What is Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a type of therapy that focuses on improving specific behaviors, such as social skills, communication, as well as adaptive learning skills. ABA is effective for children and adults with psychological disorders in a variety of settings, including schools, workplaces, homes, and clinics.

ABA Techniques and Philosophy:

The provider uses a variety of ABA procedures. Some are directed by the therapist Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT) and others are directed by the person with autism Naturalistic Environment Training (NET).

Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT): the child performing the desired behavior will receive either immediate reinforcement, such as praise, edible, or access to a high preferred item; or an incorrect response will result in some form of errorless learning or error correction.

Natural Environment Training (NET): is a form of teaching that occurs in loosely structured sessions, which are initiated and paced by the child, can take place in a variety of environments, such as the home, community, or clinic and utilize a variety of items and activities which are chosen by the child.

Parents, family members and others supporting the learner may receive training so they can support learning and skill practice throughout the day.

The learner will have many opportunities to learn and implement new behaviors. This can implemented in both planned and natural situations.

The learner receives positive reinforcement for demonstrating useful skills and socially appropriate behaviors. The emphasis is on positive social interactions and enjoyable learning.

The learner receives no reinforcement for behaviors that pose harm or prevent learning.

What is the evidence that ABA works?

ABA is considered an evidence-based best practice treatment by the US Surgeon General and by the American Psychological Association.

“Evidence based” means that ABA has passed scientific tests of its usefulness, quality, and effectiveness. ABA therapy includes many different techniques. All of these techniques focus on antecedents (what happens before a behavior occurs) and on consequences (what happens after the behavior).

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Areas of Specialty

Applied Behavior Analysis - Home/School/Community Based

At Heart & Soul ABA, we treat even the smallest members of the family! From early intervention to adult, we're here for, each learner's skills, needs, interests, preferences and family situation. Our home-based ABA services are delivered in the home. Services are also available via Telehealth when appropriate.

Adaptive Living Skills

Designed to address to specific needs of individuals with development disabilities, our comprehensive adaptive and functional living skills training helps people function most effectively in their natural environments. With a focus on social awareness, community integration, effective communication, and independency, our program includes.

Social Skills Training

Our social skills training help individuals that require support to function effectively in social situations and create social skills to support positive interactions with others. Our social skills are conducted in a comfortable setting that support the clients barriers and encourage individuals with developmental disabilities to practice their social skills with others.

Parent Training

Our parent training is focused on enhancing skills and techniques that can improve communication and cooperative behavior in individuals with many disorders. Offered in an individual’s home or via Telehealth, this training provides an opportunity for parents and caregivers to learn and implement ABA strategies.

Services / Support

Who provides ABA services?

How do I get started with services?

Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is a paraprofessional certification in behavior analysis. RBTs assist in delivering behavior analysis services and practice under the direction and close supervision of an RBT Supervisor and/or an RBT Requirements Coordinator, who are responsible for all work RBTs perform.

The Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) is an undergraduate-level certification in behavior analysis. Professionals certified at the BCaBA level provide behavior analysis services under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Professionals certified at the BCaBA level may not provide behavior analysis services without the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA). BCaBAs may supervise the work of Registered Behavior Technicians.

The Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a graduate-level certification in behavior analysis. Professionals certified at the BCBA level are independent practitioners who provide behavior analysis services. BCBAs may supervise the work of Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBAs), Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), and other professionals who implement behavior-analytic interventions.

BCBAs with doctoral training in behavior analysis may receive the designation of Board Certified Behavior Analyst-DoctoralTM (BCBA-D). The BCBA-D is not a separate certification and it does not grant any privileges above or beyond the BCBA certification. If you are certified at the BCBA-D level, you function in the same capacity as a BCBA (i.e., as an independent practitioner who provides behavior-analytic services) and are required to meet all BCBA maintenance requirements.

How do I get started with services?

Reach out to your pediatrician or other medical provider and ask about ABA therapies.The medical professional may discuss whether ABA is right for your child. They can write a prescription for ABA if it is necessary for your insurance.
Check with your insurance carrier to confirm that they cover the cost of ABA therapy and all the details involved.
Ask your child’s doctor and other professionals (teachers) for recommendations.
Check the insurance provider directory to assist with finding an ABA provider near you.
Call the ABA provider and request an intake evaluation.