Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Services

ABA is an evidence-based intervention that focuses on teaching communication, social skills, and self-care as well as addressing challenging behavior in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Comprehensive Early Intervention Program

For young children with Autism, Comprehensive Early Intervention, utilizing the techniques of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), leads to the greatest developmental outcomes. Comprehensive interventions can encompass up to 40 hours of therapy a week, typically in a 1:1 format. The child is taught skills related to communication and social interactions, while addressing restricted interests or challenging behavior. Comprehensive Early Intervention addresses a variety of domains of development. Therapists develop thorough Treatment Plans to monitor skill acquisition and progress. CFD utilizes play-based, naturalistic instruction when working with young children, ensuring intervention is developmentally appropriate, fun, and family friendly.

Functional Behavior Asessments

Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) address challenging behavior. During the assessment, the function or “why” of a behavior is evaluated, giving families a better understanding what may trigger a behavior. Using function, a BIP outlines helpful strategies and recommendations to prevent the behaviors and how to react to them when they do happen.

Caregiver Training

Caregiver Education involves participation and training of adults involved in the child’s every day care. It is vital that caregivers understand how to encourage language and social interactions, while preventing and responding to challenging behavior. Caregivers can be trained how to follow through with therapy procedures and aid their child’s development at home. Caregivers will be given goals of their own to master to create the best environment for the child.

Questions from Parents

What is ABA Therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a science-based approach that helps people learn new skills and reduce challenging behaviors. ABA focuses on understanding how behavior works, why it happens and how the environment can be adjusted to support positive growth. ABA can benefit people of all ages, however it is primarily used to support children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental needs.

Can my child receive ABA if they do not have Autism?

A variety of children with and without diagnoses can benefit from ABA. It is common for ABA therapists to complete “behavior consultations” for children who are experiencing challenging behaviors that impact participation in school or home events. We are happy to discuss behavior consultations with families, but at this time, most commercial insurance companies only provide coverage for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

What skills can ABA help with?

ABA can support growth in many areas such as communication, social interaction, self-help and daily living skills (eating, dressing and toileting), academic readiness, play skills, emotional regulation and reducing challenging behaviors. The focus is always personalized to the child’s needs and goals.

How does ABA therapy fit in with other therapies my child may be receiving (speech, OT, PT)?

C&FD is a multi-disciplinary clinic, meaning that if your child is receiving different therapies, the therapists will work alongside each other to collaborate on goals and share expertise. While therapists each have their own goals and modalities, C&FD is committed to focusing on “whole-child” development, and individualize treatment for each client. Typically, ABA works closely with Speech Therapy related to communication and feeding goals. We collaborate with Occupational Therapy regarding task completion, sensory supports, and emotional regulation. With Physical Therapists, we work together on community participation and direction following.

Where are ABA services provided?

ABA services at C&FD are unique, and are provided at our Pineville location, Midtown location, in homes, as well as in the community. Depending on your insurance coverage and location, ABA therapists are also able to provide services to your child while at preschool or daycare. We recommend, when possible, a child receive services in a variety of locations to ensure generalization of skills.

How many hours of ABA would my child participate in?

The number of hours of therapy depends on skill development, assessment, and child availability. At C&FD, we prioritize quality over quantity and do not have a minimum number of required hours. A child’s schedule will be created in collaboration with family goals and needs.

What does a typical ABA session look like?

ABA sessions are individualized, but usually include a mix of structured activities and natural play. A sample session might include: a building activity with blocks (working on turn taking, color identification, and prepositions), book reading (addressing identification of common objects, attentiveness, and recall), sensory gym time (focusing on following directions, waiting, and transitions), and game play (interacting with peers and emotional regulation). Our objective is for sessions to be fun! Throughout session, therapists follow the child’s lead in choosing toys and activities, and embed goals within play.

Can parents participate in ABA?

Absolutely! C&FD offers caregiver-focused sessions to assist in generalizing therapy goals to home and the community. Caregivers are encouraged to join any sessions!