We understand the difficulties of contemplating ABA therapy for your child and we’re here to help! You might be like some parents who have many questions and we want to make sure that we can answer as many as we can before you make that first call to us. Or, you might not know what questions to ask and don’t necessarily have an idea of what ABA therapy even is.
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions by parents with children who are on the spectrum and hope that they might be of use to you!
What is ABA Therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the standard of care to improving the developmental issues associated with autism. ABA is a science, a way of thinking, and a holistic approach to problem solving and skill development. ABA therapy, when provided by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, is considered the single most effective way for individuals to overcome the challenges of an autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities and is likely able to improve the quality of life of your child and help them reach their full potential. Endorsed by the U.S. Surgeon General, ABA therapy focuses on human behavior and is able to increase desirable behavior and minimize unwanted behaviors.
How will ABA therapy help my child?
ABA therapy will address the developmental deficiencies identified during an initial assessment of your child’s functioning across dozens of areas. With children on the autism spectrum, this often includes areas of verbal communication, like the ability to converse with parents and peers, request items, and communicate emotions and needs. Nonverbal communication, like making gestures and understanding social cues, can also be developed.
Other important target areas of ABA include social skills, play skills, potty training, self-care skills (brushing teeth, washing hands, etc.), and day-to-day living skills (getting dressed, table manners, etc.).
Does ABA therapy work for Autism?
ABA therapy is the gold standard for a clinically validated and heavily researched approach to helping children with autism according to both the National Academy of Sciences and the National Autism Council reports.
When is the best time for my child to begin ABA Therapy?
Simply stated: the earlier, the better.
Plenty of clinical research has demonstrated that children who start ABA therapy as early as possible (~2 years old) make the most significant improvements in their areas of deficit. In fact, children who received early intensive ABA therapy progressed to the point of being virtually indistinguishable from their neurotypical peers.
Are your staff Board Certified Behavior Analysts?
Reinforcement Unlimited has both Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technician’s/RBT’s in Training. BCBAs are required to have a master’s or Doctoral degree and complete thousands of hours of supervision.What are your RBT/RBT’s in Training qualifications?
Our direct therapists are required to be completing their bachelor’s degree, to have completed their bachelor’s degree, or be pursuing a master’s degree. Hiring therapists fresh out of high school seems to be a norm in the ABA world, but we aim to have the highest standards in the industry.
Do you perform background checks on your BCBAs and RBT/RBT’s in Training?
Every staff person of Reinforcement Unlimited is required to complete and pass a variety of background checks, assessments, a multi-stage interview process, and reference checks.
What is the age range of children you serve?
Clinic Clients: 18 months to 7 years old
Is your therapy one-on-one with the children?
Therapy is one-on-one: one child, one therapist.
I have more questions and would like to talk with someone on your clinical staff. Who should I contact?
If you would like to speak to someone regarding services, check out our contact page. The best way to reach us is by phone or by filling out an email inquiry.