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Autism Speaks is an organization that explores what ABA is. The organization offers advocacy, services, supports, research for individuals with autism. They offer many different partnerships for learning, experience, and help. Autism speaks is research based and useful for parents, educators and other caregivers.

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What is Applied Behavior Analysis?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy based on the science of learning and behavior.

Behavior analysis helps us to understand:

How behavior works

How behavior is affected by the environment

How learning takes place

ABA therapy applies our understanding of how behavior works to real situations. The goal is to increase behaviors that are helpful and decrease behaviors that are harmful or affect learning.

ABA therapy programs can help:

Increase language and communication skills

Improve attention, focus, social skills, memory, and academics

Decrease problem behaviors

The methods of behavior analysis have been used and studied for decades. They have helped many kinds of learners gain different skills - from healthier lifestyles to learning a new language. Therapists have used ABA to help children with autism and related developmental disorders since the 1960s.

How does ABA therapy work?

Applied Behavior Analysis involves many techniques for understanding and changing behavior. ABA is a flexible treatment:

Can be adapted to meet the needs of each unique person

Provided in many different locations - at home, at school, and in the community

Teaches skills that are useful in everyday life

Can involve one-to-one teaching or group instruction

Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is one of the main strategies used in ABA.

When a behavior is followed by something that is valued (a reward), a person is more likely to repeat that behavior. Over time, this encourages positive behavior change.

First, the therapist identifies a goal behavior. Each time the person uses the behavior or skill successfully, they get a reward. The reward is meaningful to the individual - examples include praise, a toy or book, watching a video, access to playground or other location, and more.

Positive rewards encourage the person to continue using the skill. Over time this leads to meaningful behavior change.

Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence

Understanding antecedents (what happens before a behavior occurs) and consequences (what happens after the behavior) is another important part of any ABA program.

The following three steps - the " A-B-Cs " - help us teach and understand behavior:

1. An antecedent: this is what occurs right before the target behavior. It can be verbal, such as a command or request. It can also be physical, such a toy or object, or a light, sound, or something else in the environment. An antecedent may come from the environment, from another person, or be internal (such as a thought or feeling).

2. A resulting behavior: this is the person's response or lack of response to the antecedent. It can be an action, a verbal response, or something else.

3. A consequence: this is what comes directly after the behavior. It can include positive reinforcement of the desired behavior, or no reaction for incorrect/inappropriate responses.

Looking at A-B-Cs helps us understand:

1. Why a behavior may be happening

2. How different consequences could affect whether the behavior is likely to happen again

EXAMPLE:

Antecedent: The teacher says "It's time to clean up your toys" at the end of the day.

Behavior: The student yells "no!"

Consequence: The teacher removes the toys and says "Okay, toys are all done."

How could ABA help the student learn a more appropriate behavior in this situation?

Antecedent: The teacher says "time to clean up" at the end of the day.

Behavior: The student is reminded to ask, "Can I have 5 more minutes?"

Consequence: The teacher says, "Of course you can have 5 more minutes!"

With continued practice, the student will be able to replace the inappropriate behavior with one that is more helpful. This is an easier way for the student to satisfy the child's needs!

What Does an ABA Program Involve?

Good ABA programs for autism are not "one size fits all." ABA should not be viewed as a canned set of drills. Rather, each program is written to meet the needs of the individual learner.

The goal of any ABA program is to help each person work on skills that will help them become more independent and successful in the short term as well as in the future.

Planning and Ongoing Assessment

A qualified and trained behavior analyst (BCBA) designs and directly oversees the program. They customize the ABA program to each learner's skills, needs, interests, preferences and family situation.

The BCBA will start by doing a detailed assessment of each person's skills and preferences. They will use this to write specific treatment goals. Family goals and preferences may be included, too.

Treatment goals are written based on the age and ability level of the person with ASD. Goals can include many different skill areas, such as:

Communication and language

Social skills

Self-care (such as showering and toileting)

Play and leisure

Motor skills

Learning and academic skills

The instruction plan breaks down each of these skills into small, concrete steps. The therapist teaches each step one by one, from simple (e.g. imitating single sounds) to more complex (e.g. carrying on a conversation).

The BCBA and therapists measure progress by collecting data in each therapy session. Data helps them to monitor the person's progress toward goals on an ongoing basis.

The behavior analyst regularly meets with family members and program staff to review information about progress. They can then plan ahead and adjust teaching plans and goals as needed.

ABA Techniques and Philosophy

The instructor uses a variety of ABA procedures. Some are directed by the instructor and others are directed by the person with autism.

Parents, family members and caregivers receive training so they can support learning and skill practice throughout the day.

The person with autism will have many opportunities to learn and practice skills each day. This can happen in both planned and naturally occurring situations. For instance, someone learning to greet others by saying "hello" may get the chance to practice this skill in the classroom with their teacher (planned) and on the playground at recess (naturally occurring).

The learner receives an abundance of positive reinforcement for demonstrating useful skills and socially appropriate behaviors. The emphasis is on positive social interactions and enjoyable learning.

The learner receives no reinforcement for behaviors that pose harm or prevent learning.
ABA is effective for people of all ages. It can be used from early childhood through adulthood!
Who provides ABA services?

A board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA)provides ABA therapy services. To become a BCBA, the following is needed:

Earn a master's degree or PhD in psychology or behavior analysis

Pass a national certification exam

Seek a state license to practice (in some states)

ABA therapy programs also involve therapists, or registered behavior technicians (RBTs). These therapists are trained and supervised by the BCBA. They work directly with children and adults with autism to practice skills and work toward the individual goals written by the BCBA. You may hear them referred to by a few different names: behavioral therapists, line therapists, behavior tech, etc.

To learn more, see the Behavior Analyst Certification Board website.

What is the evidence that ABA works?

ABA is considered an evidence-based best practice treatment by the US Surgeon General and by the American Psychological Association.

"Evidence based" means that ABA has passed scientific tests of its usefulness, quality, and effectiveness. ABA therapy includes many different techniques. All of these techniques focus on antecedents (what happens before a behavior occurs) and on consequences (what happens after the behavior).

More than 20 studies have established that intensive and long-term therapy using ABA principles improves outcomes for many but not all children with autism. "Intensive" and "long term" refer to programs that provide 25 to 40 hours a week of therapy for 1 to 3 years. These studies show gains in intellectual functioning, language development, daily living skills and social functioning. Studies with adults using ABA principles, though fewer in number, show similar benefits.

Is ABA covered by insurance?

Sometimes. Many types of private health insurance are required to cover ABA services. This depends on what kind of insurance you have, and what state you live in.

All Medicaid plans must cover treatments that are medically necessary for children under the age of 21. If a doctor prescribes ABA and says it is medically necessary for your child, Medicaid must cover the cost.

Please see our insurance resources for more information about insurance and coverage for autism services.

You can also contact the Autism Response Team if you have difficulty obtaining coverage, or need additional help.

Where do I find ABA services?

To get started, follow these steps:

1. Speak with your pediatrician or other medical provider about ABA. They can discuss whether ABA is right for your child. They can write a prescriptionfor ABA if it is necessary for your insurance.

2. Check whether your insurance company covers the cost of ABA therapy, and what your benefit is.

3. Search our resource directory for ABA providers near you. Or, ask your child's doctor and teachers for recommendations.

4. Call the ABA provider and request an intake evaluation. Have some questions ready (see below!)

What questions should I ask?

It's important to find an ABA provider and therapists who are a good fit for your family. The first step is for therapists to establish a good relationship with your child. If your child trusts his therapists and enjoys spending time with them, therapy will be more successful - and fun!

The following questions can help you evaluate whether a provider will be a good fit for your family. Remember to trust your instincts, as well!

1. How many BCBAs do you have on staff?

2. Are they licensed with the BACB and through the state?

3. How many behavioral therapists do you have?

4. How many therapists will be working with my child?

5. What sort of training do your therapists receive? How often?

6. How much direct supervision do therapists receive from BCBAs weekly?

7. How do you manage safety concerns?

8. What does a typical ABA session look like?

9. Do you offer home-based or clinic-based therapy?

10. How do you determine goals for my child? Do you consider input from parents?

11. How often do you re-evaluate goals?

12. How is progress evaluated?

13. How many hours per week can you provide?

14. Do you have a wait list?

15. What type of insurance do you accept?

For more information
ATN/AIR-P Parent's Guide to Applied Behavior Analysis ATN/AIR-P An Introduction to Behavioral Health Treatments Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)

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Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) | Autism Speaks

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What is aba therapy? Click here to learn about applied behavior analysis and how it works.

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Behavior Analysis Certification Board is an informational resource for parents, guardians, and other caretakers. The website offers educational videos, links, and resources related to ASD and ABA. This is an excellent learning tool.

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The National Autism Center (NAC) is a nonprofit organization that centers their resources for ABA and autism on evidence-based practices. They offer many different resources for families, educators, and practitioners. The NAC also offers live and on-demand webinars to support those working with individuals with ASD. The NAC also offers help with services such as schooling, counseling, training, and adult services.

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Picture Exchange Communication System is an evidence-based practice. This is a common method that can be split into phases in order to foster communication. This is often used with individuals with ASD that uses picture cards to support their communication for needs and wants. PECS can even eliminate frustrations when it comes to communicating. PECS experiences can be different for every individual.

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The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) — Kentucky Autism Training Center

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Positive reinforcement is an evidence-based ABA strategy. Many children with ASD express behaviors that are not always appropriate or desired. Reinforcement can be both positive or negative. Reinforcement looks differently for all children since each child may desire something different as their reward. When using reinforcement it is important to be consistent in order to see a change in behavior.

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Illinois Medicaid Coverage for ABA Therapy Medicaid has historically not covered ABA therapy in Illinois. As of May 2022, Medicaid will cover ABA therapy in our state. This is new legislation and many ABA providers, including The Place for Children with Autism, are...

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Using Effective Reinforcement Strategies at Home - The Place for Children with Autism

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Illinois Medicaid Coverage for ABA Therapy Medicaid has historically not covered ABA therapy in Illinois. As of May 2022, Medicaid will cover ABA therapy in our state. This is new legislation and many ABA providers, including The Place for Children with Autism, are...

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Discrete Trial Training (DTT) is an ABA practice that breaks skills into smaller and more manageable components. Reinforcements are used to enforce desired behaviors. When using DTT the adult must be clear with their directions or questions. Then, based off the response the learner is presented with a reward or a consequence. This is a structured and repetitive practice.

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What is Discrete Trial Training? | Autism Speaks

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Dr. Lauren Elder’s shares her opinion on how Discrete Trial Training can help teach skills to autistic kids and the types of ABA that are effective for autism.

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Visual supports are any sort of image that are used for communication. These can be used in a variety of different ways such as schedules, choice boards, labeling, etc. Typically visual supports are supported by text that matches the image. These can be simple or complex, pending on the individuals familiarity with using the visual supports. The use of visual supports helps decrease frustration and also increases confidence in communication and independence.

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What are visual supports?
Visual supports are any picture or object that are used to communicate information. This can be in forms of actual objects, pictures, words, or lists. We have visuals in our daily lives that communicate certain information to us such as: traffic lights are visuals to help us know when

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Proloquo2Go is a communication app designed for individuals who are non-speaking, hard to understand, or have difficulty speaking. Proloquo2Go is symbol based that is customizable to the users abilities and familiarity with language. The app is also supported in four different languages.

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Our AAC app family has two new members supporting children and parents on their AAC journey.

Built from the ground up with an easy-to-use layout, step-by-step guidance and support, you can easily make communication with AAC a part of your everyday life.

Try AssistiveWare Proloquo and Proloquo Coach free of charge for one month.

You'll love how this symbol-based app helps users learn how to express themselves. Proloquo2Go puts the user's development first, with innovative features based on clinical knowledge and user research.

It's also one of the few AAC apps designed to support all users, from beginning to advanced. Completely customizable and designed for a range of fine-motor and visual skills, the app's versatility makes it useful for non-speaking people with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and a range of other diagnoses or speech impediments like apraxia and dysarthria.

Grow and develop

Communicate with ease

Core words stay in the same place throughout the vocabulary to aid motor planning.

Customizable folder organization. You can also create your own folders easily, based on thematic templates.

Designed for a range of fine-motor and visual skills with options like 23 pre-programmed grid sizes and accessibility settings which support scanning and Apple's VoiceOver.

Use it your way

"
The app continues to grow with us, and each update brings only greater utility and reward. Rupert is seventeen now, and I can't see us ever using any other communication format.

Proloquo2Go lets you be you. Choose from 100 voices, ranging from friendly adult voices to genuine children's voices and bilingual voices. The voices are created using real recorded speech, making them feel surprisingly natural. For some languages, you even have multiple options.

Exploring insurance options for Proloquo2Go? We've got you covered.

Our partner, AbleNet, specializes in guiding people through the insurance process for AAC apps and devices. AbleNet works with ALL speech-language pathologists, regardless of their experience with speech devices.

Visit AbleNet's site or contact our support team and get Proloquo2Go the hassle-free way.

Proloquo2Go

AAC Essentials Bundle

Proloquo2Go

Help & Support

Join the community

Ask our Support team

Make every environment set up for quick access to AAC. These printable communication boards are handy to use across different environments. This is very helpful when the device is not available. Using core word boards means you can make AAC always available.
Quick communication boards (new!)
More words to communicate with. Read how to use the Quick communication boards.
Core word boards

Gateway to Language & Learning is an efficient core word vocabulary offering user vocabularies for children, teens, and adults.

Proloquo2Go has the CrescendoTM core word vocabulary built-in. The Gateway to Language and Learning© vocabulary is available as an in-app purchase.

Learn more about Crescendo and Gateway

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Proloquo2Go - AAC app with symbols - AssistiveWare

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You'll love how this symbol-based app helps users learn how to express themselves. Proloquo2Go puts the user's development first, with innovative features based on clinical knowledge and user research.

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Autistic Hub is a website that provides resources that help foster learning in the classroom for ASD. These resources include games, IEP materials, flashcards, and other ABA strategies.

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Vizzle offers a K-12 interactive academic learning curriculum through visuals. Vizzle offers three inclusive lesson libraries that are standard aligned, but lessons are able to be customized to meet the needs of students. Lessons are designed to support IEP goals. Vizzle is a scope and sequence program and offers automatic data collection as students progress through the program.

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Bridge the Learning Gap. Tiered, grade-level, and standards-aligned activities provide access for all K-12 students to achieve academic success.