About ABA Therapy

What is ABA Therapy?

ABA therapy can be used to:

Applied Behavior Analysis is a field of psychology. Behavior Analysis is the science of behavior. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the process of systematically applying interventions based upon the principles of learning theory to improve socially significant behaviors to meaningful degree (Baer, Wolf & Risley, 1968/1987).

ABA therapy can be used to:

Teach new skills such as language, social skills, play skills and, self-help skills.
Generalize or transfer new behavior from one situation to another (e.g., from communicating with caregivers in the home, to interacting with classmates at school).
Modify conditions under which interfering behaviors occur (e.g., changing the learning environment to foster attention to the instructor)
Reduce inappropriate / maladaptive behaviors such as self-injury, aggression, tantrums and or self-stimulatory behaviors.

A woman and a little girl doing painting activity

Why ABA therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is widely recognized as the most effective treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). This recognition is based on extensive research and numerous studies that consistently demonstrate the positive impact of ABA on individuals with ASD. When behavioral principles are implemented by highly trained practitioners, significant progress can be seen in a wide variety of developmental areas, including communication, social skills, self-care, and academic performance.

ABA therapy is built on the principles of behaviorism, which focuses on understanding how behavior works and how it is affected by the environment. This approach allows therapists to create individualized treatment plans that cater to the unique needs of each person with autism. The core of ABA involves breaking down complex skills into smaller, manageable tasks and using positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors. This method has been shown to be particularly effective in helping individuals with autism learn new skills and reduce challenging behaviors.

One of the key strengths of ABA therapy is its flexibility. It can be adapted to suit individuals of all ages, from young children to adults. The therapy can be conducted in various settings, including homes, schools, and clinics, ensuring that individuals receive support in the environments where they spend most of their time. This adaptability makes ABA a valuable tool for addressing the diverse needs of people with autism.

Early Intervention Services

a mother and father with their son and daughter

Early intervention services are crucial in laying a strong foundation for young children, particularly those diagnosed with developmental delays or disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Our specialized direct therapy sessions are meticulously designed for children aged 2 - 10 years, a critical period in their developmental trajectory.

Natural Environment Sessions

We believe that children learn best in familiar settings where they feel safe and comfortable. Therefore, we conduct our therapy sessions in your child's natural environment—the home. This approach not only reduces anxiety but also allows us to integrate therapeutic activities into the daily routines of the child, making the learning process seamless and more effective. By conducting sessions at home, we can observe and address the child’s behaviors and skills in real-life situations, which is crucial for effective intervention.

Focus Areas of Our Sessions

Our therapy sessions prioritize three main areas: language development, play skills, and fostering social interactions.

Language Development: Communication is a fundamental skill that impacts many aspects of a child's life. Our sessions are designed to enhance both verbal and non-verbal communication. We use evidence-based techniques to encourage children to express their needs, thoughts, and feelings. This can involve using picture exchange systems, sign language, or developing spoken language, depending on the child’s individual needs and abilities.
Play Skills: Play is not only a natural way for children to learn but also a critical aspect of their cognitive, social, and emotional development. Our therapists use play-based strategies to teach a variety of skills, from basic motor skills to complex social games. By engaging children in structured and unstructured play, we help them develop creativity, problem-solving abilities, and social competence.
Fostering Social Interactions: Social skills are essential for forming relationships and functioning within a community. Our sessions aim to enhance a child’s ability to interact with others, understand social cues, and develop meaningful relationships. We use role-playing, group activities, and real-world scenarios to teach children how to communicate effectively, share, take turns, and understand the perspectives of others.

Supporting Parents

We understand that the journey of raising a child with developmental challenges can be daunting for parents. Our commitment extends beyond the child to include comprehensive support for parents. Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) are highly trained professionals who not only work directly with the children but also coach parents on various aspects of managing their child’s needs.

Parent Coaching: Our BCBAs provide individualized coaching sessions for parents. These sessions can help parents understand the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and how they can be applied in everyday situations. This empowers parents to reinforce positive behaviors and manage challenging behaviors effectively.
Behavior Management: Challenging behaviors can be a significant source of stress for families. Our experts work closely with parents to develop strategies for managing these behaviors. This can involve identifying triggers, implementing consistent routines, and using positive reinforcement techniques to encourage desirable behaviors.
Skill Introduction: Introducing new skills to a child can be challenging, but with the right guidance, parents can play a pivotal role in their child’s development. Our BCBAs offer practical tips and strategies for teaching new skills, whether it's potty training, improving eating habits, or enhancing communication abilities.

Holistic Approach

Our approach to early intervention is holistic, recognizing that each child is unique and requires a tailored plan that addresses their specific needs. We collaborate closely with families to ensure that the goals of the therapy align with the family’s priorities and the child’s developmental milestones.

Our early intervention services are designed to provide comprehensive support for both children and their families. By focusing on language development, play skills, and social interactions, and by offering robust support to parents, we aim to create a nurturing and effective environment for young learners to thrive.

Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of children and their families, guiding them through the challenges and celebrating the successes along the way.