What Is ABA Therapy?
ABA therapy or applied behavior analysis therapy is a mode of autism spectrum disorder treatment. It is appropriate for most people with ASD, and it is considered to be particularly effective for children at risk of being non-verbal. It is approved and recognized by several notable institutions:
- American Academy of Neurology
- National Institute of Mental Health
- American Academy of Pediatrics
- The Office of the Surgeon General
- Autism Society of America
- American Psychological Association
- Arizona Board of Psychologist Examiners
ABA therapy has been around since the middle of the 20th century. During that time, it has transformed into a widely accepted method to increase social skills, enhance academic performance, and reinforce positive behavior.
What ABA Therapy Could Represent for Children With ASDs
History and credentials aside, one of the most compelling reasons to choose ABA therapy for ASD is that it can be tailored to every child. This customization is based on rigorous individual analysis and observation of behavior. The best ABA therapists make their treatment decisions based on this data, the needs of the child, and the individual goals of each family.
What To Expect During ABA Therapy Sessions
The first thing to expect from ABA therapy is that the health of our patients and staff is our top priority. Every element of our practice is considered with regard to the risk posed by COVID-19. Whether in-home or at one of our facilities, we will take a detailed look at a child’s situation and learning goals. There are many ways to administer this type of therapy, and decisions are made on analysis. After the first consultation, there are a variety of formats available:
- Intensive ABA: 10 to 40 hours per week with a therapist and various supplemental support from administrators and coordinating professionals.
- Parent-directed ABA: A model that empowers parents to take on more of an active role via weekly and monthly support from treatment coordinators and licensed behavioral specialists.
- Workshop ABA: Regular monthly sessions often used to introduce families to ABA, reinforce treatment from the more intense programs, and keep up-to-date on new behavioral therapy techniques.
A first appointment with a therapist would probably consist mostly of talking, playing, or observation. As mentioned above, a contemporary ABA program is based on an individual analysis of the behavior of the child who will undergo treatment. A coordinator also typically discusses a family’s goals therapy before the first session of intensive programs, setting expectations for treatment.
After the preparation stage and during the ongoing sessions, therapists engage with children, providing alternatives to remedy or prevent problem behavior over the course of each session. Many sessions are several hours at least: Positive reinforcement methods require repetition and consistency to be as effective as possible for behavior modification.
How You Can Tailor an ABA Therapy Program to Your Child’s Needs
ABA therapy is popular in part because its goal is to provide results while allowing children to be who they are. Please contact us today at 1-866-342-8847 to learn more about the customized treatment options we can build for your child.
