ABA therapy basics
What is ABA therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA, is a therapy approach that uses behavior science to teach skills, reduce barriers to learning, and support everyday functioning. Programs should be individualized, supervised, measured, and adjusted over time.
Individual goals
Plans should be based on assessment, family priorities, communication needs, safety, daily living skills, and the child or client as a whole person.
Supervision
A BCBA typically designs and supervises treatment while RBTs or behavior technicians may deliver direct sessions.
Settings
ABA may happen in a clinic, home, school, community setting, or through telehealth support depending on the program and coverage.
How to evaluate a program
Ask how goals are selected, how assent and preferences are respected, how progress is measured, how often the BCBA supervises care, how parent training works, and what happens if your child is distressed or not progressing.