Applied Behavior Analysis is a therapy that is based on learning the functional relationship between one’s behaviors and their environment. Data is collected on the stimuli that elicits, increases, decreases, or maintains the child’s behavior. The data is analyzed and a treatment plan or an individualized ABA program is implemented. As the child’s treatment progresses, data is collected and analyzed again to determine treatment effectiveness. A Behavior Therapist (BT) implements the program to help the child learn skills that are more functional, replace undesirable behaviors, and teach independence to improve quality of life.

Using the principles of ABA and the theories of behaviorist B.F. Skinner, we teach communication through verbal behavior. Verbal Behavior is the actions of a person that are reinforced by a listener. It is a way of understanding the different purposes of language (e.g., a child may use language to ask for things, or to label things in their environment). Each child has their own method of communication – words, signs, augmentative devices, pictures, etc., but all children need to learn to be effective communicators. Our goal at ABH is to help children and families understand that communicating produces positive results.

ABH believes that children who show deviation from the developmental milestones as early as the first year of life may already receive behavioral intervention. Early intervention means identifying and providing effective early support to children and young people to prevent other developmental problems occurring or getting worse.

ABA provides social skills programs to children with difficulties socializing in different settings. The focus of the program is to increase the child’s overall ability to:

• Recognize and understand verbal and non-verbal communication
• Develop appropriate peer relationships
• Expanding their interest in age-appropriate topics, play, and toys
• Increase sensitivity towards others’ emotions

We pride on giving children programs that are individualized to meet their needs. We begin our treatment planning by completing initial assessments including but not limited to Functional Behavior Assessments, Preference Assessments, VB-MAPP, AFLS, ABLLS, to guide instruction and develop the most effective treatment plan possible for each child. Each skill area/domain contains specific programs designed to increase each child’s functioning and independence. Individual Treatment Plan goals will be established with the collaboration of parents, and/or the school district, and/or other professionals that are involved with the child’s well-being.
In ABH, our treatment plans target language, speech, cognitive skills, academic/school readiness, behavior management, play, and social skills. All our treatment plans and programs are made by our Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).