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What Is ABA Therapy? And More Questions Answered

In Education
September 13, 2021
What Is ABA Therapy? And More Questions Answered

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is widely regarded as the standard gold treatment for kids and adults with behavioral disorders like autism. However, few people understand what the therapy entails. 

Most of the information available on the internet is either conflicting or outdated. The situation is made even more complicated because ABA therapies vary depending on the patient’s medical circumstances. 

This piece explains what ABA therapy is all about and answers some of the frequently asked questions about the treatment.

So, what is ABA therapy? ABA is a form of behavioral therapy that applies the principles of behavior study to assist patients with autism, and other developmental challenges lead safer and meaningful lives. This therapy was first used in the early 1970s and is still considered the most reliable treatment for autism. 

The treatment focuses on discouraging harmful behavior in patients and equipping them with necessary skills such as communication, social skills, self-care, basic hygiene etiquette, play, and learning abilities. 

Though there are several intervention programs within aba therapy, modern treatments are highly customized to suit patients’ needs. More details on the intervention programs are available from sites like AppliedBehaviorAnalysisEdu.org.

What Does The Therapy entail?

ABA is a specialized program where a qualified board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) evaluates the patient then determines a suitable treatment plan depending on the patient’s skill level, preferences, and family situation. 

The practitioners use a combination of rewards and repetition to reinforce desirable behaviors. During the treatment, the therapist rewards the patient every time they successfully perform the desired task. Dangerous behaviors are ignored altogether.

How long does the therapy take?

Every patient is unique. Patients will have different skill levels, needs, and wants. The length of the program will ultimately depend on how well your child is responding to the program.

How many therapists are involved in the program?

Generally, each patient will have a BCBA overseeing their therapy. However, the BCBA works with other specialists such as registered behavior technicians (RBTs) to administer the treatment to kids and other patients. 

Working with multiple specialists is essential in ensuring kids acquire social skills that are necessary for real-life situations. 

Additionally, if the leading specialist is sick or unavailable, your kid will always have trained personnel to carry on with the treatment.

How costly is ABA Treatment?

Treatment programs can be quite costly, given the level of customization involved. Luckily, insurance policies cover such therapies, thus easing the financial strain for parents with autistic kids. Plenty of options are available for parents, so be sure to choose one that ticks all your boxes.

How many hours per week are necessary for behavioral improvement?

Children and adolescents with behavioral disorders require repetitive targeted therapy to reinforce desired skills. It is common for specialists to spend between 20 to 40 hours per week with patients for intensive treatments. 

A typical ABA session is similar to your ordinary classroom interaction. For home-based care, therapists can instruct parents on what to do to ensure no gaps in the treatment program.