What Is ABA?
What Is ABA?In simple terms, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based scientific approach used to change or improve an individual’s behavior and develop learning and functional skills while considering environmental variables. ABA offers clinical treatment options that allow kids to generalize skills learned in the treatment program and apply them to everyday situations in their home, school, and community.
What Is Autism?
Autism is a developmental disorder that is often associated with very specific characteristics. Each person with autism is unique, but there are some common signs such as:
- Delayed speech
- Loss of previously acquired speech
- Avoiding eye contact
- Not responding to name
- Lack of social interactions
- Repetitive behaviors (hand flapping, rocking back and forth, and spinning)
- Hypersensitivity to sounds, light, and textures
- Aggressive behaviors
- Limited imaginary play skills
Will ABA Therapy Work for My Child?
ABA therapy is the gold standard as an evidence-based approach to treating children with autism and developmental delays. ABA therapy addresses developmental challenges, including areas of language, communication, social skills, play skills, self-care skills, and day-to-day living skills. Our program is individualized to each child to maximize the potential of your child’s successful progression through the program. Weekly program and data monitoring ensure that the most effective treatment techniques are being used and any modifications are addressed in a timely manner.
What Is the Best Age Range to Start ABA Therapy?
Research has shown the benefits of starting ABA therapy as early as two years old. Children who start early often make the most significant improvements. At early stages, challenging habits are more easily broken, and the brain is still malleable making learning easier. However, it is never too late to start ABA therapy.
How Long Should My Child Continue in ABA?
The goal of ABA treatment is to help your child achieve and maintain maximum functionality and freedom from debilitating behaviors and conditions. How long your child should continue in ABA therapy is dependent on individualized considerations of treatment efficacy, goals and objectives. Research has demonstrated that typically a child with autism receiving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy a week for at least two to three years provides the best results. The total weekly hours of ABA treatment may vary depending on a child’s needs, parents’ scheduling issues, and insurance authorizations. We will work with you to try and overcome barriers to accessing appropriate levels of service intensity. When families cannot commit to intensive therapy, other options are considered when developing the treatment plan.
What Is My Level of Involvement as a Parent?
The most successful programs for children are generally those in which there is a high level of parental involvement. Parents typically participate in a weekly meeting with their child’s BCBA to discuss progress, concerns and learn about the ABA techniques used. This allows parents to help implement programs as appropriate The more the child will practice, the better your child will become at using those skills.
Will My Insurance Cover My Child’s ABA Therapy?
Clients can receive benefits from their insurance companies. Your individual policy determines the details, terms, and specific benefits. We are an in-network provider with leading health insurers in Texas for ABA therapy. Please call us today, and we can verify your insurance coverage for you.
Contact Breakthrough ABA for More Information
If you have any questions or concerns not addressed in this FAQ, please reach out to us at 281.899.0146.