What is ABA therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a science based on the principles of behavior. It uses empirically proven techniques to understand and support behavior change. By assessing how a behavior interacts with its environment, ABA methods can help increase positive behaviors and reduce challenging ones. All interventions used in our Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) are evidence-based and tailored to the individual.

ABA is most commonly associated with supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities, particularly Autism Spectrum Disorder. However, ABA principles can be applied to a wide range of areas, including classrooms, health and fitness, sports performance, and business. ABA interventions can help:

• Teach new skills 
• Reduce problem behaviors 
• Improve health, safety, and quality of life 
• Modify caregiving strategies 
• Address phobias, compulsive, or repetitive behaviors 
• Support language development and communication

ABA therapy begins with a thorough initial assessment, where the Behavior Analyst gathers information about the individual’s health, educational background, and behavioral history. This helps identify patterns that contribute to skill deficits or challenging behaviors.

From this assessment, a detailed Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is created. The BIP outlines the strategies and interventions to be used by the Behavior Analyst, Registered Behavior Technician (RBT, if assigned), and caregivers. The assessment, plan development, and insurance approval process typically takes 45–60 days.

Training caregivers is a central part of therapy at Seaside. We empower families to use ABA strategies in daily life, ensuring that skills learned in therapy carry over into real-world routines, relationships, and meaningful moments.

The number of therapy hours is individualized based on medical necessity. For children, this can range from 6 to 40 hours per week. Our team works closely with families to create a schedule that balances daily life and maximizes outcomes.