Learn More About ABA

What Is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is based on the science of learning and behavior and uses a systematic approach to help your child develop and learn. The principles of ABA have applications in many areas, such as improving language and communication, social and play skills, and adaptive skills like dressing, feeding and toileting. ABA can also help children practice self-control, reducing aggressive behaviors such as tantrums.

Many strategies fall under the ABA umbrella, such as Natural Environment Teaching, Discrete Trial Training, Early Start Denver Model, and Pivotal Response Training. At Atlas, we focus on naturalistic, play-based ABA and individualize our approach based on your child's needs.

What Is the Difference Between Behavior Therapy and ABA Therapy?

Behavior therapy and ABA address behavioral issues but utilize different methodologies, applications and guiding principles. Behavior therapy is a broad category of techniques aimed at changing undesirable behaviors to treat psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorder. This type of therapy addresses the underlying emotional and environmental causes of behaviors.

ABA is a specific methodology within behavior therapy that improves socially significant behaviors commonly associated with the treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ABA therapy focuses on observed behavior and aims to increase positive behaviors, such as communication and social skills, and decrease harmful or disruptive behaviors to improve functional aspects of daily life.

Who Recommends ABA?

ABA is recommended and endorsed as an effective intervention for ASD by the U.S. Surgeon General, the National Institute of Mental Health, the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, the National Research Council, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and the American Academy of Neurology, among other national medical organizations and associations.

Is ABA Effective?

ABA-based intervention has proven to be the only gold standard therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder. The American Psychological Association and the U.S. Surgeon General support ABA as an effective best-practice treatment.

What Age Is ABA Therapy Most Effective?

Research shows that early intervention can improve your child's long-term results. The earlier you start ABA therapy, the better the outcomes will be for your child. Ideally, children should begin the therapy regimen between 2 and 6 years old. At this age, ABA therapy can influence language development, emotional regulation, play skills and advanced social interaction skills to help them succeed at home and school.

Young children undergo intense periods of mental and physical growth, making them more sensitive to changes in their environment and more open to learning new skills. Early intervention creates a foundation of positive behavior patterns that children can build on as they age.

How Much ABA Is Enough?

According to the Council of Autism Service Providers, children under 3 years old with an ASD diagnosis should have 25-40 hours of ABA therapy a week. Children nearing the age of 3 have better outcomes with 30 or more hours a week.

Comprehensive ABA treatment can last for 25 hours or more. This is a substantial time commitment, but research shows that time spent away from therapy can lead to greater skill deficits or behavioral challenges. Receiving intensive services as soon as recommended will give the child a greater chance at reducing the amount of services and time spent in therapies as the child gets older.

A wide body of research shows that intensive ABA services as early as possible lead to the most effective clinical outcomes for children with autism.

How Often Should My Child Attend ABA Therapy?

The duration and frequency of ABA therapy sessions depend on various factors such as the child's level of development, age and cost. Our clinicians take a naturalistic approach by meeting the child where they're at and formulating a regimen that works for their individual needs and learning goals.

Can ABA Help With Aggressive Behavior?

ABA therapy programs focus on helping children improve their social communication skills, learn to express themselves more effectively and reduce incidents of frustration that may lead to anger. Caregivers and parents engage in coaching and collaboration meetings, which can include strategies for dealing with emotional outbursts at home and in community settings.

Atlas Autism Health's therapy programs include components aimed at teaching children techniques to manage their emotions. Individualized learning plans address each child's unique behavioral needs and help reinforce positive behavior patterns and emotional regulation.

How Much Does This Cost?

ABA therapy is considered a medically necessary treatment for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. This means that insurance providers must cover the cost of ABA therapy to some extent. However, the amount of coverage may vary. 

Medicaid covers the full cost of ABA therapy, while commercial insurance providers may only cover a portion of the cost (require a co-pay). Some insurance providers may place limits on the number of ABA therapy sessions that are allowed each year. Always check with your insurance provider to confirm what your coverage includes. If your insurance provider does not cover the entire cost of ABA therapy, there may be other options available to help you afford this important therapy.

Atlas is here to help you navigate your insurance and understand your coverage.