Applied Behavior Analysis
What is Applied Behavior Analysis?
Applied Behavior Analysis, or “ABA”, is a sub-discipline of Psychology that is focused on the science of human behavior. ABA’s primary goal is to improve socially significant behaviors to maximize each client’s quality of life. Examples of socially significant behaviors include things such as language/the ability to communicate one’s basic needs, activities of daily living, academics, social & leisure skills, or vocational/job skills.
ABA utilizes evidence-based methodologies to teach the client helpful, “adaptive” behaviors, while simultaneously implementing strategies which can reduce or eliminate the client’s need to engage in less desirable or “maladaptive” behaviors.
About our Process
Step 1
An interview of the client and caregivers is conducted by the Behavior Analyst, followed by an observation, to gather data on the precise needs and current level of functioning of the client. Typically, this step is completed with one in-clinic appointment and one or two in-home observations.
Step 2
An individualized treatment plan is formulated by the Behavior Analyst to address the client’s unique needs. A positive behavior intervention plan will also be developed for clients with maladaptive behaviors that have been identified for reduction.
Step 3
The Behavior Analyst will collaborate with the client and their family by sharing and training parents and other caregivers on the client’s individualized treatment plan and positive behavior intervention plan. This step is completed in one session and can be conducted either in the clinic or via telehealth.
Step 4
The Behavior Analyst will provide one-on-one intensive ABA therapy with the client in their home and/or community, contingent on the client’s level of functioning and individual treatment goals. Intensive ABA therapy can range from a minimum of 5 hours per week up to 15-20 hours, depending on the individual client’s level of intensity required, which is determined by the assessment.
A key component to ABA therapy is parent involvement. The Behavior Analyst provides parental support and training to facilitate continued progress for the client in the home environment and for skill generalization across settings.
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ABA Resources;
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Parent’s Guide to Applied Behavior Analysis for Autism
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Behavior Analyst Certification Board Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts