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WHAT IS APPLIED BEHAVIOUR ANALYSIS (ABA)?

 

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is the science of human behaviour and learning. ABA consists of principles and procedures which can be used to teach new skills, increase appropriate behaviours and to decrease inappropriate behaviours. Research displaying the effectiveness of ABA with a variety of populations (including those with autism and developmental disabilities and across various ages) goes back over 40 years, and continues to grow with additional research today. Each skill that the individual has not acquired is broken down into small, manageable units, while providing numerous opportunities to practice each skill. These skills can range from the individual’s ability to follow simple instructions or identifying common objects, to more difficult skills such as social play and interaction or self-help skills. Many new skills are initially taught 

in a one to one setting, after which they can then be transferred into a more natural setting. All targets are monitored with data which is how programmes remain effective. Targets are moved along or further adapted based on if the data collected displays progress or difficulties. If progress halts, environmental variables are identified and adapted so progress can resume/continue.

An ABA program involves:

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Breaking down skills to their smallest manageable units and eventually expanding into more meaningful and complex units.Using evidence based procedures such as reinforcement, extinction, chaining, shaping, and prompting etc. to teach, generalise and maintain skills. A programme should be customized not only to the individual's skill level and needs, but also their preferences, family situation and interests. This is why one individual’s ABA program will look very different than another individuals programme.

 

Why ABA?

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Behaviour analysis is a scientifically validated approach and has been a widely used intervention to help/treat children with ASD and related developmental disorders effectively since the 1960’s. There are countless published research studies which documenting the effectiveness of ABA and further validating this treatment. ABA focuses on treating behavioural difficulties and producing socially significant improvement in human behaviour and therefore improving quality of life.

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Identifying Skills to Teach:

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At Piece of mind, along with gaining information from key personnel (parents, teachers etc.) we use a variety of assessments to assist in developing individualised skills teaching plans which include: Verbal Behaviour Milestone Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP) The Assessment of Basic Language and Learner Skills – Revised (ABLLS-R) The Assessment of Functional Living Skills Essentials for Living

 

Running an ABA home based program:

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We can provide ABA consultancy from experienced ABA consultants for both full time and part time ABA home programs. We can also provide regular program supervision in some areas of the UK and abroad. We are able to offer advice and support with setting up a home based program, including negotiating funding, recruiting therapists, training new therapists and the family.

What is a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA)?

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A BCBA can observe, track behaviours and gather information using direct and indirect assessments to determine the function of the behaviour(s) and then created a step-by-step behaviour plan with specific interventions to help your child in school or at home. Other assessments specific to children with Autism or other language and learning difficulties can be used to help create baseline data for academics, learner readiness, social and play skills, fine and gross motor, communication, and daily life skills. It is advisable for you to determine whether the person has the appropriate credentials with the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board when thinking of working with an ABA/VB practitioner.

 

Piece of Mind offers the following services:

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  • Monthly Consultations

  • Collaboration among team therapists and other service providers

  • IEP Development

  • Sensory Desensitization Programs (noise, tactile, hair cutting, etc.)

  • Toilet Training

  • Develop Individualized Social Stories

  • Functional Behaviour Assessments

  • Staff and Parent Training

  • Behaviour Support Plans

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