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Top 4 Qualities to Look For in an ABA Center
Autism Learning Collaborative
You are at the doctor’s office when they give you the news that your child has a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
ASD is a complex developmental disorder that affects 1 in every 59 births in America. The recommendation given is intensive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy and the earlier you start the better. Now what? How do you know what qualities to look for in a top ABA provider?
The Autism Learning Collaborative is here to help. Not all ABA centers are created equal, but the right combination of traits will help you determine which ABA therapy center would be the best fit for your child.
Below are the top 4 qualities to look for when searching for your child’s ABA therapy center...
1. Credentials:
You will quickly learn that credentials are important when it comes to ABA centers. You want to make sure that a Board Certified Behavior Analysis (BCBA) will be managing your child’s case every step of the way. This certification is given after demonstrating a mastery of analyzing and interacting with the behavior patterns present in children with ASD, among other neurodivergent disorders.
- A major red flag is an ABA therapy center that has non-BCBAs managing cases. Also, look out for companies that list “BCBA Candidate” as this is not a recognized qualification.
- You will also want to make sure your BCBA is a Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA). Qualifications and requirements vary by state. For example, in Texas, all BCBA’s also need to be licensed.
- It is also important to ask how many cases your child’s BCBA is managing. If they are managing 20+ cases, that is a red flag that they may not have enough proper clinical time to spend on each case. The BACB Guidelines note that oversight of 6-12 clients for comprehensive treatment is the average. The best ABA centers will work to make sure that their BCBA’s are not overloaded with cases, allowing these behavior analysts to devote the proper amount of time required to assist every child under their care.
2. Quality Programming:
Below are a few qualifications to look for in great programming from potential ABA centers. Every ABA center works differently, but be sure to look for these traits in particular.
- Observable data to back up every behavior and every program being ran
- Individualized plans; there should not be a “cookie-cutter” approach that is used for every child.
- Using only evidence-based practices with research showing positive results
- Ongoing direct assessment, analysis and adjustments to the treatment plan
- Plans based on reinforcement rather than punishment (only used as a last result)
- Replacement behaviors for behaviors that are being decreased
- Plans that address generalization and maintenance
3. Caregiver Training:
Your child’s ABA center’s programming should have a major focus on caregiver training. The end goal of most ABA plans is to have the child in the least restrictive environment possible. In order for that to happen, caregiver training needs to be an integral part of the process so that you can eventually implement procedures without the assistance of a BCBA.
- Caregiver training should include your BCBA developing ‘Caregiver Goals’ and data to be taken on your implementation of these goals. Training of caregivers usually involves a systematic, individualized curriculum on the basis of ABA principles.
- Caregiver Training should happen at least monthly, although more frequent meetings (weekly) are recommended.
4. Trust your instinct:
Just as when touring daycare facilities or schools, if something seems off then ask questions and follow up on those instincts. A quality ABA provider should make both you and your child feel comfortable, welcomed and at home. ABA therapy should be a source of stress relief for you and your family and not another added burden.
Tyler Moore
Founder, ASD Therapy Solutions
With 20+ years in behavioral healthcare and a child of his own on the Autism Spectrum, Tyler is deeply committed to helping steer Apara Autism Center through innovation, collaboration, and clinical excellence to improve the life of families impacted like his.
Being a parent of a neurodiverse child has its own set of challenges. Challenges that can be so unique that a practitioner may have to get creative with evidenced-based interventions. Being a parent of a neurodiverse child AND a practitioner is a completely different story. Especially 10-15 years ago. Let’s talk about this. Many years ago, I knew my then 2-year-old daughter was different. Whenever anyone asked me how she was different, I could never put my thoughts adequately into words. “She is just different.” The general response would be, “Well, she just NEEDS discipline. Spank her, put her in time out.” I had so many conflicting feelings about this. My instincts were screaming “THIS IS NOT RIGHT!” My brain was at battle with myself daily. I fought negative thoughts and comments from family telling me I was not a good mother or parent, and my child was unruly. At 2 years old, my daughter was engaging in screaming, kicking, biting, hair pulling, crying, scratching, punching and slapping behaviors during transitions from the home to the community. She did not prefer ANY change to routine, did not like various smells, lighting, and sounds. She struggled with social and play skills with peers and only wanted one person, ME, her “momma”. Getting the Diagnosis: Fast forward through years of struggles, heartache, trauma and being ostracized (not only myself but my child by family and peers), she got a diagnosis! After visiting numerous physicians (so many I lost count) and countless misdiagnoses, she was FINALLY diagnosed at the age of 10 years old with Asperger’s Syndrome. The uphill battle began with family, friends and her school district. During this entire time, I continued to hear what a terrible mother I was and witnessed my child being excluded from school functions by her peers and being bullied daily. Helping as a Parent: I accessed any resource I could to help her. There was not much to choose from. Most of the resources were for children with level 3 autism spectrum disorders or significant behavioral issues such as drug or alcohol dependency. Nothing, absolutely nothing, for a high functioning child with sensory and social skill needs. At that time, the only true resource we had available was an intensive parent training program and ABA services for my daughter. During this time, I saw her blossoming. It gave me hope. It inspired me to get into this field I so adore today. I say all of this NOT to discourage parents from seeking help. I share my story to reflect on how much this field has changed in 10+ years. Today, the resources are plentiful. Private and public ABA resources from schools to individual companies and government funded programs. ABA practices focusing on assent-based, trauma-informed, evidence-based interventions. Absolutely incredible the amount of assistance to help our children of all ages. Trust your Gut! As I reflect on these changes, I can’t help but wonder how all of these resources would have impacted my daughter and my other children like her not so long ago. My momma heart swells with pride thinking of how much she has overcome to get where she is today. For all the parents out there who may be listening to the “noise” of others, DON’T. Follow your instincts, seek the resources, advocate for your child. You got this! Lori Vitello, MA, BCBA, LBA Autism Learning Collaborative St. Louis In-Home Branch Assistant Clinical Director www.autismlearningcollaborative.com
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Receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can evoke a complex tapestry of emotions, from confusion and concern to love and determination. As parents embark on this journey together, supporting each other becomes as crucial as supporting their child. This blog explores the emotional dynamics within families navigating an autism diagnosis, offering practical advice to foster resilience, communication, and a balanced approach to caregiving. Understanding the Emotional Impact The initial phase following a diagnosis can be overwhelming. Acknowledging your feelings and giving yourself permission to experience a wide range of emotions is a crucial first step. It's important to remember that feelings of grief, frustration, and even relief are normal as parents come to terms with their new reality. Communication is Key Open and honest communication between parents is foundational. Regular check-ins where each person can express their feelings, fears, and hopes without judgment can strengthen your partnership. Consider establishing a weekly 'heart-to-heart' session where you can discuss not just the challenges but also the victories, no matter how small. Supporting Each Other Supporting each other doesn't always mean having all the answers. Sometimes, it's about listening or simply being there. Develop a code word or signal for those moments when you're feeling overwhelmed and need a break or extra support. This can help maintain a supportive environment even in the midst of stress. Finding Balance Finding balance between caregiving, personal well-being, and your relationship can seem like a daunting task. It's essential to carve out time for self-care and each other, apart from your roles as parents. Engaging in individual hobbies or activities and scheduling regular date nights or activities as a couple can help maintain a strong bond. Practical Strategies for Caregiving Educate Yourselves Together: Learning about autism as a team can help align your understanding and approach to care. Websites like Autism Speaks (www.autismspeaks.org) offer comprehensive resources for families. Create a Support Network: Connecting with other families navigating similar experiences can provide emotional support and practical advice. Online forums and local support groups can be valuable resources. The Autism Society (www.autism-society.org) is a good starting point for finding community connections. Seek Professional Guidance: Sometimes, professional support is necessary to navigate the complexities of autism. Family therapy or counseling can provide strategies to strengthen your relationship and family dynamics. Apara Autism offers free consultations, you can schedule yours here. Focus on Strengths: Every child with autism has a unique set of strengths and abilities. Celebrate these strengths and incorporate them into daily activities and learning opportunities. Establish Routines: Children with autism often thrive on routine. Working together to establish and maintain consistent daily routines can benefit your child and reduce family stress. In Conclusion Navigating the emotional landscapes of autism requires patience, understanding, and teamwork. The journey is long, but together, you can navigate the challenges and celebrate the joys that come with raising a child with autism. By supporting each other, maintaining open communication, and taking care of your own well-being, you can build a strong foundation for your family and your child.
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As the calendar turns to January, we embrace the spirit of new beginnings. This is a time for reflection, planning, and setting goals, not just for ourselves but also for the special children in our lives undergoing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. The new year brings a unique opportunity for therapists, parents, and children to collaboratively set realistic and meaningful goals in ABA therapy. Understanding the Importance of Goal-Setting in ABA Therapy ABA therapy is centered around the individual needs of each child with autism. Goal-setting in this context is not just about achieving specific skills or behaviors; it’s about creating pathways for children to realize their potential and improve their quality of life. Well-defined goals provide direction for therapy sessions and a framework for measuring progress. Collaborative Goal-Setting: A Team Effort One of the strengths of ABA therapy is its collaborative nature. Therapists, parents, and sometimes, depending on their age and ability, the children themselves, should be involved in the goal-setting process. This collaboration ensures that goals are not only tailored to the child’s needs but are also aligned with family values and real-life situations. Strategies for Identifying Goals Assessing the Child’s Current Abilities: Start by understanding the child’s strengths and areas where they need support. This can involve direct assessment by the therapist and input from parents and educators. Setting SMART Goals: Goals should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For instance, improving two-way communication skills over three months is a SMART goal. Prioritizing Goals: Not all goals are created equal. Some skills might be foundational and need to be achieved before others. Prioritize goals based on their impact on the child’s daily life and overall development. Measuring Progress Regular assessments and observations are crucial in tracking progress. Celebrating milestones, no matter how small, is important. Progress in ABA therapy is not always linear, and every small step forward is a victory. Tips for Parents Be Consistent: Try to reinforce the goals set in therapy at home. Consistency is key in ABA therapy. Stay Informed and Involved: Regular communication with the therapist can provide insights into how best to support your child’s goals at home. Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s achievements, however small they may seem. This encourages them and shows them the value of their efforts. Conclusion The new year is a time for new goals and fresh starts. In ABA therapy, setting achievable goals is essential for the continued progress of children with autism. By working together, therapists and parents can create a supportive and effective environment for these children to thrive in 2023 and beyond. Let’s use this opportunity to reflect on past achievements and chart a course for a year filled with growth and learning.