Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects individuals globally across all areas of functioning in their lives. Autism impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Most commonly, autism is characterized by the following: Difficulties in communication and socialization, stereotyped behaviors and delay in speech and language skills.

Prevalence: In 2013, the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network found that an average of 1 in every 55. Children born in the United States have autism, making autism the most common of the pervasive developmental disorders. Autism is five times more common in boys, with 1 in 54 boys receiving the diagnosis.

What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?

ABA refers to an evidence-based program that is referred to as the “best practices” for treating children diagnosed with an Autistic Disorder. ABA is a systematic methodology used to maximize learning for children within the Autism Spectrum. ABA incorporates two components: Teaching and Behavior Modification. Skilled therapists trained in ABA work with children in their homes, schools and out in the community based on the child’s specific needs. This program is highly intensive and includes the parents, extended family, ABA therapists and the child’s educators as a part of the treatment team. The child’s treatment team is supervised by highly trained and experienced clinical supervisors. Every program is individualized according to the child’s specific strengths and deficits. The goal is always to improve deficit areas and decrease or eliminate the inappropriate behaviors often associated with autism.