We meet a lot of people who assume that, because we’re experts in applied behaviour analysis (ABA), we work exclusively with people on the autism spectrum. In the minds of many, ABA=therapy for autism and nothing else. That’s a myth – one of many misconceptions about ABA – and the truth is that ABA is not just for autism. Many of our clients do not have diagnoses! Here’s an overview of ABA and its many uses, debunking the myth about ABA is only for ASD:
What is ABA?
Essentially, it’s a science-based approach that focuses on modifying undesirable behaviour (it has to be observable, such as smoking or hitting) to a meaningful degree to improve a person’s or family’s life experience. ABA draws on various techniques to decrease negative behaviours, increase positive ones and help learners gain new skills.
Where ABA Works
ABA is not just for autism. It can work wonders wherever there is observable, problematic behaviours that need positive shaping to enhance quality of life. For example, ABA can help with:
- Functional communication skills
- Academics
- Gross and fine motor skills
- Social skills
- Self-care skills
- Toilet training
- Rehabilitation after stroke
- Smoking cessation
- Health and exercise goals
- Employee performance in the workplace
- Animal training
Shayna and Shira help all young learners expand on or acquire new skills that they’re struggling with by using the fundamentals of ABA. (Sorry, dog training and quitting cigarettes isn’t our forte.) We make learning and behaving fun!
