What is ABA
Behavior Analysis is an evidence-based methodology derived from the science of behaviorism. It looks at the “why” behind behaviors and offers principles to be applied for teaching socially important behaviors and replacing detrimental and/or dangerous behaviors. Applied Behavior Analysis based interventions must include the following seven dimensions:
In practice, it is common for a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) to complete a Functional Assessment and develop a behavior plan that Behavior Technicians implement under consistent supervision of the BCBA or Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). Behavior Technicians are required to have specific education, experience, and/or training hours. Additionally, the BCBA should be reviewing the data to ensure that the client is receiving accurate programming and updates.
What to Expect
An initial assessment will be conducted with you and your child by a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). The results from this assessment will then be used to develop an individualized ABA program for your child. This program will be implemented in a 1:1 ratio by a behavior technician trained in the principles and techniques of ABA. Depending on your child’s specific needs, a combination of the following skills will be taught during these sessions:
Attending skills – Communication skills – Imitation Skills – Play/Leisure Skills – Advocacy/Self-Help Skills – Academic skills – Social Skills – Functionally Equivalent Replacement Behaviors – Adaptive Living Skills – Pre-Vocational Skills
If your child engages in any maladaptive behaviors, a functional assessment will be utilized to determine the behaviors’ functions. A behavior plan will then be developed and implemented with him or her to decrease the behaviors and to teach your child appropriate replacement behaviors.
All of Step-In’s services are overseen by BCBAs at the Center through data analysis and direct observation to ensure your child is progressing and that his or her program is being implemented correctly and consistently. All of the behavior technicians employed by Step-In also participate in monthly training, skill development, and individualized client team meetings. Step-In center-based services exceed the standard BCBA supervision. Our BCBAs are easily accessible to clients, family members, and behavior technicians.
In order to ensure your child generalizes the skills being learned during the 1:1 session, your BCBA may recommend provision of some services in the community or home setting. Providers at Step-In understand the importance of intensive intervention for individuals diagnosed with Autism or other developmental delays. We have seen firsthand the impact that Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) creates in the lives of the individual, siblings, and family members. This is why we pride ourselves on quality ABA services.
Wellness Policy
If your child or someone else in your home is ill, please remember to cancel your appointment as soon as possible. Individuals who have had a fever or have vomited within the past 24 hours should not be seen for home visits or come to the center. We will try our best to be sure that our Behavioral Technicians and other staff members do not visit your home or come to work if they are running a fever or have vomited within the past 24 hours.
Please use the following guidelines and keep your child at home if any of these symptoms are present within the past 24 hours:
If a doctor diagnoses your child with a communicable disease, please notify the center so we may alert other families if necessary.
Due to the medical fragility of many of our clients, we require that all vaccinations for all clients be up to date. Those whose vaccinations are not current must produce a doctor’s order verifying a medical reason exempting the child from said vaccination.
Step-In offers virtual supports. Do you have a parenting question or concern? We can help: for children with or without disabilities, we are here to support your child’s behavioral needs.
