Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA)
What is ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis) and is it right for your child?
Applied Behavior Analysis. Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a type of therapy that focuses on improving specific behaviors such as social skills, communication, reading, and academics as well as adaptive learning skills, such as fine motor dexterity, hygiene, grooming, domestic capabilities, punctuality, and job competence. ABA is effective for children and adults with psychological disorders in a variety of settings, including schools, workplaces, homes, and clinics. It has also been shown that consistent ABA can significantly improve behaviors and skills and decrease the need for special services.
Behaviors are learned.
This simple truth is the basis of all applied behavior analysis. Though some behaviors may be developed early on, as early as in the womb, behavior analysts operate on the basic premise that behaviors are learned and are either strengthened or weakened by the consequences that follow. Behavior is also considered to be functional. That is, the behavior serves a purpose and meets a specific need. We believe that if an individual is taught an appropriate and alternative method of getting the same need met, just as new behaviors can be learned, old behaviors can also be unlearned.
One of the strengths of ABA for children with autism is that it can address every behavior relevant to that child (both excesses and deficits). Behavior Analysts are not distracted by the many different theories regarding the causes of autism (along with their related treatments) and so have been able to steadily develop and refine their approach.
- Research shows it helps develop behavioral skills. Studies show that ABA therapy is effective in helping people with autism to learn skills. For example, one study found that the Early Start Denver Model helped children improve in IQ and behavior. It also decreased the severity of their autism diagnosis.
- ABA can be used to teach simple and complex skills. For example, ABA can be used to reward children for brushing their teeth correctly or for sharing their toys with friends.
- It gives parents strategies for teaching children at home. ABA helps to give parents a guide for teaching and a way to measure progress. For example, it can help parents teach language by breaking it down into syllables rather than full words.
- It shows that kids with autism are capable of learning. ABA helps to give children with autism a chance to show that they are capable of learning and modifying behaviors. For some, that may include teaching them to sleep through the night or helping them learn to make friends.
*ABA Services provided by Henrietta Egbunike, BCBA, QBA
STARTING SERVICES
1. INTAKE APPLICATON-PARENTS
After inquiring about services, our team will email you an intake application which includes a detailed interview about your child’s needs and barriers that you are hoping to address with ABA services
2. AUTHORIZATION FOR ASSESSMENT
Once the intake consultation is complete, we will work with your insurance company to request an authorization for an initial assessment. Typically, it takes 3-10 business days for your insurance company to provide authorization for assessment.
3. INTAKE ASSESSMENT
Once the authorization is received, we will reach out to you to schedule an intake assessment. This assessment occurs over 1-3 sessions in the clinic, home, and/or telehealth settings. Sessions typically last 60-90 minutes and are spread out over the course of a week. There will be an initial parent interview followed by an in-person observation and assessment conducted at the clinic. BCBAs conduct all assessments but may be accompanied by a behavior technician to determine if they may be a good fit for your child’s team.
4. REVIEW OF TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Following the assessment, one of our BCBAs will set a time to review outcomes of the assessment, the treatment plan, and recommended service hours and treatment goals. Treatment recommendations are based on evaluation outcomes and medical necessity. Once the plan is finalized, a request for treatment hours based on medical necessity is submitted to your insurance company for authorization.
AUTHORIZATION OF ABA SERVICES
Once our team has reviewed the treatment plan with you we will share this plan along with request to begin ABA services to your insurance company. Typically insurance companies respond with approval and authorization to begin services in 7-14 business days.
SETTING SCHEDULE
While we wait for authorization, our team will work with you to create a schedule based on your child's availably and recommended treatment hours. Based on the outcomes of the assessments and your scheduling needs, we will create a team of behavior therapists and assign a BCBA to supervise your child’s program.
