ABA Therapy
What is Applied Behavior Analysis?
An Evidence-Based Practice
ABA therapy utilizes Evidence-Based Practices (EBP) of behavior analysis to modify behaviors and teach foundational and functional skills. Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) is an approach that integrates three components in clinical decision-making: current best evidence, clinical expertise, and patient perspective. ABA is the most effective researched based method of behavior modification to help children with Autism, communication disorders, and other developmental disabilities. Although it is most known for being an effective treatment for children with behavior concerns, research has shown it is beneficial for all children regardless of undesirable behaviors. ABA is a teaching model that recognizes a behavior that requires alteration, then implements a procedure to create that change. ABA helps children develop the skills necessary for independent functioning and overall success. Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Board Certified Assistant Behavior Anlaysts (BCaBAs), and trained ABA therapists ensure that only evidence-based, data-driven methods are utilized so every child has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.
Comprehensive vs Focused Approach
There are two approaches to an ABA program - the first being a Comprehensive Approach and the second being a Focused Approach. A Comprehensive ABA program is supported by research to provide an early and intensive intervention program that consists of 25-40 hours of one-to-one therapy per week. These hours will be utilized to teach a vast amount of skills including, but not limited to, verbal behavior, social skills, independent functioning skills, and behavior reduction. A Focused ABA program, which is also supported by research, consists of 25 hours or less per week of one-to-one therapy. These hours will be utilized to focus on specific areas of improvement including, but not limited to, language and communication skills, independent functioning, community outings, and social skills.
What We Teach
Just about anything! You name it and we will develop a plan to help you and your family achieve your goals.
Typical areas of development that are addressed include:
-
Age-appropriate play and leisure skills
-
Motor Skills (Gross Motor and Fine Motor)
-
Language & Communication Skills (PECS , vocal, sign, etc.)
-
Social Skills
-
Non-Compliance
-
Tantrums
-
Self-Injury and/or Aggression
-
Potty Training and Daily Living Skills
-
Eating (Food Selectivity and Mealtime)
How We Teach
Depending on your child's needs, we incorporate many different Evidence-Based Practices as part of your child's treatment plan:
-
Natural Environment Teaching
-
Discrete Trial Instruction (DTI)
-
Incidental Teaching
-
Task Analysis Instruction
-
Visual Supports
-
Video Modeling
-
Social Stories
-
Pivotal Response Training (PRT)
-
Fluency-Based Instruction
For more information on the 27 evidence based practices for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), visit The National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder.