What is Applied Behavior Analysis?
A Practical, Evidence-Based Approach to Meaningful Change
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a science that helps us understand how behavior works and how learning happens. It is a deep dive into the relationship between the environment and behavior and how each influences and responds to one another.
At Brennan Family Behavior Consulting, we use ABA to…
Teach new skills (e.g., communication, daily routines, social skills)
Support independence
Reduce challenging or unsafe behaviors
Improve quality of life—for individuals and their families
ABA interventions are highly individualized. We tailor every plan to meet the unique strengths, needs, and goals of the individual and their family. We prioritize compassionate care, and assent based services working collaboratively with caregivers and the learner themselves to ensure therapeutic and meaningful skill progress.
Common ABA Strategies
Reinforcement: Emphasis on providing responses to specific behaviors that will increase the probability that those behaviors will occur again in the future.
Consistent reinforcement strategies can help increase functional communication, positive socialization with peers and siblings, and adherence to schedules and routines.
Prompting and Fading: Offering the right level of support as new skills are learned, and gradually reducing that support to ensure independence.
Shaping: Breaking down complex tasks into small, teachable moments and providing reinforcement for every step of the way.
Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA): Direct and indirect assessments and observations designed to identify the purposes behind challenging and/or maladaptive behaviors.
Data Collection: Tracking progress over time to ensure meaningful outcomes.
A Collaborative Process
ABA works best when families are involved. We believe parents and caregivers are essential team members. At BFBC, we not only work directly with individuals but also coach and support families so they feel confident using ABA strategies in everyday life.