Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) Therapists in A1B
I typically work with clients who are struggling with various aspects of everyday life and would like some support as they work through a difficult time, transition, or issue that has emerged for them. My clients are often seeking ways forward to move through these challenging moments as well as new skills for life ahead so they can thrive once again, and feel fully engaged with life and its positive behaviours and emotions. Much of my time is spent carrying out assessments with clients who are wondering about characteristics they see in themselves, or that their parents wonder about (e.g., autism).
I typically work with clients who are struggling with various aspects of everyday life and would like some support as they work through a difficult time, transition, or issue that has emerged for them. My clients are often seeking ways forward to move through these challenging moments as well as new skills for life ahead so they can thrive once again, and feel fully engaged with life and its positive behaviours and emotions. Much of my time is spent carrying out assessments with clients who are wondering about characteristics they see in themselves, or that their parents wonder about (e.g., autism).
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Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) Counsellors
Who is ABA therapy for?
ABA therapy is most widely applied to teach basic behavioral, communication, and social skills to children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disorders. It may also be used to help people undergoing rehabilitation following brain injury. It uses reward-based learning techniques to impart essential life skills. ABA is also used in the treatment of some other conditions. One is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), to help children overcome difficulties with concentration and controlling impulsive behaviours. For people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, it is sometimes used to help them overcome compulsive behavior. ABA therapy is also sometimes used in cases of PTSD, to help people turn to positive behaviours when they have experiences that trigger distressing memories.
Why do people need ABA?
Children with autism and other developmental disorders need ABA therapy as a way to learn how to communicate and engage with others, improve their general ability to function and lead fulfilling lives, and diminish dangerous behaviors. The techniques used in ABA therapy are based on established principles of learning, and positive reinforcement—supplying earned rewards—is an important strategy for motivating positive behaviour change.
What happens in ABA therapy?
The first thing that happens in ABA therapy is an evaluation of the child in service of developing a treatment plan. The therapist meets with the child’s parent(s) in order to learn about the family and the child, assesses the child’s behaviour and ability level, and then creates a plan tailored to the specific needs of that person. Once the treatment goals are established, the skills to be learned are broken down into small, component steps. Treatment sessions focus on learning and practicing each step, and furnishing meaningful rewards as steps are learned, behaviours are spontaneously implemented, and goals are accomplished. ABA therapists also train caregivers and families so that behavioural progress occurs beyond the clinical setting.
What problems does ABA therapy treat?
One of the primary goals of ABA therapy is to decrease the outbursts and other nonproductive behaviours of children with autism. At the same time, ABA aims to remedy language deficits and help such children learn how to communicate successfully. ABA therapy helps children learn age-appropriate social skills and gain skills, such as attention and focus, that are necessary for school.