Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach that applies principles of learning and motivation to improve socially significant behaviors. It is widely used for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and emphasizes individualized interventions based on detailed behavioral assessments. ABA is grounded in scientific research and tailored to meet the unique needs of each learner. By focusing on observable behaviors and practical interventions, ABA therapy empowers learners to achieve meaningful and lasting outcomes through the power of positive reinforcement. Below is an overview of some of our approaches:

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1. Child-Led/Play-Based Therapy: Children learn most effectively through play, their natural mode of exploration and learning. By embedding our therapeutic interventions within play-based activities, we ensure children are learning in the environment where they feel most comfortable (see NET below). Contrary to some beliefs, child-led therapy does not mean that children direct the sessions while therapists merely follow. Instead, we observe cues, motivating operations, and individual interests to guide the session, creating a structured yet engaging learning experience.  

2. Assent-Based Practices: Our sessions are play-based, emphasizing the importance of assent and autonomy, ensuring learners are willing participants in our interventions without coercion. At the same time, we carefully introduce structure and gradually build tolerance for less preferred but necessary activities. This approach enables our learners to thrive in least restrictive environments, such as school settings with peers, and in community settings where community rules must be followed. Ultimately, our goal is to have our learners generalize skills outside of the therapeutic setting so they can navigate the community independently. In short, we aim to work ourselves out of a job.

3. Naturalistic Environment Teaching (NET): NET focuses on teaching skills in the natural environment where they will be used. This approach utilizes the individual’s natural interests and incorporates learning opportunities into everyday activities, making the skills more relevant and generalizable.

4. Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT): DTT is a structured ABA technique that involves breaking down skills into small, teachable components. Each trial or teaching opportunity consists of a clear instruction, a response from the learner, and a consequence (reward or correction). DTT is particularly effective for teaching new skills in a systematic and repetitive manner and a great way to prepare learners to join public or private school settings.

5. Social Skills Training: At Phoenix Rising, social skills are taught in a naturalistic environment and are never rigid or forced. Interventions are designed to help our learners develop meaningful relationships and navigate social situations with confidence. Social skills goals target social communication, interaction, and play skills with a heavy focus on child-led interactions with our learners practicing full autonomy in all interactions

6. Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA): FBA involves identifying the underlying causes of problematic behaviors. By understanding the function of a behavior, therapists can develop more effective intervention strategies to address the root causes.

 

*This is not an exhaustive list of ABA strategies and interventions. Further approaches are discussed during your parent and caregiver support training.