Methods and Modalities

Athena Behavioral Center’s EIDBI program uses ABA therapy modality. ABA is Applied Behavioral Analysis. ABA therapy is a science that seeks to understand, predict, and change behavior. Most professionals who work in the field of behavior analysis work in behavior intervention for children with ASD, an approach used to shape the behavior of children. We will only be addressing ABA as an intervention therapy for children with Autism.

 ABA uses operant conditioning and positive reinforcement (praise and rewards) to “program” desired behaviors.

Applied Behavior Analysis is the use of behavior principles to solve practical problems. Behaviorism is a branch of Psychology that sees an individual’s environment as providing reinforcers that shape or change behaviors. In addressing problem behaviors, ABA identifies the antecedents and consequences of the behavior in order to understand what motivates and sustains the behaviors. Once known, negative behaviors can be shaped into more positive or socially acceptable behaviors through the use of behavior modification techniques.

The application of ABA principles to interventions for children with diagnoses such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) and Asperger’s Syndrome have demonstrated statistically significant results in not only managing problem behaviors, but also in identifying methods for teaching new skills. Treatment modalities utilized include Discrete Trial Training, Play Therapy, Picture Exchange Communication Systems, Social Stories and Theory of Mind interventions. The United States Surgeon General has endorsed the ABA method as the treatment of choice for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

ABA is also appropriate for use with individuals diagnosed with other related disorders, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, behavioral disorders and phobias. Breaking of habitual patterns of behaviors is reinforced with ABA.

The approach includes training, assessment and program development that addresses the unique behavioral, emotional, social and communication issues of a given client.