Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is a collection of strategies and techniques based on the principles of human learning and behaviour which are used to teach new skills and behaviours. The overall goal of ABA is to achieve outcomes that are meaningful to the individual receiving the service, through a positive therapy experience. ABA, in collaboration with allied health professionals such as Speech Pathologists, Psychologists, and Occupational Therapists, can support an individual to make gains in the following areas: 

  • Language and communication
  • Emotional regulation 
  • Tasks of daily living (e.g. hygiene, dressing)
  • Motor skills
  • Play Skills
  • Readiness for learning in group environments
  • Social Communication

ABA can also help to reduce behaviours of concern by identifying events and stimuli in the environment that are influencing that behaviour. It aims to equip an individual with skills that serve to replace that behaviour while still meeting the individual’s needs and preferences. ABA also focuses on educating significant others in a person’s environment and this can include home, school and early childhood settings.
Teaching methods within ABA are individualised to how the child learns best. The ultimate goal of an ABA program is to reach a point where the individual’s need for support is reduced, and their ability to be independent and happy in their environment is strengthened. 

EAS Autism Therapy Provider

ABA programs at EAS

  1. General intake appointment – all children who access any service at EAS must complete a general intake appointment first. This will be completed by a clinical leader within your region.
  2. ABA Assessment – we want to be sure we understand as much about your child, parental priorities and the environment as possible. This will ensure we can individualise your child’s program and play to their strengths. We also need to ensure that our therapy aligns with your child’s NDIS goals.
  3. Development of an individualised therapy plan with goals that will support your child to make progress towards relevant NDIS goals.
  4. Client-specific training of the Behaviour Therapists (BT’s) who will carry out the majority of therapy with your child.
  5. Commencement of regular ABA – this will be delivered either in-home or another community setting (such as childcare or kindergarten). In future, therapy in-clinic will also be available in some regions.
  6. Ongoing data collection and analysis so that the program is responsive to your child’s growth and changing needs.
  7. Modifications and updates to the therapy plan as needed and with the input of the individual and family.
  8. Generalisation and maintenance – after skills and behaviours are learned, we want to be sure they continue in the relevant contexts. This can include education and training for relevant people (e.g., parents, education staff) and will support your child to be successful across environments.
  9. Program reviews – these are formal reviews completed by the ABA consultant (e.g., BCBA) as part of all ABA programs. These occur on a regular schedule dependent upon the number of hours of therapy your child is completing.
  10. Parent Meetings – these are formal meetings that provide an opportunity for parents to meet with the ABA Consultant (e.g., BCBA) and highlight priorities for their child to be included in the therapy program. These occur monthly (at a minimum) as part of all ABA programs.

Our Values When Conducting ABA

  • Neurodiversity-affirming practice 
  • Respect for the individual, family values and cultural context 
  • Evidence-informed and compassionate practice 
  • Multidisciplinary collaboration 
  • Trauma-informed care
  • Inclusion 
  • Assent, consent and self-determination 

Ready to Get Started?

Each young person deserves the space to realise a rewarding and independent journey through life. Our team is here to support you and your child through the many steps along that journey. Reach out to our client intake team for further information.