Photo of Strength Counselling Services, Counsellor in Hamilton, ON
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8K  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(249) 202-2308 View (249) 202-2308
Photo of Patricia James, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Patricia James
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CNP, RN, BScN, BA Psyc
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8H
As a Certified Nurse Psychotherapist (CNP) and a Registered Psychotherapist (RP), I counsel and support individuals experiencing a range of mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, trauma, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and attention deficit disorders. I also provide counselling and support to individuals who are seeking help for problems with substance use issues. Concepts in Mental Health and Resilience therapeutic approach combines psychodynamic theory, cognitive theory, client centred therapy, and holistic therapy to help our clients manage their problems and build mental health resilience.
As a Certified Nurse Psychotherapist (CNP) and a Registered Psychotherapist (RP), I counsel and support individuals experiencing a range of mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, trauma, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and attention deficit disorders. I also provide counselling and support to individuals who are seeking help for problems with substance use issues. Concepts in Mental Health and Resilience therapeutic approach combines psychodynamic theory, cognitive theory, client centred therapy, and holistic therapy to help our clients manage their problems and build mental health resilience.
(226) 270-5845 View (226) 270-5845
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9C
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 210-5106 View (289) 210-5106
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSc, MA
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9C
Accepting New Clients: In-Person & Phone/Video. We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
Accepting New Clients: In-Person & Phone/Video. We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(226) 702-8590 View (226) 702-8590
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8E
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 207-6240 View (289) 207-6240

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Strength Counselling Services, Counsellor in Hamilton, ON
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7N  (Online Only)
Currently, we provide online counseling services exclusively, featuring a talented team of counselors from diverse backgrounds who can tackle a wide range of mental health issues. Our primary goal is to nurture the holistic well-being of our clients, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects through exceptional counseling services. We cater to individuals, couples, and families, tailoring our approach for each unique client. In the event of client dissatisfaction with a therapist, we pledge to either find an appropriate replacement or suggest an unaffiliated alternative expert to ensure their needs are met.
Currently, we provide online counseling services exclusively, featuring a talented team of counselors from diverse backgrounds who can tackle a wide range of mental health issues. Our primary goal is to nurture the holistic well-being of our clients, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects through exceptional counseling services. We cater to individuals, couples, and families, tailoring our approach for each unique client. In the event of client dissatisfaction with a therapist, we pledge to either find an appropriate replacement or suggest an unaffiliated alternative expert to ensure their needs are met.
(289) 806-1148 View (289) 806-1148

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Anthony Hutchinson & Associates, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Dr. Anthony Hutchinson & Associates
Registered Social Worker, BSc, (Psych), BSW, MSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7L
Confidential, Compassionate Health Care. Specialized effective assessment, diagnostics & treatment of many mental health issues: anxiety; depression; stress; trauma/PTSD; brain injury/concussion; addictions. Outstanding support for Work, Employment, School, Family & Disability Issues for Individuals, Couples & Parents struggling with Child & Teenager conflict. Nationally recognized as being certified at Ontario Court of Justice levels in medical-legal, forensic/criminal law & family law cases. Expert in Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) & WSIB claims. Extended Health Care Benefits accepted. Primary clinical scope: Psychosocial Practice.
Confidential, Compassionate Health Care. Specialized effective assessment, diagnostics & treatment of many mental health issues: anxiety; depression; stress; trauma/PTSD; brain injury/concussion; addictions. Outstanding support for Work, Employment, School, Family & Disability Issues for Individuals, Couples & Parents struggling with Child & Teenager conflict. Nationally recognized as being certified at Ontario Court of Justice levels in medical-legal, forensic/criminal law & family law cases. Expert in Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) & WSIB claims. Extended Health Care Benefits accepted. Primary clinical scope: Psychosocial Practice.
(844) 332-2500 View (844) 332-2500
Photo of Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cobourg, ON K9A  (Online Only)
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
(343) 307-4960 View (343) 307-4960
Photo of Latoya Taneisha Reid, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Latoya Taneisha Reid
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, Dip Ed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
Difficult days are inevitable on life’s journey. You may be having challenges in a relationship, struggling to cope with a past or recent trauma, be a victim of abuse, bullying or race based trauma, going through a divorce or separation, worried about your relationship with children or other family members, experiencing anxiety, self-doubt, depression, stress, grief or just going through a difficult period of your life. Whatever the challenge or struggle, you don’t have to suffer in silence. IT IS OK TO NOT BE OK!! Reassuringly, there is collaborative support available to get you through.
Difficult days are inevitable on life’s journey. You may be having challenges in a relationship, struggling to cope with a past or recent trauma, be a victim of abuse, bullying or race based trauma, going through a divorce or separation, worried about your relationship with children or other family members, experiencing anxiety, self-doubt, depression, stress, grief or just going through a difficult period of your life. Whatever the challenge or struggle, you don’t have to suffer in silence. IT IS OK TO NOT BE OK!! Reassuringly, there is collaborative support available to get you through.
(587) 207-5720 View (587) 207-5720
Photo of Jawhar Iman, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Jawhar Iman
Registered Psychotherapist, Mpsy, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M3B
I have primarily worked with the male population who appear to struggle with expressing their genuine emotions to their significant others. In a safe and secure therapeutic setting, my clients can find the comfort to express themselves authentically. I aim to assist them in moving towards self-acceptance, self-compassion, and developing strategies to enhance their connections with others. Additionally, we can address emotional management techniques, including anger management, during our sessions.
I have primarily worked with the male population who appear to struggle with expressing their genuine emotions to their significant others. In a safe and secure therapeutic setting, my clients can find the comfort to express themselves authentically. I aim to assist them in moving towards self-acceptance, self-compassion, and developing strategies to enhance their connections with others. Additionally, we can address emotional management techniques, including anger management, during our sessions.
(289) 512-2693 View (289) 512-2693
Photo of Tania Marie Da Silva (Behaviour Matters) in Hamilton, ON
Tania Marie Da Silva (Behaviour Matters)
HonsBA, CYC, CYW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6A
Tania DaSilva holds an Honours Bachelors of Arts and Science Degree majoring in Psychology and Sociology, certifications in Cognitive Behavioural, Solution-Focused and Narrative Therapy, from OISE, University of Toronto, an Honours Advanced Child and Youth Care Diploma from Humber College, specializing in counselling, interventions, treatment and therapeutic activities. She is the Clinical Director of Behaviour Matters, author of Push for Happy, creator of Mindful Masters SEL Program and an on-air mental health media expert, seen in CTV, Global, Forbes, Toronto Star etc.
Tania DaSilva holds an Honours Bachelors of Arts and Science Degree majoring in Psychology and Sociology, certifications in Cognitive Behavioural, Solution-Focused and Narrative Therapy, from OISE, University of Toronto, an Honours Advanced Child and Youth Care Diploma from Humber College, specializing in counselling, interventions, treatment and therapeutic activities. She is the Clinical Director of Behaviour Matters, author of Push for Happy, creator of Mindful Masters SEL Program and an on-air mental health media expert, seen in CTV, Global, Forbes, Toronto Star etc.
(855) 249-5362 View (855) 249-5362
Photo of Strength Counselling Services, Counsellor in Hamilton, ON
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2E  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(437) 747-8880 View (437) 747-8880
Photo of The Dot Canada, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
The Dot Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, MSW
Verified Verified
Saint Catharines, ON L2S  (Online Only)
If you're feeling disconnected, distracted, and detached from your life, it may be time to look at why. Why can't I connect, why am I not able to just "get over" my past, or why does it all feel so meaningless? Maybe there are other questions, like “what am I doing with my life” or “who do I want to be?”. It’s okay to take time that's just for you, to look at your life and see both the big picture and explore the often overlooked details. With the right support, you can feel more present, connected, and in control of your life.
If you're feeling disconnected, distracted, and detached from your life, it may be time to look at why. Why can't I connect, why am I not able to just "get over" my past, or why does it all feel so meaningless? Maybe there are other questions, like “what am I doing with my life” or “who do I want to be?”. It’s okay to take time that's just for you, to look at your life and see both the big picture and explore the often overlooked details. With the right support, you can feel more present, connected, and in control of your life.
(249) 488-1297 View (249) 488-1297
Photo of Abigail Robinson, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Abigail Robinson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
Feeling overwhelmed/trapped/or having racing thoughts while not knowing what to do/who turn to can be a very lonely & painful experience. The life we want for ourselves may feel distant due to stress, fear, sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, & feelings of unworthiness, shame, & guilt. I would love to walk alongside you during this time as you learn new ways of coping, get to know yourself on a deeper level, & heal/transform so that you may relate to yourself/others effectively & express yourself in a healthy way. I provide a safe, accepting, warm, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel empowered to be you.
Feeling overwhelmed/trapped/or having racing thoughts while not knowing what to do/who turn to can be a very lonely & painful experience. The life we want for ourselves may feel distant due to stress, fear, sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, & feelings of unworthiness, shame, & guilt. I would love to walk alongside you during this time as you learn new ways of coping, get to know yourself on a deeper level, & heal/transform so that you may relate to yourself/others effectively & express yourself in a healthy way. I provide a safe, accepting, warm, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel empowered to be you.
(289) 274-0739 View (289) 274-0739
Photo of Isayah Alexander Javier Alman, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Isayah Alexander Javier Alman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5W  (Online Only)
I support youth and adults who struggle with self-doubt, lack of motivation, and feeling “stuck”. I am a Registered Social Worker with experience in crisis response, addictions counseling, child and youth work, and academic research. My approach integrates psychology and social work. I help people examine how life events and their living environment influences overall mental well-being. I believe that you are the expert of your lived experience, and I work with you to analyze your life story, reveal patterns of difficulty, and uncover hidden strengths.
I support youth and adults who struggle with self-doubt, lack of motivation, and feeling “stuck”. I am a Registered Social Worker with experience in crisis response, addictions counseling, child and youth work, and academic research. My approach integrates psychology and social work. I help people examine how life events and their living environment influences overall mental well-being. I believe that you are the expert of your lived experience, and I work with you to analyze your life story, reveal patterns of difficulty, and uncover hidden strengths.
(289) 206-6739 View (289) 206-6739
Photo of André Turcotte, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
André Turcotte
Registered Psychotherapist, CRPO, MA, RP, LC
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4Y
Change and solutions are possible! Help is available. Psychotherapy addresses a variety of issues and I can help you with everything from anxiety to depression to life and relationship issues. Often the hardest part is simply making the decision to begin. I offer a unique approach; in addition to traditional office visits, I also offer online sessions. Many people enjoy the added benefits of 'meeting' online; reduced travel time to and from their appointments, greater scheduling flexibility and being able to continue whether they are feeling under the weather or away on vacation.
Change and solutions are possible! Help is available. Psychotherapy addresses a variety of issues and I can help you with everything from anxiety to depression to life and relationship issues. Often the hardest part is simply making the decision to begin. I offer a unique approach; in addition to traditional office visits, I also offer online sessions. Many people enjoy the added benefits of 'meeting' online; reduced travel time to and from their appointments, greater scheduling flexibility and being able to continue whether they are feeling under the weather or away on vacation.
(844) 841-4247 View (844) 841-4247
Photo of Mary Kwan, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Mary Kwan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MS
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5C
Having practiced as a Clinical Psychologist overseas for 20 years, I am very familiar with all kinds of conditions. If you are having relationship with your spouse or others, I can help. You might be stressed out trying to parent your children, whatever age they maybe and esp for offsprings who have ADHD, Autism or learning problems, I love to help. Or you maybe depressed, anxious, wanting to work out your inner issues so that you can be a happy person, I am here to give you a hand. Or you might have a lot of pain/stress in your life, with various kinds of addictions not knowing where to do, I am here to help you find your way out.
Having practiced as a Clinical Psychologist overseas for 20 years, I am very familiar with all kinds of conditions. If you are having relationship with your spouse or others, I can help. You might be stressed out trying to parent your children, whatever age they maybe and esp for offsprings who have ADHD, Autism or learning problems, I love to help. Or you maybe depressed, anxious, wanting to work out your inner issues so that you can be a happy person, I am here to give you a hand. Or you might have a lot of pain/stress in your life, with various kinds of addictions not knowing where to do, I am here to help you find your way out.
(437) 747-8155 View (437) 747-8155
Photo of Aziz Iman, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Aziz Iman
Registered Psychotherapist, MPsy, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M3B
Anxiety is a mode of being, our call for growth. We find ourselves in a world and relate to our surroundings through desire and care. Within the frame of our cultural conditioning, we tend to invest in people and things that foster attachments. Out of these attachments and the desire to pursue the sort of happiness that we are conditioned to thrive for emerges a sense of dependency that often deprives us of the opportunity to actualize our true potentials.
Anxiety is a mode of being, our call for growth. We find ourselves in a world and relate to our surroundings through desire and care. Within the frame of our cultural conditioning, we tend to invest in people and things that foster attachments. Out of these attachments and the desire to pursue the sort of happiness that we are conditioned to thrive for emerges a sense of dependency that often deprives us of the opportunity to actualize our true potentials.
(289) 274-9479 View (289) 274-9479
Photo of GTA Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
GTA Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
Hello, and Welcome to our page! Our practice specializes in Addiction, Anxiety, Stabilizing emotions, Depression, Sexual and Physical Abuse, Family/Relationships problems, and self-esteem. Not only can we assist you by giving you tools that you can use to cope with your day-to-day mental health struggles, but we can help you find the root of the cause. We are a team of Psychotherapists and Social Workers combined we have over 25+years of experience working with clients that have challenges with their past trauma that comes up and their overall mental health that is affecting their quality of life.
Hello, and Welcome to our page! Our practice specializes in Addiction, Anxiety, Stabilizing emotions, Depression, Sexual and Physical Abuse, Family/Relationships problems, and self-esteem. Not only can we assist you by giving you tools that you can use to cope with your day-to-day mental health struggles, but we can help you find the root of the cause. We are a team of Psychotherapists and Social Workers combined we have over 25+years of experience working with clients that have challenges with their past trauma that comes up and their overall mental health that is affecting their quality of life.
(289) 217-3608 View (289) 217-3608
Photo of Ryan Wills, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Ryan Wills
Registered Social Worker, RSSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2N
Born and raised in Niagara, Ryan holds a strong foundation within his community. Having attended Niagara College for Social Service Worker, Ryan has spent his career committed to working with people. Ryan has spent 25+ years working with the Social Services sector and focusing specifically on Mental Health and Addictions. Supporting individuals in reaching their goals, identifying barriers to change and empowering people to take charge of what they want, Ryan can support you throughout your journey. Promoting individual wellness, in addition to recognizing gaps in the system, Ryan can provide guidance and navigation from a non
Born and raised in Niagara, Ryan holds a strong foundation within his community. Having attended Niagara College for Social Service Worker, Ryan has spent his career committed to working with people. Ryan has spent 25+ years working with the Social Services sector and focusing specifically on Mental Health and Addictions. Supporting individuals in reaching their goals, identifying barriers to change and empowering people to take charge of what they want, Ryan can support you throughout your journey. Promoting individual wellness, in addition to recognizing gaps in the system, Ryan can provide guidance and navigation from a non
(905) 685-5458 View (905) 685-5458

See more therapy options for Hamilton


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.