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What Is ABA Therapy

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy centered on the principles of learning and behavior, and is primarily used to as a therapeutic treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

ABA explores the learning process, behavior theory, and the effects surrounding environments have on a child’s behavior. The goal of ABA therapy is to improve education, communication, socialization, and comprehension through positive reinforcement.

HHF uses a naturalistic, child-led and play-based version of ABA Therapy for our clients.

Reasons We Use ABA Therapy

It’s an evidence-based treatment endorsed by the US Surgeon General and American Psychological Association.
It’s an adaptable treatment that fits the needs of each individual.
It teaches important skills useful in everyday life.
It incorporates positive reinforcement to drive behavior goals.

ABA Therapy Principles

Individualized Approach

Since autism impacts every individual differently, ABA Therapy relies on an initial assessment prior to the start of actual therapy. This assessment is completed by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), who creates a specialized treatment plan for the individual with ASD. ABA Therapy plans are unique to fit the needs and goals of each kid!

Adaptable Nature

Even though a treatment plan is developed from an initial assessment, a child’s treatment is fluid. Based on their response, the BCBA will update a kid’s plan as therapy progresses. This flexibility ensures the ABA Therapy maintains pace with each child’s progress and continues to fit with their altering needs.

Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is the main strategy behind Applied Behavior Analysis. The BCBA identifies behavior goals in their treatment plan. Each time a child successfully practices the identified behavior goal, they receive a reward or reinforcement. The reward is something valued by the individual, which will continuously motivate them to repeat positive behavior.

Parental Involvement

Even though ABA Therapy sessions are led by the child and the behavior therapist, parents are involved in this process. This involvement allows parents to practice the strategies of a treatment plan outside of therapy sessions. It reinforces the progress made by the behavior therapist and keeps everyone in the kid’s life on the same page.

Intensive Therapy

ABA Therapy is an intensive therapy for a specific amount of time. It requires substantial time each week but also has an estimated conclusion for therapy. The weekly time range for therapy varies depending on a child’s needs. On average, therapists work with kids for 15 to 30 hours per week depending on severity, age, and treatment plan.

Benefits of ABA Therapy

Increased acknowledgement of people
Communicate more effectively
Ability to express needs specifically and clearly
Demonstrate more focus
Reduce self-harming behavior
Decreased outbursts and tantrums
Increased language skills
Increased attention and memory skills
Improve academic performance
Unlock new learning abilities
& Many more depending on each child

Evidence-Based

When a child enrolls in ABA therapy, the first 6 months of treatment are particularly important. Because many children enter programs at Helping Hands Family with no prior experience with ABA therapy, our teams may prioritize some skills more than others during a child’s first treatment plan. Two prime examples of these skills are Behavior Improvement and Learning Readiness. When we see a meaningful change in a child’s behavior, that child often becomes more engaged and available for learning. Similarly, when a child masters skills related to learning readiness, they acquire the foundational and prerequisite skills needed to progress in other skill areas. Examples of learning readiness skills include cooperation, attention to tasks, and joint attention.

EXPLORE AUTISM TREATMENT FOR YOUR CHILD NOW!

Speak with our Intake Department to see if our treatment is a fit for your family.