ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis) Therapy
What is ABA?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) uses the scientific principles of learning and motivation in order to effectively teach. It focuses on the idea that the consequences (good or bad) of what we do affect what we learn and what we will do in the future.
Who can benefit from ABA Therapy?
ABA is effective with a wide spectrum of behaviors and ability levels. ABA can benefit individuals with learning differences and those who are diagnosed with a variety of neuordivergences. This can include autism, ADD/ADHD, PDD-NOS, traumatic brain injury, and developmental disabilities.
Where can you receive ABA Therapy?
School or childcare
Following schedule/routines and transitions
Appropriate engagement
Staying on task
Home
Completion of routines (morning/night)
Activities of daily living (dressing/grooming)
Household tasks/chores
Reduce tantrums/behaviors, increased cooperation
Verbal Behavior (VB)
Echoics - repeats what you say
Mands - commands or demands
Tacts - labeling items
Intraverbals - a verbal exchange
Natural Environment Training (NET)
Focused on natural occurrences
Pivotal Response Training (PRT)
Uses NET, focusing on increased motivation adding options and reinforcing attempts.
Clinic/Center
Receptive/Expressive language skills
Social skills
Activities of daily living
Listening/following directions
Sharing/taking turns
Token economies/charts/waiting/work completion
Types of ABA Therapy:
Discrete Trial Training (DTT)
Teaches skills by breaking into simplified parts, short/frequent trials, one on one teaching.
Self-Management Training (SMT)
Increase independence and generalization of skills.
ABA is not a single protocol or technique but rather is an approach or set of techniques tailored to individual’s strengths and challenges.
How can I determine if ABA is right for my family?
Call and speak with ABA providers about your hopes and concerns and how ABA Therapy can support your child.
Research and learn more about ABA Therapy. Child Mind Institute has a couple articles that provides more information about ABA Therapy. You can find these here and here
Explore how ABA can be incorporated into your child’s current school/childcare
Explore how ABA can fit into your schedule
Talk to others parents about their experiences with ABA Therapy. Parent to Parent is a program in Whatcom County where you can connect with other parents.
How Can I Access ABA?
There are several providers in Whatcom County that offer ABA Therapy. You can learn more about the providers here
To access ABA therapy, you can contact the providers on the list above for next steps. You can also complete Whatcom County’s Unified ABA intake packet and fax to any of the ABA providers on the list.