What is ABA?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Applied = using the principles from Behavior Analysis and using them in or applying them to real world situations that are socially significant.
Behavior = what a person does.
Analysis = the process of implementing evidence-based strategies, taking data and examining or analyzing the results and making changes if needed.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the science of improving socially significant behaviors using the principles of behavior (reinforcement being one of them). It is a child-centered therapy that promotes communication, social functioning, independence, and overall quality of life. ABA can help to explain how and why behaviors occur. This can be used to find a functional alternative to behaviors that may interfere with an individual’s ability to learn or behaviors that may be harmful.
ABA breaks down behaviors into smaller parts by identifying and setting achievable goals towards a desirable task or behavior. It includes a mix of naturalistic teaching and discrete trial training. This form of therapy is proven through peer-reviewed research to be effective for all kinds of populations.
Personalized Approach
ABA is individualized to meet your child's needs. Each child will receive initial and ongoing behavioral assessments by a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Based on assessments, direct observations, rating scales, and interviews, an individualized program and treatment plan are developed. Throughout treatment, data are collected and continuously analyzed to determine treatment effectiveness and progress. Programs and goals are updated regularly.
Why ABA?
No other therapies have come close to the success rates of ABA for children with autism. Decades of research have concluded that ABA therapy increases appropriate social behavior, learning, and communication. It has been endorsed by many health, academic, and psychological organizations.
Board Certification
It is critical that ABA services are supervised by a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA). BCBAs are masters-level practitioners that must complete rigorous verified coursework, a minimum of 750 supervised fieldwork, and pass a board certification exam. For more information about the qualifications of BCBAs and ABA, please visit the Behavior Analysis Certification Board at www.bacb.com