Entries by A Bridge to Achievement

Caregiver Training for ABA & Why It’s Important

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for autistic learners uses structured techniques to teach skills, manage behaviors, and promote independence through positive reinforcement. Incorporating caregivers in an individual’s treatment plan is profoundly beneficial for the learners and their caregivers. It ensures consistency across environments, accelerates progress toward goals, and empowers caregivers to reinforce desired behaviors, leading […]

Why is ABA Controversial? And Where Does ABtA Stand?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a widely-recognized therapeutic modality for learners with autism, but some are skeptical of its efficacy due to misconceptions about methodology and practice. In this article, we’ll briefly explore the history of ABA therapy, address some criticisms of ABA, and explain where A Bridge to Achievement (ABtA) stands regarding each.  ABA […]

Enhancing ABA Therapy Using Practical Functional Assessment & Skill-Based Treatment

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy is an evidence-based, data-driven approach that focuses on understanding and improving behaviors through the principles of shaping and differential reinforcement. It is well-established as being excellent for teaching new skills, promoting tolerance, and reducing maladaptive or harmful behaviors. While not limited to those with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), ABA therapy […]

How Many Hours of ABA Therapy is Needed?

“How long should a child stay in ABA therapy?” This is a question we hear a lot, and the answer isn’t straightforward. In fact, it’s kind of like asking, “How long is a piece of string?” It depends.  Some learners need short-term intervention, say six months to a year. Most learners with autism benefit from […]

Who Can Provide ABA Therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is an evidence-based approach often used to support, but is not limited to, autistic learners. It’s essential to understand who is qualified to provide ABA therapy to ensure your loved one receives the highest standard of care. A Bridge to Achievement (ABtA) is solely dedicated to supporting the autism community, […]

Understanding Neuro-Affirming, Assent-Based ABA Therapy

We stand firm in our commitment to practicing a neuro-affirming, assent-based approach to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. If you’ve been with A Bridge to Achievement (ABtA) for some time, we’ve likely discussed what this means, but if you’re new to us, this may be an abstract idea. Operating with these principles is critical to […]

Does ABA Therapy Replace School?

ABA therapy is a well-established method for supporting learners with autism. Interventions are highly-customized to focus on each individual’s needs, and on understanding and improving specific behaviors. Outcomes can significantly enhance the developmental and educational experiences of children with autism.  So, can ABA therapy replace school? As we will explain in this article, ABA therapy […]

What Does SD Mean in ABA Therapy?

The medical field has no shortage of terms, abbreviations, and acronyms that practitioners use as shorthand between one another and with knowledgeable clients and their families. But hearing them when you’re new to a practice or treatment can be confusing.  In this article, we’ll explore a term and abbreviation you may hear while your learner […]

How Long Is an Autism Evaluation?

If you’re noticing possible challenges with your child’s or teenager’s social or emotional development, you may be wondering if an autism evaluation is needed. When possible, early detection for a child with autism is ideal to ensure they and you have the right support in the years to come. However, testing can be initiated at […]

When to Stop ABA Therapy

For parents and families, knowing when to discharge from ABA therapy is often as layered as the experience of enrolling in treatment and progressing through one-on-one and small-group interventions.  Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is multi-faceted and highly-focused on individual skills, needs, and behaviors. Just as your clinical team works collaboratively to chart the best […]