Applied Behavior Analysis
Behavior Analysis is a practice based on the science of human learning and behavior. Behavior analysts believe that most of our behavior is learned and experiences shape human behavior.
Behavior analysts believe in systematic application of treatment procedures and use of accurate and frequent data to validate treatment results. They believe that it is important to draw conclusions objectively based on observable and measurable behavior. Behavior analysts do not typically provide “talk” therapy unless they are also trained in that area.
Therapy Consists of Active Participation by Clients
Therapy consists of active participation by clients as opposed to talking or processing about experiences. The goal of behavioral therapy is to produce positive and socially significant changes in behavior. Because behavior analysis treatment often requires effort, patience, and time, it can sometimes feel difficult.
For example, when a child’s tantrums have been reinforced for months, when behavioral treatment is introduced, child’s behavior may get worse before it gets better.It is important that, once committed to a plan, clients and significant others carry out behavioral recommendations and always inform the lead therapist if for some reason they are unable to do so.
When treatment is evaluated by a behavior analyst, he or she will assume that a client and his/her family are implementing it with integrity. Clients and their families should feel fully comfortable discussing any barriers to implementation. Honesty and trusting relationship are critical to the process.
What To Expect After Initial Intake And Screening?
The client is typically evaluated in their natural environment. The following assessment procedures are used:
Service Authorization by your insurance provider (unless paying out of pocket)
Once the assessment is completed, the behavior analyst will prepare a comprehensive report, including functional behavior assessment for any problematic behaviors with which the client presents.
This report will be submitted to the insurance company along with other forms required by client’s insurance. The behavior analyst will recommend a clinically indicated number of therapy hours as part of the service request.
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Development of Intervention by BCBA
Once insurance authorizes services, therapy sessions can be scheduled. A Registered Behavior Technician (an RBT), who is supervised by the lead behavior analyst in implementation of the client’s programs, may begin working with the child. The first few sessions typically involve building rapport and pairing positively with the child so that the RBT establishes him or herself as someone the client looks forward to seeing.
While the RBT builds rapport, the lead behavior analyst will develop 1. Treatment programs to address any skill deficits (e.g., in communication, social skills, daily living skills (e.g., toothbrushing), safety awareness, toilet training, bedtime routine etc.) and 2. Behavior plan to address challenging behaviors (e.g., tantrum behavior, self-injury, aggression etc.)
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Who is on your
treatment team?
Sometimes the BCBA and RBT see the child together. The BCBA may supervise the RBT to ensure treatment objectives are implemented with integrity.The ABA team at ATC has 25 years of experience in behavioral treatment across various settings.
Lead BCBA Dr. Anna Young, with 18+ years of practice in hospitals, schools, homes, and day programs, also designs research on behavioral interventions and caregiver support for children with special needs, including autism.
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Participation in Alternative, Non-Evidence-Based Therapies
ABA relies on objective data and evidence-based models. ABA practitioners respect that there may be ongoing research to prove that certain therapies that are not yet accepted as established or effective, may be deemed as effective in the future.
The lead behavior analyst will appreciate your honesty in disclosing any additional therapies that have not been specifically prescribed by a diagnostic physician and that may be “experimental’’ in nature.
This includes disclosure of medication and medication changes throughout the client’s treatment. Although the ABA team will not be able to implement any components of alternative treatment, the team can have an honest discussion with the client about any implications for participation in an alternative treatment and can help the client track progress using data. The ABA team will not support therapies that have been established as harmful. A list of established, emerging, non-established, and harmful treatments can be accessed at http://www.nationalautismcenter.org/national-standards-project
Confidentiality
In the state of Montana, clients and therapists have a confidential and privileged relationship. ABA therapists will not disclose anything that is observed, discussed, or related to clients. Confidentiality has limitations, as stipulated by law and includes the following:
Appointments
Please, follow the ATC policy on attendance. It is critical that the client attends therapy regularly. Many of the goals and objectives of therapy rely on repetition, practice, and frequent exposure to learning experiences. If client misses a lot of appointments, progress will be adversely affected.
Billings
1701 Ave E Suite A Billings, MT 59102
Butte
2100 Harrison Ave Suite C Butte, MT 59701
