What is ABA?

A scientific backed strategy for inducing behavioral transformations is the application of the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). With a foundation in research, ABA can significantly impact the establishment of socially significant and constructive actions. This approach centers on activities that are quantifiable and discernible, taking into account their antecedents and outcomes. The goal of this practice is to promote constructive, fundamental actions that benefit an individual’s daily life, with particular emphasis on reinforcing functional and important skills. The advantages of ABA surpass learning and actively encourage a sense of consistency and permanence. While maintaining newly acquired abilities, the generalization of knowledge and understanding ensures the ability to implement the actions and reactions learned in any setting and to a variety of stimuli. Furthermore, ABA intervenes with actions or impulses that may hinder learning by promoting productive behavior such as play, communication, and self-help abilities. As we individualize each child’s curricula, specific skill areas including language, independent play, social aptitude, imitation, and gross and fine motor abilities become key focal points in implementing effective change. The outcomes of the ABA strategy make for lasting benefits by elevating important and fundamental abilities for a successful future.

What Does ABA Focus On?

Aba can be used to focus on some of the following areas relative to behavior:

  • Language and Functional Communication: Communicating needs/wants to others.
  • Independent Play: Playing alone without assistance.
  • Social Skills: Interacting with others.
  • Imitation: Imitating behaviors or vocalizations of others.
  • Gross/Fine Motor Skills: Control over balance and body movement.
  • Listener Responding: Attending and responding to spoken words.
  • Visual/Perceptual Skills: Interpreting things he/she sees visually.
  • Self-help Skills: Skills such as dressing, grooming, feeding, toilet training.

Does ABA Therapy Work?

ABA therapy is scientifically backed based on a set of methods that range from token economy to positive reinforcement utilizing the token economy. While Token economy is effective it is not good for every child. This is the greatness of Applied Behavior Analysis. It is a Scientifically studied area which has many different methods that can be utilized as tailored and specialized interventions with base guidelines that must be followed for each method.

Can ABA Therapy Cure Autism?

Currently, there is no “Cure” for Autism. However, using Applied Behavior Analysis there are many interventions, strategies, and other methods that can easily be implemented, with time, to make Autism feel more like an allergy. We are aware it is there and present, however it does not affect our ability to function in daily life. This is what Applied Behavior Analysis is designed to do, ABA does not cure Autism but helps to reduce the intensity an individual may be experiencing.

Is ABA Therapy Considered Healthcare

ABA is considered a “Medically Necessary Treatment” for individuals diagnosed with Autism and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Some insurances consider ABA to be Behavioral Health, although most people generally agree upon.

Does ABA Therapy Include Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis does work on tasks that Occupational and Speech Therapists may engage in to help progress each individual in specific areas. However, we do not focus on the function of the speech like a speech therapist would. We would work on the behavior associated with the action the speech therapist or occupational therapist.

Does ABA Therapy Replace Schools?

ABA Therapy is extremely effective and beneficial for improving individuals’ learning capabilities and behaviors associated with learning. However, ABA in itself is not designed to replace school. Even though most things worked on may involve school tasks. If an IEP has been developed however, the goals implemented may revolve around school scenarios.

Is Parent Involvement Required, Necessary, or Possible?

Parent involvement is very important, Implementing the strategies designed by the Behavioral Therapist in places outside the clinic, like at the client’s home, is necessary in order to properly intervene and maintain consistency in modifying each behavior. While it is not required to implement strategies at home the results will be much better if parental involvement is possible.

If a Parent wishes to get involved more or feels they are not being given enough information or time to ask questions, please contact the front office in order to get appointments with the BCBA scheduled.

What Is ABA therapy used for?

Applied Behavior Analysis therapy is used to treat underlying causes of societies classification of poor behaviors in order to prevent maladaptive behavior to emerge as often. These poor behaviors are typically based on a set of tests performed as well as societal “norms”. For example, Client A does not maintain eye contact or is seated when being spoken to. ABA therapy is designed to help teach the child that sitting and eye contact must be maintained and is considered polite. This behavior will be taught using ABA methods and a tailed treatment plan.

Is ABA Covered by Insurance? Who qualifies for ABA coverage?

Applied Behavior Analysis is very effective although getting coverage is currently limited. Currently, only those who are diagnosed with Autism or Fetal Alcohol Syndrome will be covered 100% by an insurance company. If the child does not have either of the two diagnosis, ABA services may still be rendered. Although paying out of pocket can get fairly costly.

What methods does ABA use?

There are many methods involved in Applied Behavior Analysis. Some things that may be utilized are positive reinforcement, shaping, chaining, prompting, and fading techniques. The techniques used by ABA must be, and are all scientifically backed and driven.

What makes our company different?

Our company is different to other companies as we tend to care more about the quality than the quantity of services. Many ABA clinics get children in and just push the information necessary to apply ABA methods claiming they do it in order to maximize efficiency. This method is effective, however causes the child to develop discontentment and results in potential maladaptive behaviors to occur in more strategic ways that goes behind providers and the parents back. For example, we can all learn how to become flexible or strong with the right training, however, if that training is pushed too hard, we may experience decline or other health risks. This is the same for ABA, lessons and interventions can be implemented for anyone, it’s about how the intended implementation is actually implemented. Our company strives to bring out good behavior as well as each child’s creative side in a timely manner, not suppress it just to meet societal standards faster.

Who works with my child?

Each child is assigned a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) which will be the primary individual that your child may work with. However, most individuals benefit from multiple or alternating RBT’s, if multiple RBT’s are utilized the parent will always be informed of any updates or changes to the child’s individualized plan. Along with this the BCBA will meet with the child at least once a week and sometimes twice a week.

How often will I see the BCBA?

The BCBA may be seen at least once a week and may vary depending on situations that are presented at the time. If more than once a week is necessary, please contact the front desk or RBT at any moment to schedule a meeting with the BCBA.

What is the standard process I should expect coming into or beginning ABA Therapy?

The standard process for ABA therapy is the initial meeting in order to figure out exactly what the parent may or may not want to see out of ABA therapy, as well as discussing potential behaviors that need addressing or further investigation.

After the initial meeting the BCBA either on the same day, or on a later date will reach out to the parent and schedule and perform an assessment. This assessment will determine goals that meet the Nevada State Law guidelines that may be utilized by providers in order to provide ABA therapy ethically. After this assessment the BCBA will design a Treatment Plan also known as the FA11E.

After the FA11E is submitted and approved by the insurance company, our facility will reach out to you in order to go over the approved hours and the staff member will confirm times that work best for the ABA treatment as well as inform you of the RBT that will be working with the child.

How long am I and/or my child expected to attend Therapy?

Therapy itself is individualized and personalized to each individual attending therapy. That being said, individuals will receive an expected discharge date, typically ranging anywhere from 1 month to 2 years, depending on how many behaviors need addressing and their severity. The average time spent in ABA is 30 hours a week for 2-6 months. However, this varies with everyone based on their specific needs.