Everyone has certain skills they need to develop to cope with the challenges of life. Sometimes, children experiencing disabilities or behavioral challenges do not build these essential skills at the same rate their peers do. They can have difficulty getting dressed, using the bathroom, or following instructions.
Applied Behavior Analysis, usually called ABA therapy, is one way parents can help their children.
ABA has a long history in psychology. It derives from the principles of behaviorism. Behaviorists noticed that certain kinds of stimuli, positive or negative, led to certain behaviors. They started out applying the ideas to animal behavior and training, but they were soon able to gain a better understanding of people.
Modern ABA therapy helps children living with disabilities or behavioral challenges to learn socially significant behaviors that will make their lives easier. The goal of ABA therapy is to help children act appropriately based on valuable social norms, erasing the disadvantages they face because they do not understand these norms “automatically.”
At the same time, the child learns practical skills to help them navigate the world.
What Are the Benefits of ABA Therapy?
When administered by professionals in a caring environment, ABA therapy has the potential to help children with disabilities behave in ways that foster success in school, at home, and in the community.
ABA therapy is customized to the needs of the individual and the family, so there is no one “perfect” way to do it. However, one thing that’s always true is that early intervention is paramount. Patients often begin with ABA therapy before kindergarten in the hopes it will impact their academic results.
Some potential outcomes of ABA therapy include:
- Improved ability to sit quietly in situations such as school and daycare
- Reduced emotional and physical outbursts in overwhelming situations
- Greater/more active participation with instructions, conversations, and/or lessons by parents and teachers
- Ideally, improved ability to learn in non-therapeutic situations (like school)
In the course of ABA therapy, the therapist directly addresses specific problem behaviors the patient exhibits. This often takes the form of encouraging patients not to act on disruptive physical impulses. Gradually, parents report less and less of these behaviors. Teachers and caregivers are thrilled!
When Is ABA Therapy Used?
ABA therapy is extremely versatile. Any child aged three or older facing difficulties caused by a learning disability or emotional disability may be considered a candidate. It is important to discuss all your needs and concerns with qualified experts such as those at AchieveAbility Therapy.
While ABA therapy is frequently used in connection with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), that is not its only use. It has proven, long-lasting results in cases of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and others. Children do not need to be currently in treatment, but an existing diagnosis is helpful.
Is ABA therapy right for your child? We are here to help you find out.
In an initial consultation, our therapists will meet with and evaluate your child. Naturally, you have the right to be present during all evaluations. After a brief time together, we can discuss potential ways to help your child meet your behavioral goals. This may include ABA therapy and other interventions.
ABA therapy often stands on its own as the primary intervention for children in need. The highly trained staff at AchieveAbility Therapy also offers a range of other services that can help. For example, children who are preverbal or have communication difficulties may benefit from our music therapy.
Children whose condition impacts coordination and fine motor control can see marked improvement by combining ABA therapy with occupational therapy. Occupational therapy was designed to enhance basic motor movement while also equipping patients with employable skills.
No matter what therapeutic approach you select, you receive ongoing support from the community of experts here at AchieveAbility Therapy. Our ultimate goal is always independence and sustainability outside the therapy environment. We are with you every step of the way.
It’s Not Too Late (and Never Too Early) to Start Your Family’s Therapy Journey
AchieveAbility is staffed by “front-line therapists” who have obtained a Registered Behavior Technician certification issued by the BACB. Specialists and senior therapists hold other advanced credentials. We will be glad to discuss how our years of experience inform the care your child will receive.
We know that finding the right solution for your child can be a challenge. With school, daycare, and more to worry about, you need therapists who will go the extra mile to support you. AchieveAbilty is here for you. We pride ourselves on getting to know our patients and their families.
Contact us to find out more or get started. We look forward to helping you soon.
