Fredericksburg Parent

20 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • April 2021 Ask the Expert a sk t h e e x p e rt Q. What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)? ABA is a scientific approach to changing behavior in a very intentional and methodical way. We define behaviors as anything a person does that can be observed and measured. We are taking principles of behavior and applying them to everyday problems in everyday life. A lot of the behaviors we work with stem from a lack of communication skills, so a lot of what we do is to build up communication skills that can replace the behaviors we want to see reduced so that children can interact more successfully with those around them. Our work at Compass is mostly with children with autism and related diagnoses. However, even if you don't have a child on the spec- trum, ABA can be used to improve concentration, the ability to finish schoolwork, skills that have to do with reading, self-help, social skills. INTERVIEWED BY EMILY FREEHLING About 1 in 54 children in the U.S. have autism spectrum disorder, according to a 2020 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC also reported that about 1 in 6 children have a developmental disability, such as autism or ADHD, in a survey of parents. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientifically validated therapy that has been shown to produce improvements in adaptive functioning and increase independence in children with autism. ABA also benefits children with ADHD and other related developmental disabilities. Compass Counseling Services is a behavioral health agency that has been serving children and families throughout Virginia since 2004. Through its Connections program, Compass provides home-based ABA services to children under 21 who demonstrate significant impairment in adaptive functioning that is related to either developmental delays or other health conditions. Lucia Morey is a board-certified Behavior Analyst for Compass who offers services in both English and Spanish. As our April Expert, Lucia and the Compass team talk about how ABA works, and how families can benefit from the therapeutic tools Compass offers. Counseling Services Board-Certified Behavior Analysts help children learn important communication and life skills.

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