What Does ABA Look Like?
At the start of each session, the BCBA, BCaBA, or RBT working with the client will work on pairing with the child in order to build rapport. Pairing includes setting up the environment so that the child gains access to toys/activities by interacting with the analyst/technician. The analyst/technician will follow the motivation of the client, selecting toys/activities to use that the client has showed interest with in the past. Once the client has had several opportunities to mand (request) for preferred items/activities, play, etc. (typically 15-20 minutes) and gains access to those preferred items/activities, the client views the analyst/technician as a conditioned reinforcer. The client is then more likely to follow the lead of the analyst/technician, interact with him/her, comply with demands, and view the session as a positive and fun part of their day!
Once pairing of the client and analyst/technician is established, intervention can begin. Our behavioral interventions are based upon the established principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and focus on several areas of development, including, but not limited to, decreasing severe/challenging behaviors, increasing skill acquisition, increasing social skills, and increasing functional communication.
The following are examples of several components of intervention that are commonly used, research based, and widely accepted by behavior analysis practitioners, health insurance, and families. Click on any of the following to learn more:
Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)
Joint Attention (JA)
Verbal Behavior (VB)
Natural Environment Training (NET)
Discreet Trial Training (DTT)
Pivotal Response Training (PRT)
Functional Communication Training (FCT)
Shaping
Fading
Integrated Behavior Solutions strongly believes in family involvement in all aspects of the client’s treatment plan. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to participate in each session as they are available. The analyst consulting for the client will establish parent training goals that can be incorporated into the session with the child, as well as establish 1:1 training goals that can be administered at times separate from the child’s schedule. The analyst will train the parent/guardian on how to appropriately prevent, respond to, and replace challenging behaviors, as well as how to establish increased instructional control with the child.
At the end of each session, the analyst/technician will spend a few minutes discussing the client’s session with the parent(s)/guardian(s). The analyst/technician will discuss recent successes, upcoming goals, materials needed, as well as any areas of concern.