ABA Therapy
The gold standard in treatment
What Is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?
If you’ve explored treatment options for your child with autism, you’ve likely come across the acronym “ABA.”
ABA stands for applied behavior analysis and is considered the gold standard for autism treatment. Medical, psychological, and behavioral health communities recognize it as the most effective treatment, and it’s supported by decades of research. Coverage for ABA treatment is mandated in the United States, and treatment can take place in your child’s home, community, school — or in Learning Centers designed specifically for ABA therapy and related services.
Despite what many people think, ABA isn’t one specific type of treatment. It’s an approach that uses a variety of interventions to teach the skills needed for children to succeed in school and life.
What We Mean by Contemporary ABA
At AST, we refer to our approach as contemporary ABA to distinguish our therapy from the older, more structured form of treatment.
What do we mean by contemporary? We mean this type of treatment builds on — yet differs extensively from — the ABA of the 1970s and ’80s. Originally, ABA as a treatment for autism focused on reinforcing specific behaviors. However, ABA has evolved since that time and is presently more child-centered, age-appropriate, and family-focused.
Refined through decades of clinical insights and experience, our contemporary ABA:
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Uses data and current treatment literature to inform and guide practices and treatment |
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Makes learning playful, naturalistic, age-appropriate, and fun |
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Integrates the unique needs, interests, culture, and values of your child and family |
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Considers you and other caregivers a core partner in your child’s treatment |
Given the evolving nature of science, it’s important to find a partner who stays updated on and engaged with the research. Look for a provider that is committed to clinical excellence and is involved with ABA-related conferences and trainings. Most importantly, realize that with the right team in place, your child can find success—and lead a happy, fulfilling life.
Everything You Need, Close to Home
Life can be stressful — we hear you — and every child with autism is different. That’s why we offer services in multiple places, from our Learning Centers to your home and community and your child’s school. Your child may benefit from treatment in one place more than another. To determine the right fit, we start by assessing your child.
At AST, we know life with autism can differ from what you might have expected. We’re here to support you with daily strategies you can implement in your child’s routine—setting them up for success. With the right support, your child will flourish and thrive. We can help you find ways to make that happen.
Find Out More About Our:
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Autism Learning Centers We give your child one-on-one support in individual and group settings, in a play-based, learning-rich environment. |
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In-Home ABA Therapy |
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Social Skills Programs Your child will work on developing social relationships, participating in small group-activities, and following group instructions in a social setting. |
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ABA Therapy in School We provide behavioral support to individual students with autism, teachers, and schools. Through LEARN Academy, we also offer customized educational solutions for kids and teens with special needs. |
