A common first step in skills training during an ABA session typically involves an in-depth parent interview and an assessment measure such as the PEAK Relational Training System, Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills (ABLLS-R), Early Start Denver Model Checklist or the Verbal Behavior Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP).
At Aria Alessia, our CUTIE Prep School is designed to equip children with the necessary skills to transition smoothly from a clinical setting to an educational environment. We understand that every child is unique, and therefore, our program is tailored to meet the specific needs of each student, ensuring they are well-prepared to thrive in less restrictive settings such as schools.
Those seeking behavioral health services for autism spectrum disorder are placed on the waiting list after completing the intake process. First, a referral must be sent to the Cutie Center for Autism and Related Exceptionalities. Referrals can be made by parents but they must be accompanied by a physicians' referral or prescription for services.
Once a referral is received, families are sent a screening form to assess if the center's services meet their needs. If not, the client will be referred to another agency. If appropriate, an initial assessment is conducted where staff observe the client, usually at the clinic. After this assessment, the client may either be admitted immediately, placed on the waiting list, or referred to an external agency.
To support our clients' progress across different environments, services can also be provided in schools and the community with funder approval. Treatment sessions have been held at parks to develop social skills, at grocery stores to enhance participation in family activities, and at restaurants to teach appropriate mealtime behavior.
The treatment team includes a clinical supervisor (usually a BCBA) who designs your child's program and behavior therapists who implement the recommended teaching strategies and interventions.
Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) are Master's level clinicians and are trained in assessment procedures, behavior intervention design as well as staff training and parent coaching. A behavior therapist is paired with your child to provide one-on-one therapy.
Our behavior therapists are clinicians with an undergraduate degree in psychology, or early childhood education receive a high level of initial and ongoing training to ensure they are well prepared for their important job of supporting and teaching their clients. Some important characteristics we look for when recruiting staff are dependability, empathy, compassion, ethusiasm, and a willingness to learn. Upon hiring, our behavior therapists immediately begin working towards their Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) credential.
Parents are also key members of the team, as they extend treatment to other teachable moments throughout the day. Our clinical staff value the strong rapport they build with their clients and the collaborative partnerships they form with their clients' families.
Therapy sessions can vary in frequency, occurring a few times a week or even daily, depending on your child's specific needs. Techniques are customized to help the child achieve particular positive behaviors, such as using the bathroom or engaging in play with peers. Therapists work one-on-one with your child, creating environments that facilitate the practice of these skills.
While most therapy sessions are conducted at our Aria Alessia Pediatric Therapy centers, some children benefit more from in-home sessions. Depending on the skill being developed and the most supportive environment, therapists may opt to hold sessions in the family's home. For instance, addressing sleep issues might be more effective in the home setting, where therapists can observe and identify issues in the natural environment. Most other therapies, like toileting and social skill-building, are conducted at our centers, which are designed to be fun and comfortable for children.
Therapists use positive reinforcement, such as praise or preferred activities, to encourage engagement.
Large goals are broken into smaller, manageable steps to facilitate progress.
Parents play a crucial role in the therapy process. We allocate time to review evaluations, introduce the treatment program, and answer any questions. Therapists provide regular progress updates and offer tips to encourage positive behaviors at home.
Results from ABA therapy can be seen after a few weeks or months, with improvements often becoming noticeable after several sessions. Younger children may continue ABA therapy for several years, while older children (upper elementary and middle school) may only need a few months of therapy.
We offer additional services like speech, occupational, or physical therapy, often scheduling multiple services on the same day for a cohesive approach.
Our centers use play-based methods to make therapy fun and effective by recreating real-life situations.