Q: What is ABA?

A: ABA stands for Applied Behavior Analysis. It is scientific approach to understanding behavior and how it is affected by the environment. It is an evidence based treatment used to help individuals develop new skills and decrease problem behaviors.

ABA is a recognized therapy for treating developmental disorders and disabilities. ABA techniques are commonly used for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), intellectual disabilities, and similar conditions.

ABA is one of the most proven evidence-based interventions for autism and is covered by most health insurance plans.

Q: How long does ABA therapy typically last?

A: The duration of ABA therapy varies depending on the individual's goals, progress, and needs. We will work with you to create a plan that best fits your situation.

Q: Why do I hear negative things about ABA?

A: There are misconceptions that ABA is harmful, coercive, or aims to make individuals conform to specific standards/ turning them into robots. The misconceptions exist due to a variety of factors, including limited understanding of its principles and techniques, misrepresentation of its practices in the media, and misunderstandings about the goals of ABA therapy. Another contributing factor is the involvement of practitioners who may not be well-trained or who rely on outdated methods. When individuals are not adequately trained in ABA or use approaches that have been surpassed by more effective techniques, it can lead to suboptimal outcomes and reinforce negative perceptions of the therapy.

At ANT, ensuring we are up-to-date with evidence-based practices is fundamental to our operations as we strive to provide the most beneficial and ethical care for all our clients.

Q: Does ABA aim to make individuals conform ( turn them into robots)?

A: No. When properly implemented following its guiding principles, ABA does not turn individuals into robots. ABA focuses on promoting socially significant behaviors that improve individuals' quality of life and independence, rather than on making them conform to specific standards.

ABA is a complex and individualized therapy that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each person. This complexity can lead to misunderstandings or oversimplifications of ABA principles, giving rise to myths about its rigidity or lack of flexibility.

ANT’s approach is centered on the belief that treatment should be individualized to meet the unique needs of each child and their family. By focusing on a child's interests and strengths, we aim to foster their unique personality and use these characteristics as the foundation for their success.

Q: What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a therapeutic method that aims to enhance individuals' adaptability and promote a purposeful life. ACT within ABA stresses acknowledging factors beyond one's control while dedicating efforts towards constructive actions that enhance overall well-being. This therapeutic strategy underscores mindfulness, embracing challenging emotions and thoughts, and actively pursuing adjustments aligned with personal values.

Incorporating ACT into ABA therapy aligns with ANT’s client-centered approach, emphasizing the importance of the individual's personal goals, values, and cultural background leading to more meaningful and sustainable outcomes, as clients are empowered to make choices that resonate with their authentic selves.