Resources

At NextStep ABA, we understand that navigating autism services and understanding ABA therapy can feel overwhelming. This page is designed to provide clear, accessible information for families, caregivers, and anyone interested in learning more about Applied Behavior Analysis and how it can support your child’s development.

What is ABA Therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a research-based approach to understanding and improving behavior. ABA therapy focuses on teaching meaningful skills and reducing behaviors that interfere with learning or daily life. Therapy is tailored to each individual and can target:

Communication and language
Social skills
Daily living skills (e.g., brushing teeth, dressing)
Play and leisure skills
School readiness
Managing challenging behaviors

ABA uses positive reinforcement—rewarding desired behaviors to encourage their repetition—and data-driven strategies to track progress and adjust interventions.

Who Can Benefit from ABA?

ABA therapy is most commonly used to support individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), but it can also benefit children with other developmental delays or behavioral challenges. Early intervention can lead to the most significant outcomes, but ABA can be helpful at any age.

What Does ABA Therapy Look Like?

At NextStep ABA, therapy typically includes:

Assessment: A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) evaluates your child’s strengths, needs, and preferences.
Individualized Treatment Plan: Based on the assessment, we create a customized plan with specific goals.
1:1 Therapy Sessions: Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) work directly with your child under BCBA supervision.
Parent Training: We equip families with tools and strategies to support their child’s progress at home.
Ongoing Monitoring: Data is collected throughout therapy to make sure goals are being met and adjust as needed.
Therapy can take place at home, in clinics, or in community settings depending on your child’s needs.

Common Terms in ABA

BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst): A licensed professional who designs and oversees therapy plans.
RBT (Registered Behavior Technician): A trained technician who delivers therapy directly to the child under BCBA supervision.
Reinforcement: A strategy that increases the likelihood of a behavior by following it with a preferred item, praise, or activity.
Prompting: Helping a child complete a task (e.g., showing or guiding them) until they can do it independently.
Data Collection: Recording behaviors and responses during sessions to measure progress objectively.

Tips for Families Starting ABA

Be Involved: Your participation is key. Ask questions, attend parent training sessions, and collaborate with your team.
Be Patient: Progress takes time. Celebrate small wins along the way.
Stay Consistent: Use the same strategies at home that your therapy team uses in sessions.
Communicate Often: Share updates with your BCBA about changes at home, school, or in your child’s routine.
Prioritize Your Child’s Joy: ABA is most effective when it’s engaging and fun. Learning should be a positive experience.

Signs That ABA Is Working

Improvement in communication and language
Greater independence with daily tasks
Reduced frequency of problem behaviors
More social interaction with peers and family
Increased confidence and participation in routines

What to Expect at NextStep ABA

From your first phone call to ongoing therapy, our team is here to guide and support you. We offer:

Compassionate and experienced professionals
Customized therapy plans for every child
Ongoing support and parent coaching
A collaborative approach that values your insight as a caregiver