Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a research based, scientific method that began with the work of B.F. Skinner. The science measures observable behavior. It looks at what occurs before a behavior (antecedent) and what happens after a behavior (consequence). In addition, the methods of ABA are applied by breaking down skills into simple steps and teaching each step in succession. Skills are taught with the use of prompting to assist learning. A correct response is followed by positive reinforcement which increases the likelihood that a behavior or response will occur more often in the future. West Behavioral uses Faultless Learning in order to decrease frustration, and make teaching and learning a fun activity.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the study of the functional relationship between one’s behaviors and their environment. Data is collected on the stimuli that elicits, increases, decreases, or maintains the child’s behavior. The data is analyzed and a treatment plan or an individualized ABA program is implemented. As the child’s treatment progresses, data is collected and analyzed again to determine treatment effectiveness. The goal of a behavior analyst is to utilize behavioral contingencies to help the child learn more functional skills that can replace undesirable behaviors and improve quality of life. West Behavioral, LLC seeks to produce significant results enabling the child to adapt to their environment, thus preparing them for a brighter future.
ABA based intervention is validated for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD and other developmental disabilities. It is a set of principles and guidelines upon which educational programs are based and should not be used synonymously with a specific program. An ABA program targets specific developmental areas such as:
- Attending skills
- Fine and gross motor skills
- Functional play skills
- Social skills
- Problem behavior
- Imitative skills
- Functional language skills
- Functional living/self-help skills
- Toileting skills
In January 2009, House Act 648 went into effect mandating insurance coverage for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders for any health insurance and Office of Group Benefits policy that is issued to employers of more than 50 people.
The Louisiana Autism Insurance Reform covers any health or accident insurance policy that is issued to employers with more than 50 employees. It is important to check with your Human Resources Department or Benefits Manager to determine if your plan is covered under the mandate. If they indicate they do not you may want to check with the Department of Insurance to be sure.
Some exceptions for the mandate include self funded policies, employer funded policies when the employer has less than 50 employees or if you work for a company with a headquarters not in Louisiana.
Will my insurance cover ABA?
Why should parents receive training?
What is Applied Behavior Analysis?
Parents are integral to the success of each child. West Behavioral LLC strives to include parents in all aspects of therapy from goal and objective development to treatment strategies and behavior management skills. Consistency of programming across settings is our ultimate aim. The West Behavioral supervisor is available to train parents in the areas of behavior management and the application of discrete trial training in the hopes that parents will also become part of the child’s therapy team.
How Does ABA Work?
ABA provides learners with age appropriate learning objectives. One-on-one therapy is initially administered in the center or home then generalized to other settings. Many times the treatment is intensive (20 to 40 hours of therapy per week depending on medical necessity) and comprehensive (works on a variety of skill domains). Focused interventions (only working on a small number of skills) are typically less than 20 hours per week. West Behavioral LLC cannot predetermine the number of hours that your child may require from an ABA program. After the initial assessment, the BCBA or BCaBA will be able to make the recommendation as to how many hours are appropriate to meet the specific needs of the child.
Treatment programs can require a long-term commitment in some cases. ABA provides continual support to parents throughout the time the child works with West Behavioral as well as supports the child and family during any transitions out of treatment.