ABA stands for Applied Behavior Analysis. It is the science-based focusing on understanding and supporting human behavior. Most commonly, ABA is presented at a 1:1 ratio with the RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) and the child, however some other service models can include multiple technicians per child for more challenging behaviors or even group setting for things like social skills. ABA focuses on teaching meaningful skills and reducing behaviors that may interfere with learning and daily life. ABA is widely used to support individuals with autism and other developmental differences, but its principles apply to everyone!

At its core, ABA looks at how behavior is influenced by the environment and how we can make positive changes to help someone learn and grow. The goal is always to build independence and improve quality of life. Such behaviors include but are not limited to:

  • Communication

  • Challenging behavior

  • Social skills

  • Adaptive learning

  • School Readiness

  • Career readiness skills

  • Reciprocal conversation

  • Hygiene and grooming

  • Managing emotions appropriately

  • Adjusting to changes in routine

  • Toilet training

  • Attending to non-preferred tasks

ABA therapy is a highly individualized approach, meaning that each child's therapy is tailored to their specific strengths, needs, and abilities. By understanding how learning and behavior works, it can make significant changes in our daily lives. The goal of ABA Therapy is to create individualized evidence-based programs that teach new skills that can be utilized in every environment. Another major goal of ABA is to support caregivers with effective tools and strategies to support their children’s lifelong needs. 

ABA strategies are all around us—even if we don’t realize it! Here are some real-life examples:

  • Teaching Daily Routines – A child learning to brush their teeth may need step-by-step guidance at first. Using ABA, we can break the task into small steps, provide encouragement, and gradually reduce help until the child can do it independently.

  • Building Communication Skills – If a child struggles to ask for what they need, ABA can help teach simple ways to request things, like using words, pictures, or gestures.

  • Reducing Challenging Behavior – If a child has frequent tantrums when told “No”, ABA can help identify what’s triggering the behavior and teach a better way to communicate their needs.

  • Helping with Social Skills – Many kids benefit from structured practice in making friends, sharing, or taking turns. ABA provides clear, step-by-step guidance to support these interactions.

Every child is unique, and ABA is tailored to meet their specific needs. It’s not about making kids "fit in"—it’s about giving them the tools to thrive in their own way. With the right support, children can gain skills that help them lead happier, more independent lives. Research shows the positive impact ABA therapy can have on children diagnosed with Autism and related disorders.

ABA therapy is a flexible and individualized approach, but it typically requires a significant time commitment to be effective. In-home and clinic-based ABA programs can range from 10 to 40 hours per week, depending on the child's needs, goals, and family preferences.

  • In-home ABA often integrates therapy into daily routines and may offer more flexibility in scheduling.

  • Clinic-based ABA provides a structured environment with access to specialized resources and social opportunities.

  • Caregiver support training is an essential part of ABA, helping parents and family members learn strategies to reinforce skills, manage behaviors, and support progress at home.

Regardless of the setting, consistency is key, and families play an important role in reinforcing skills outside of therapy sessions. Your ABA provider will work with you to develop a schedule that fits your child’s needs while balancing family life.