FAQ's
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based method used to improve or change specific behaviors. ABA therapy teaches children by breaking down complex tasks into small and discrete instructional steps. These small steps build on each other toward mastering a complex goal such as functional communication. ABA therapists use praise positive reinforcement to build on the child’s progress as they master these small steps.
The ABA methodology is considered the “gold standard” of treatment for children affected by ASD. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics: “The effectiveness of ABA-based intervention in ASDs has been well documented through 5 decades of research by using single-subject methodology and in controlled studies of comprehensive early intensive behavioral intervention programs in university and community settings. Children who receive early intensive behavioral treatment have been shown to make substantial, sustained gains in IQ, language, academic performance, and adaptive behavior as well as some measures of social behavior, and their outcomes have been significantly better than those of children in control groups.”
BCBA stands for Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Our BCBAs studied behavioral psychology and have a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis or a related field of study (education, special education, psychology). They also have spent 1500+ hours as a therapist under qualified supervision. The certification exam is no cakewalk and has only a 50% pass rate. Be assured that our BCBAs are professionals you can trust with your child’s treatment.
A BCBA oversees the treatment program of your child. They conduct assessments and use the results to create a individualized therapy plan. They also assess results from sessions and modify treatment plans to meet client goals and specific needs.
ABA is a structured teaching method. However, our critical focus is to systematically teach children how to generalize skills across multiple stimuli (objects, people, places, situations). "Generalization means the child will be able to respond regardless of who they are talking to or what situation they are put in.
Our Certified Behavior Technicians (CBT) work directly with the client and implement 1:1 therapy. CBT's put in place the behavior plans developed by the BCBA. They collect critical data and develop a quality relationship with the client and the family.
- A few of the CBT’s specific responsibilities include:
- Implementing measurement procedures
- Carrying out therapy plans as written and trained on by the BCBA
- Communicating with the family and the supervising BCBA
Behavior is defined as actions that are observable. This means that we specifically work on ALL things that can be observed. This includes challenging behavior, communication, leisure and play, social skills, and functional living skills.
Our purpose is to help individuals with Autism reach their full potential, increase their independence, eliminate barriers, and target functional skills, thereby improving the quality of their lives. It is never our aim to "fix" or "cure" any of the children we serve. We strive to make each child feel included, appreciated, and celebrated for each of their unique abilities, personalities, and talents. In some cases, symptoms of Autism may become less in which that child may no longer meet the diagnostic criteria later in life, but our goal is to teach each child to live their most independent life.
ABA can make an impact on anyone's quality of life no matter their age or level of the severity oh his, her or their symptoms. Skipping Stones is able to provide services to any individual no matter their age including older children, teens, and adults. ABA is commonly used to manage the symptoms of Autism, however can also be used to manage symptoms of other conditions as well including, anxiety, dementia, substance abuse.
Autism coverage is now required in all 50 states although the exact coverage my vary. The majority of insurance plans across the US cover ABA therapy. Our billing and insurance specialist will run an in-depth quote of benefits to determine if and what your ABA coverage consist of prior to the start of services.