What is ABA?
Here at H.E.A.L Behavioral Consulting you will find staff well versed in the practices of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a science used to assess and alter problem behaviors to improve functionality within the environment. Through ABA we are focused on providing our clients with the skills needed to thrive in their environment, whether that means gaining independence in daily living and self care routines or acquiring academic knowledge such as language and fine motor skills. ABA allows us to analyze human behavior and identify what is causing socially significant problem behaviors. From there, we are able to use techniques such as positive and negative reinforcement, prompting, and modeling (to name a few) to replace and modify these behaviors. ABA practices are typically associated with aiding people with Autism or other related disorders but can also be used with those affected by behavioral challenges who are not diagnosed with a developmental disability.
What is Autism?
Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), does not have a singular definition that can define what all people with Autism experience, meaning, Autism is unique for each individual. However, it is commonly described as a deficit in communication and social skills with incredible aptitude in something entirely specific to the individual’s interests, and is also characterized by repetitive sounds or movements. Its causes are known to encompass a wide range of genetic and environmental factors, so it cannot be mediated by one exclusive treatment. Although Autism cannot be healed, knowing a child’s developmental milestones and recognizing signs of delay may help in early diagnosis and through an early intervention program, may be able to greatly decrease the effect Autism could otherwise have later in life.
Resources for Autism and Practice Guidelines for ABA
If you are new to ABA, these books and websites are a great place to begin!
Parent's Guide to Applied Behavior Analysis
Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT)
Division of Developmental Disabilities (DSHS)
-Let Me Hear Your Voice: A Family's Triumph over Autism by Catherine Maurice
Find it here on Amazon!
-The Verbal Behavior Approach: How to Teach Children With Autism and Related Disorders by Mary Barbera
Find it here on Amazon!
-The Parent's Guide to In-Home ABA Programs: Frequently Asked Questions about Applied Behavior Analysis for your Child with Autism by Elle Olivia Johnson
Find it here on Amazon!
-Teaching Good Learner Repertoires by Steven Ward, MA, BCBA and Teresa Grimes, MS, BCBA
Find it here on Amazon!