Applied Behavior Analysis

What is ABA?

Cutting Edge Pediatric and Adult Therapy believes in the comprehensive treatment of the “whole” person. With developmental and learning differences, this may consist of many collaborative units working together to support personal growth at its maximum potential. One of those collaborative units is ABA. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a science evidence-based practice, using goal-driven data to reduce harmful or distracting behaviors, while increasing desired behaviors that promote learning and independence geared towards individuals on the Autism Spectrum. Using assessments and observations, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) creates a client-specific treatment plan which is then implemented by a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) who works under the supervision of the BCBA. These goals and objectives target the necessary skill sets to remediate the patient’s diagnosis of autism by addressing deficits in communication, social, and maladaptive behavior reduction. ABA Therapy includes weekly parent training services, a vital aspect where we equip parents and caregivers with the skills needed to facilitate the transition of skills to home. During parent training a BCBA will meet with the parent/caregiver to discuss the client’s progress, how to utilize behavioral techniques, and address any concerns.

What makes us different?

• Spencer’s Java Jam Coffee Shop
• Grocery Store
• Adaptive Training Restroom
• Sensory & Calming Room

ABA at CEPT

Collaboration of Care Model (CCM)

What sets us apart from other ABA providers is our collaboration of care model. Most clinics do not have all four disciplines in house. Typically, a BCBA at an ABA clinic must contact a client’s SLP at their school or a different clinic. At CEPT we can easily access the client’s OT/PT/ST therapist across the building. This allows us to be consistent in our treatment across all disciplines. Another advantage to this is we host CCM (Collaboration of Care) Meetings with the client’s current clinicians and the parents. Here we discuss what we are all working on together as a team plus how that can be carried on at home. 

NET (Naturalistic Environment Teaching)

NET, or Natural Environment Teaching, is a method of providing ABA therapy in a ‘natural environment’ or out in a ‘real-life’ setting, as opposed to a more formal, clinical setting such as DTT (Discrete Trial Training). An ABA therapist might use NET to keep the child engaged during therapy, as it often incorporates the child’s high interest areas. While NET is not necessarily structured as play, using the child’s interests in ABA therapy can help them to build rapport. One of the key principles of NET is using the motivation of the child (by incorporating interest areas) to learn new socially significant skills. At CEPT, the majority of client programs utilize the NET method, compared to other clinics who may use only DTT or a mix of the two. 

Parent Training 

In applied behavior analysis services, professional ABA providers may not only be working one on one with a client or supervising others who do so. They may also be providing training and consultation to caregivers of those clients. Specifically, this is often referred to as parent training or caregiver training typically funded by insurance. ABA parent training is done by A BCBA and is an important piece of any treatment plan when working with children and adolescents. As caregivers, parents are responsible for helping their child learn and develop by guiding them and teaching them skills and behaviors that will help them in everyday life. This is why parent training at CEPT is a weekly requirement.

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