What Is ABA Therapy?
What Is Applied Behavior Analysis?
Applied Behavior Analysis
Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA for short, is a research-based approach to understanding how the environment shapes behavior and learning.
ABA therapy uses this principle to develop treatment programs that reinforce positive behaviors and decrease behaviors that interfere with learning. Therapists have been using the principles of ABA since the 1960s to help children with autism and developmental disorders.
How does ABA work in practice?
An essential principle of ABA therapy is designing each program specifically for each individual.
This means every part of the behavior plan is tailored to fit the individual needs of our clients.
Helping Children Achieve Their Full Potential
Within the behavior programs, ABA uses the principles of reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors while using tools such as reinforcing alternative behaviors to replace undesirable behaviors.
The best part of ABA therapy is that it can be fun too! Your child’s program will be designed to take advantage of the things your child enjoys and their natural routine.
Kincare Values
Decrease behaviors that interfere with learning and development (tantrums, repetitive motions, Pica, etc.)
Development of language and communication skills
Assist in the development of adaptive behaviors, such as toilet training or eating
Improve attention, focus, social skills, memory, and academics
Benefits of ABA Therapy
ABA offers families a research-proven option. Its foundations are rooted in demonstrated behavioral science principles, while its application relies on data collection that ensures the effectiveness of individual programs.
Autism Speaks states, “ABA is widely recognized as a safe and effective treatment for autism;” and “Behavior analysis is a scientifically validated approach to understanding behavior and how it is affected by the environment.”
Why Kincare?
Kincare provides one-on-one service for each client, as well as continuous parental support and training. We also synchronize our treatment programs with your child’s other providers, such as teachers and doctors.
In-home therapy also provides parents the option for increased opportunities to be involved throughout the therapy process.
FAQ About ABA
- Is it important to begin ABA early?
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While it is never too late for your child to begin ABA, the Association for Science in Autism Treatment (ASAT) found that “…when implemented intensively (more than 20 hours per week) and early in life (beginning prior to the age of 4 years), ABA may produce large gains in development and reductions in the need for special services.”
- Is ABA a cure for autism?
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There is currently no cure for autism. At Kincare, we value individuals and the neurodiversity of every child we serve. Kincare’s ABA-based treatment programs are not designed to hide autism. Instead, we aim to help children build foundational skills to enable them to become more independent and lead fulfilled lives.
- Does ABA teach children academic skills?
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ABA programs do not replace classroom learning. However, ABA does promote the development of skills essential for success in the classroom. Examples of school readiness skills included in a behavior plan include following instructions, toiletry, tolerating sitting in a chair, or awareness of personal space.
- Does insurance cover ABA therapy?
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While every insurance plan is different, in most cases, ABA treatment is covered by insurance. Kincare accepts most major commercial insurance plans as well as Kansas Medicaid!
- Can ABA therapy be used only for autism?
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No, ABA therapy can be used for a variety of applications! The principles of ABA can be applied in various ways, including post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and ADHD. However, most insurance companies usually require a formal autism diagnosis to cover the costs of an ABA program.
Is Kincare right for you and your family?
If you want to learn more about Applied Behavior Analysis or see if Kincare is a good fit for your family, try our virtual consultation tool.