What You Should Know About ABA in General as well as FTO's POV

Applied Behavior Analysis is a research-based science that uses reinforcement-based strategies to teach skills that increase independence and the quality of life for many individuals. 

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Typically, insurance is most likely to cover ABA therapy for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, however, it has been proven to be effective for individuals with behavior disorders, Down Syndrome, Traumatic Brain Injury, Dementia, and much more. 

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ABA has grown a lot since it was first established, transitioning away from the "old fashioned" thinking and into a more reformed version of the original practice. So, when you do your research, keep this in mind! (And feel free to ask any BCBA you are considering any and all questions about anything you read online!)

 

Here at FTO, we highly prioritize teaching children that their communication has power- Yes, even their "No's" and the "I don't want to's". All children have the right to protest, and teaching them that their feelings and emotions matter and will be heard and validated are two of the greatest goals of ours. We also believe that when a child is dysregulated, our job is to meet them where they are at with compassion (Offering a hug goes a long way!). We follow the child's lead, always. We move at their pace to make sure they always feel safe, feel cared for, feel loved, and have fun! We also make significant time for collaboration with other professionals that are involved in each child's life in order to promote consistency. After all, we are only ABA therapists, SLPs are speech professionals, OTs are occupational therapy professionals, teachers are educational professionals... So, we need collaboration with all relevant professionals to make sure that we are consistent for the child's sake. We love working side-by-side with other therapists from other fields and learning from them, and we are so thankful to have many opportunities to do so.

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In order to find the ABA provider that you feel fits you and your child the best and aligns with your desires, it is important that you as a parent/guardian be as involved as possible in the treatment of your child by...

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1. Asking questions. Yes, even the hard questions.

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2. Asking to observe the therapy sessions. In light of the current pandemic, it is important to be aware that some facilities will not allow face-to-face observations. However, you can always ask to schedule a time to observe virtually. 

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3. Asking for frequent updates on the progress towards the goals and also making sure that you approve of the goals being targeted. 

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4. Participating in regularly scheduled parent-trainings or meetings with the BCBA over your child's treatment.

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5. Speaking up when you either love something or don't agree with something. Be open and honest with your BCBA. Although the BCBA is the professional in the field of ABA, you are the professional on your child. 

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