What is Behavior Analysis?

Behavior Analysis is a data-based method for affecting behavior change. Applied Behavior Analysis is a science used to influence socially significant behavior through different behavior change techniques.  Behavior Analysis takes into account environmental, biological, social, pharmacological, and many more factors that influence behavior.  

How does it work?

Behavior Analysts provide services to a variety of individuals with many different needs.  Behavior analysis can be used to implement skill deficiency (day-to-day activities, communication, etc.) as well as maladaptive behaviors (aggression, self-injury, etc.).

The initial stage is a functional behavior assessment.  In this stage we identify the behavior of concern and determine the function of the behavior (why the behavior is occuring).  In ABA there are 4 functions: escape/avoidance, to gain access to something, to get attention, or sensory stimulation.  This assessment may be done through direct observation of the individual, interview like questions with the individual or care giver, or through a functional assessment in which the antecedent and consequences are manipulated to better understand the behavior.  

Once the function of the behavior is understood, the behavior analyst can begin gathering and analyzing data, writing behavior plans, training individuals, and implementing treatment. 

What is the difference between a BCBA, BCaBA, and a Behavior Assistant?

  • BCBA
    • A "BCBA" is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.  At a minimum, they hold a Masters degree from an accredited University and have passed the BCBA certification exam provided by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
  • BCaBA
    • A "BCaBC" is a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst.  At a minimum they hold a Bachelors degree from an accredited university and have passed the BCaBA certification exam provided by the BACB.  BCaBA's work under the supervision of a BCBA.
  • Behavior Assistant
    • A Behavior Assistant works under the direct supervision of a BCBA or a BCaBA.  They have received training in basic behavior principles and can only implement the behavior programs in which they have been directly trained. 

What are in-home and community based services?

In-home based services are conducted in the individuals home environment.  The individual's family is directly involved in the development, training and implementation of the behavior program.  

Community based services are similar to in-home in which services are conducted out in the community and in the individuals natural everyday environment. 

Why do you not offer clinical services?

It is our experience that in-home service is the most effective method for service delivery.  While the structure and rigidity of clinical services do offer some advantages, they also have some limitations. Many times the progress that is achieved in the clinical setting does not carry over to the home environment.  We believe that the most effective services are the ones in which the families are personally invested in learning and implementing the behavior programs.