At Positive Pathways, we provide engaging therapy using the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Our play-based, child-led services are designed to help children on the autism spectrum and those with developmental disabilities thrive. Our board-certified behavior analysts will also find the right plan for your child’s unique needs. If you think ABA therapy in California could help your child, reach out to Positive Pathways today. Read on to learn more about ABA’s benefits.
What is ABA Therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a science-based treatment using behavioral principles that can be used to teach children on the autism spectrum a variety of life skills. These skills include, communication, social, independence, self-advocacy, play, and listening skills. This evidenced-based approach utilizes what we know about human behavior to create lasting change in our clients.
The primary goal of ABA therapy is to increase positive behavior while decreasing negative behaviors by replacing them with functional tools to increase appropriate behavior and communication. ABA is useful for children of all ranges of the spectrum who exhibit mild to severe behaviors. It is also effective in helping children reduce behaviors like self-injury. Additionally, ABA strives to teach children to generalize their skills. This means they can transfer new information and apply skills to all areas of their life, such as in the community, at school, or in the home.
Treatment begins with an observation and assessment, where the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) will identify key components and build an individualized treatment plan for your child’s unique needs. Through the use of positive reinforcement and our play-based approach to therapy, your ABA team can provide your child and family tools to improve cognitive, social, communication, and adaptive skills.
Benefits of ABA Therapy in California
Research shows that ABA is most successful when applied early while a child’s brain is still growing. Positive Pathways’ “early intervention owls” program provides at least 25 hours of play-based therapy per week to children between the ages of 2-5 years old. Research shows that this type of intensive ABA program can lead to long-term positive outcomes for children and their families.
To become certified, BCBAs must complete ABA coursework and an intensive supervision program of 1500 hours before passing the exam and obtaining their credential. This is the highest level of certification recognized in ABA, which is essential for your child’s success. Positive Pathways’ team of BCBAs have the knowledge, experience, and passion needed to identify and address the needs of your child.
What to Expect in ABA Therapy
At Positive Pathways, we use a play-based approach to ABA. This allows your child to learn at their developmental level. ABA uses individualized motivation and reinforcement to increase positive behavior and skills. Research shows children learn through play and exploration, as rewards and consequences are often part of the play. Positive Pathways uses a play-based approach to use natural motivations of children through their play and unique interests. When working with one of our ABA therapists, you and your child will learn to:
- Use the foundations of ABA and principles that drive behavior change
- Determine the behaviors that need to change for future success
- Set goals for behavior and communication
- Establish how to measure changes and improvements
- Learn new skills
- Learn how to reduce negative behaviors
- Gain an improved quality of life for the whole family
For best outcomes, parents and families need to be involved in their child’s ABA therapy. Skills that are learned in an ABA center or individual ABA therapy sessions should also be reinforced at home to increase and maintain skills. Our program prides itself on our parent training and family involvement. Our ABA team makes it a priority to regularly connect with parents about their child’s progress and how to incorporate these practices at home and in the community.
ABA Therapy in California at Positive Pathways
Positive Pathways acknowledges and celebrates each child’s unique skill set and provides several different models for ABA therapy that best suits you and your family. These include:
- In-home ABA Therapy: One-on-one in-home sessions leading to a social, community-based program for all ages and skill levels, tailored to your schedule and location
- ABA Therapy for Schools and Community: Our staff can help your child access classroom curriculum and community programs with in-person support
- ABA Center services: Your child can learn skills with their peers in a supportive and structured environment with an increased opportunity for social interactions
Contact our staff today at 650.260.4670. Our experienced, board-certified behavior analysts can help you obtain the services you need.
