Family Resources
Understanding ABA
Navigating your child's care can feel overwhelming. I've put together these resources to help you understand what ABA is, how it works, and what to expect — so you can feel informed and confident every step of the way.
Learn the Basics
Key Topics for Families
What is ABA
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach to understanding and improving behavior. It uses evidence-based techniques to teach new skills, reduce challenging behaviors, and support meaningful participation in everyday life.
- ABA is grounded in decades of peer-reviewed research and is widely recognized as an effective treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, ABA is not exclusive to individuals on the spectrum. Its principles can be used to support skill development, communication, independence, behavior regulation, and meaningful participation across a variety of needs, ages, and settings.
- Sessions are individualized — no two programs look alike. Goals are based on your child's unique strengths, needs, and family priorities.
- ABA focuses on skills that matter in real life: communication, social interaction, daily living routines, and emotional regulation.
- Modern ABA is compassionate and child-led. I use assent-based practices that prioritize your child's comfort, dignity, and engagement.
The Role of Families
Families are the most powerful force in a child's development. I design every program with parents and caregivers as active partners — not bystanders.
- Parent training is built into every program so you can support your child's progress throughout the day.
- I provide regular updates, data reviews, and coaching sessions to keep you informed and confident.
- Skills learned in therapy are most meaningful when they generalize to home, school, and community.
- You know your child best. Your observations and feedback directly shape the treatment plan.
Understanding Behavior
All behavior serves a purpose. When children engage in challenging behaviors, they are communicating a need. ABA helps identify that need and teach more effective ways to express it.
- Behaviors like tantrums, aggression, or self-injury often communicate unmet needs.
- A Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) identifies the "why" behind a behavior before designing any intervention.
- Effective behavior support focuses on teaching replacement skills, not just reducing the behavior.
- Environmental changes and proactive strategies often prevent challenging behaviors before they occur.
Terminology
Common Terms Explained
Applied Behavior Analysis — a scientific approach to understanding and improving behavior through evidence-based techniques.
Board Certified Behavior Analyst — a licensed professional who designs and oversees ABA programs.
Functional Behavior Assessment — an evaluation that identifies the purpose or "function" of a challenging behavior.
Behavior Intervention Plan — a written plan that outlines strategies for addressing challenging behaviors and teaching replacement skills.
Individualized Education Program — a legal document outlining a child's special education goals and services within a school setting.
Discrete Trial Training — a structured teaching method that breaks skills into small steps and uses repetition and reinforcement.
Natural Environment Teaching — teaching skills within everyday routines and activities rather than in a structured setting.
A consequence that increases the likelihood of a behavior occurring again. Positive reinforcement adds something desirable; negative reinforcement removes something unpleasant.
The ability to use a learned skill across different settings, people, and situations — a key goal of effective ABA therapy.
Let's Talk About Your Child
Every family's situation is unique. I'm happy to answer your questions, explain what services might be a good fit, and help you take the next step — with no pressure and no obligation.