Types of ABA
Treatment Programs
So, you have the diagnosis, and now you need to sort through all of the treatment options available. This can be quite a task for caregivers, especially with the wide array of services offered by ABA providers. We're here to help you find a program that will achieve the best outcomes for your child!
While ABA treatment programs use many different methods and techniques as part of a client’s treatment package, the programs can be generally divided into two main models: “Focused ABA Treatment Model” and “Comprehensive ABA Treatment Model”.
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The treatment package will be different for each client, and should be based upon their specific needs, the number of treatment goals, and how they respond to treatment. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), developed practice guidelines for the ABA treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in early 2012, and provided the following specifications for each model.
Comprehensive ABA Treatment
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Purpose: The treatment goals cover multiple developmental domain areas such as: cognitive, communication, social, emotional, and adaptive functioning. The goals will also target decreasing any maladaptive behaviors. The overall goal is to close the gap between the client’s level of functioning and that of typically developing peers.
How Long: Intensity of treatment typically ranges from 30-40 hrs per week. Treatment hours are increased or decreased based on the client’s response to treatment and current needs.
Focused ABA Treatment
Purpose: The treatment goals are focused on decreasing acute maladaptive behaviors, and skill deficits in a single developmental domain (e.g., communication). The goals are first prioritized based upon the client's current health and safety concerns, and then upon their skill deficits.
How Long: Intensity of treatment typically ranges from 10-25 hours per week. However, a higher intensity may be recommended depending on the severity level of their behaviors.