What is ABA?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based therapy focused on understanding and improving behavior. By using principles of learning and reinforcement, ABA helps children and adults develop new skills, reduce problematic behaviors, and improve overall quality of life. Rooted in decades of research, ABA is the gold standard for treating autism and other developmental disabilities. At Beyond Behavior, we tailor each treatment plan to meet your child’s unique needs, empowering them to thrive and achieve their fullest potential.
How Sessions Work
ABA therapy sessions are highly individualized and may vary based on your child’s needs and treatment goals. Here’s what a typical session might involve:
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Initial Assessment: Before starting therapy, our Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand your child’s strengths, areas for growth, and behavioral challenges.
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Goal Setting: Based on the assessment, the BCBA creates a personalized treatment plan with clear, measurable goals that reflect your family’s values.
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Direct Therapy: Our trained Behavior Technicians deliver one-on-one therapy sessions using techniques such as discrete trial training, natural environment teaching, and positive reinforcement. Sessions are designed to be fun, engaging, and rewarding.
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Progress Monitoring: Data collection is integral to every session. Our therapists continuously monitor your child’s progress and adjust teaching strategies to ensure effective learning.
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Parent Collaboration: We work closely with parents and caregivers to offer practical guidance, coaching, and feedback, ensuring consistency and success at home.
What skills can ABA Help Address?
Communication Skills
- Enhancing verbal and non-verbal communication.
- Teaching functional communication techniques for those with limited speech.
Social Skills
- Improving interactions with peers and adults.
- Understanding and responding to social cues and norms.
Behavioral Challenges
- Reducing behaviors such as aggression, self-injury, and tantrums.
- Increasing positive behaviors through reinforcement strategies.
Play Skills
- Encouraging appropriate play with toys and interaction with peers.
- Developing imagination and cooperative play abilities.
Daily Living Skills
- Teaching practical life skills such as grooming, dressing, and eating.
- Promoting independence in various daily activities.
Emotional Regulation
- Helping individuals manage anxiety, frustration, and emotional responses.
- Teaching coping strategies and stress management techniques.
Safety Skills
- Teaching important safety concepts like street safety, stranger awareness, and emergency responses.
Executive Functioning
- Building skills for planning, organization, and time management.
- Enhancing decision-making and problem-solving abilities.