ABA Therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis)

What to expect

ABA Therapy is not a pre-set guide that is applied the same way to each consumer. Each individual is treated as such, since different people respond to the exact same instruction and stimuli differently.

Factors that play a role in determining a treatment plan include but are not limited to:

  • current skill set
  • needs
  • interests/preferences
  • family situation.

A well-designed ABA Therapy treatment plan will include:

  • Direction and planning by a trained and certified behavior professional.
  • Goal-setting based on the factors listed above.
  • Short and long term goals focused on maximizing independence.
  • Instruction plans that separate specific skills into manageable tasks that build toward larger and more complex tasks.
  • Objective measurement of progress
  • Ongoing adjustment by the behavioral therapist to adapt to the learner’s needs.
  • Frequent communication with the family to review progress, plan for upcoming needs, and discuss changes in the treatment plan.

The treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) is an intensive process that will involve the entire family and a team of supporters. The primary tool for treatment (also referred to as therapy) is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy. ABA Therapy is a series of tools and teaching methods with scientifically-backed results in improving communication, interaction and desired behaviors.

At ROI, we offer therapeutic services based on ABA principles that demonstrate a deep understanding of how our clients’ behavior (skills and actions) can be influenced, improved and enhanced through environmental stimulus. Executive Director Sharon Wilkes, BCBA, oversees our team of behavior therapists as they work with families to greatly reduce ASD symptoms and increase every affected child’s ability to grow and learn new skills.

Our goal at ROI is to shape and develop new behaviors, such as speaking and playing, while reducing undesirable behaviors, such as outbursts and tantrums, through positive reinforcement via ABA Therapy.

Early Intervention

The earlier an intervention program is instituted, the greater the likelihood for success. Many life skills are targeted and can be improved including:

  • communication
  • sociability
  • self-care
  • learning/school preparedness
  • motor skills
  • attention
  • reasoning
  • adaptability

Both structured and unstructured activities are utilized at ROI to replicate the variety of situations a child will encounter outside of therapy. Emphasis is placed on generalization and maintenance of skills. Sessions take place in the ROI Learning Center, which houses individual therapy rooms and a large play room. Behavior technicians implement personalized treatment plans, working one-on-one with clients to master their goals.

Parent and Family Support

Parents wanting to develop and implement in-home Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs learn how to use assessment tools, develop programs, and conduct discrete trial teaching sessions and natural environment training. Programs are designed to teach attention to task, independent living skills, functional academics, and functional communication skills. Parents will learn also learn how to prepare materials, how to collect data, and how to manage individual treatment plans. Trainings are arranged on an individual basis.