What is ABA therapy for autism? ABA stands for Applied Behavioral Analysis and is built on the theory that an autistic child’s behaviors can be developed and improved over time. ABA therapy is an umbrella approach that encompasses a broad spectrum of methods and applications, depending on each child’s condition. ABA therapy for autism provides comprehensive evidence-based ABA autism spectrum disorder therapy programs for your child to overcome autism spectrum disorder.
What is ABA Therapy for Autisms?
Applied behavioral analysis is highly effective in diagnosing and treating autism, particularly during the early stages of childhood growth. However, before undergoing ABA, a parent should speak with a therapist to determine if it is right for their child. What is ABA therapy for autism? Let’s take a closer look at this form of treatment for autism.
The purpose of ABA therapy is to help an autistic child function in society and behave in a more neurotypical manner. A treatment specialist diagnosis symptoms of the child, which may include:
- Repetitive motions
- Self-harm (head-banging)
- Hypertension
- Anxiety attacks or depression
- Aggressive behavior
- Inability to carry a conversation
Children who experience physical pain or mental anguish may have a difficult time communicating what they are going through. As a result, they become more frustrated and may act out in ways that are socially inappropriate. A therapist diagnosis the symptoms and works with the child to overcome as many challenges as possible by building upon the child’s strengths.
Components of ABA Therapy for Autism
ABA is not a one-size-fits-all model for treatment. ABA therapy services in the integrate an array of methods to address issues that a child is struggling with. Autism therapy programs include:
Discrete Trial Training (DTT)
Some tasks or activities can be difficult for a child with autism to learn. Through discrete trail training, the teacher breaks down the task into single steps, making it easier to for a child to complete the task. Therapists approach this type of treatment in different ways. For instance, some use intense repetition while others employ incidental teaching.
Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)
This is a type of behavioral therapy for children age 12 to 48 months. Through group play, parents and therapists help a child learn multiple skills within a single exercise or activity. ESDM can be used in almost any home, clinic, or school setting. It is effective for children who have a wide range of learning styles and abilities.
Incidental Training
While some skills are taught using rigid repetitive activities, others can be taught in real-world situations or natural environments. Incidental training focuses on teaching children certain skills outside of traditional therapy. Both teachers and parents take advantage of ‘teachable’ moments so that children can see the connection between the teaching and the application.
Pivotal Response Treatment
Pivotal social skills allow children to interact or function in an array of settings and situations. For instance, speaking quietly, playing nicely, or sitting still can help a child to interact with other children in different scenarios. Pivotal response treatment is based on a reward system that does not require perfect execution each time. The goal is to slowly instill these skills in a child over a period.
In-Home ABA Autism Treatment
In-home ABA therapy provides comprehensive evidence-based ABA autism disorder treatment in the comfort of your own home. In-home ABA therapy typically consists of 25 hours per week of in-home ABA autism disorder therapy.
The Benefits of ABA Therapy
Although there are some challenges associated with ABA therapy, this form of treatment has several benefits including:
- The methods have proven to be successful over time
- ABA helps children interact socially in a positive way
- Therapists can help children cope with challenges
- Parental involvement in therapy is crucial for success
- ABA allows parents/therapists to have higher expectations
Learn More About ABA Therapy Today
What is ABA therapy for autism? If you would like to learn more about in-home ABA therapy, then contact an autism spectrum disorder treatment center in your area. There are lots of learning opportunities that you can take advantage of for your child. 
