Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy is a unique treatment used to help people with various conditions, from addiction and anxiety to dementia. It’s most notably considered one of the most effective types of therapy for children with Autism. If you have a child with Autism spectrum disorder and are interested in pursuing this treatment, settle your concerns with the answers below.

What You Should Know About ABA Therapy

What is the purpose of ABA therapy?

For children with Autism, ABA therapy can help improve focus and memory and strengthen communication skills, including speaking and gesturing. In this way, it improves many aspects of life, from social interactions to academic learning. If your child is dealing with behavioral issues, such as outbursts or physical aggression, ABA therapy can also help them overcome these obstacles.

How does it work?

ABA therapy uses positive reinforcement to encourage behavior that's conducive to the social or academic environment while mitigating behavior that negatively impacts the child's experience. The therapist will work closely with the child to identify instances of positive behavior. When they occur, they'll reward the child with something they respond to, such as time outside, a book, a TV show, or words of encouragement. When negative behavior is exhibited, there's no negative reinforcement—just the absence of a positive one.

How often does my child need ABA therapy?

Depending on your child's age and where they are on the Autism spectrum, they may have different therapy schedules. For example, some children benefit from frequent practice, such as 40 hours a week. As they start to learn through positive reinforcement, they may need only 10 to 20 hours a week. Typically, this therapy continues for around three years, but it may be extended into adulthood.

Can ABA therapy help parents?

As the therapist learns more about how your child thinks and acts, they can identify patterns and triggers that you may have overlooked. In addition to revealing this information to you, they can also provide tools and techniques that'll allow you to continue practicing positive reinforcement at home. By helping you determine what to say and which rewards to offer, the professional's advice will let you reinforce goal behaviors around the clock.

If your child has Autism and has yet to work with an ABA therapy specialist, reach out to Compass Innovative Behavior Strategies in Concord, NH. Their board-certified behavior analysts will work closely with your child to instill lifelong skills that'll serve them at home, school, or in the workplace. As one of the largest in-network ABA therapy providers in the state, you can count on their team to offer affordable, effective treatment. To learn more about their therapy offerings, visit them online. You can also set up an appointment today by calling (603) 488-5008.