole Lambert

Registered Behavior Technician

Washington, DC

Background and Journey

My career journey has been shaped by a strong passion for helping others grow and succeed. As someone who experienced behavioral challenges and needed extra support myself, I developed a personal understanding of how meaningful the right guidance, patience, and encouragement can be. That experience sparked my interest in behavior and strengthened my desire to support others in meaningful ways. I was motivated to become a behavior technician because I wanted to make a positive difference in people's lives. I was drawn to the field's combination of compassion and evidence-based strategies, and I find it rewarding to help others build important skills, increase independence, and feel more confident in their everyday lives.

Certification Details
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) — 2016 to present. Yoga Teacher Certification — 2019 to present. Specialties include integrating body awareness and regulation into behavior support, and using behavior science and ACT principles to promote sustainable well-being.
Impact Story
One meaningful way I have made a difference in a client's life was by helping them strengthen their communication and independence skills. At the start, the client had difficulty expressing wants and needs, which often led to frustration. Through consistent support, patience, and the use of individualized teaching strategies, I helped the client build more effective ways to communicate. Over time, I was able to see growth not only in their skills but also in their confidence. Being part of that progress and helping create a more positive daily experience for both the client and their family has been one of the most rewarding parts of my work.
Advice for Aspiring Professionals
Entering the field as an RBT can feel both exciting and overwhelming, but remember that every expert started where you are now. My biggest tip is to focus on consistency, curiosity, and compassion. Build strong relationships with the clients you serve — progress comes not only from interventions but from trust, understanding, and connection. Celebrate small wins, because change often happens in tiny, incremental steps. Finally, take care of yourself — your growth as a professional directly impacts the growth of your clients.
Additional Contributions
Hosted the 2025 Behavior Technician Conference (BTC). Active in conference participation and community engagement efforts within the BTA.
Community Involvement
Within the BTA, I have been involved through conference participation, hosting the 2025 BTC, and community engagement. My involvement in the BTA reflects my passion for giving back, uplifting others, and helping create spaces where professionals feel seen, supported, and inspired.

Personal Quote

"Be the change that you wish to see in the world." — Mahatma Gandhi

Robert Pickens

Robert Pickens

Registered Behavior Technician

Atlanta, Georgia

Background and Journey

Robert “Rob The Voice” Pickens is The Chair of BMBA Rise and a Crisis Management and De-escalation Trainer. He’s been a Registered Behavior Technician for 6 years and is a graduate student pursuing a Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis. With a strong foundation in psychology and behavioral health, he integrates clinical expertise with compassionate, relationship-centered care across school, home, clinic, and community settings. Rob has hosted the Behavior Technician Conference, Georgia Association of Behavior Analysts and BMBA Summit and served as a panel speaker at different ABA events, contributing to professional dialogue and field advancement. He is also a Social Emotional Learning teacher, mentor, and student analyst dedicated to developing ethical, culturally responsive practitioners. A passionate advocate for youth well-being and development, Rob is committed to holistic evidence-based practices, leadership, and creating meaningful, lasting impact in the communities he serves.

Certification Details
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). MCPP Trainer. CPR Certified. Areas of expertise include ABA, Social Emotional Learning, and Human Behavior.
Impact Story
I've taught many of clients how to use their words, advocate for themselves, have independent executive skills and be independent learners in school. It is so important to be intentional about what impact we have.
Advice for Aspiring Professionals
Be intentional and be compassionate in every session you engage with your clients.
Additional Contributions
Behavior Technician presenter and host. BMBA Summit Host. GABA Host. APBA Panelist Speaker.
Community Involvement
Serves as an Ambassador, mentor, executive and founding member and partner with BTA. Active presenter and host at multiple industry conferences and summits.

Personal Quote

"Change is on the other side of trying something new."

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