APPLIED BEHAVIOUR ANALYSIS (ABA) 

Our centre embraces neurodiversity and applies the principles of ABA and compassionate care to all our clients, not just those with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based intervention that creates meaningful change in behaviour. While often used with children with autism, ABA is not limited to autism and can be applied to various populations to address a range of needs.

Skills taught through ABA focus on areas such as cognition, play skills, joint attention, language and communication, pre-academics, social skills, and independent self-help skills like dressing, feeding, and toileting.

At our centre, we prioritize removing barriers and teaching children skills through a compassionate care framework. We focus on helping children learn to self-advocate for their needs and achieve their goals.

The College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analyst of Ontario (CPBAO) provides guidelines and regulations for Registered Behaviour Analysts (RBA) to ensure ethical and effective practices.

ABA will be provided in focused interventions tailored to address specific skills and individual needs.

Focused ABA (Applied Behaviour Analysis) focuses on specific skills, typically concentrating on one or two primary goals identified by parents and clinicians as priorities for intervention. These goals may include learning to dress independently or developing a communication system.

The intensity of therapy can vary, ranging from 3 to 20 hours per week, and sessions can take place in the location that best suits the client and their family.

A Comprehensive ABA program, also known as Intensive Behavioural Intervention (IBI), is a specialized, evidence-based approach. It is often associated with autism, but it is also effective for children with various needs or neurodiverse needs. It follows the science and principles of applied behaviour analysis, ensuring that goals are taught systematically and its effectiveness is backed by research. 

A comprehensive program is understood as a program that addresses multiple goal areas simultaneously rather than focusing on a single skill or behavior. It provides highly structured, individualized therapy and is prescribed at 20-30 hours per week. Through one-on-one sessions, children receive consistent support and practice in areas like language, functional communication (such as asking for help or expressing needs), play, social skills, school readiness, academic skills and developing emotional regulation skills (like managing frustration or anxiety). 

• An assessment and service plan that is overseen by the Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA).
• A treatment plan that is led by children and families to develop meaningful goals.
• Therapy/intervention by staff where services best meet the clients needs, either at our centre, school, daycare or home.
• Parent coaching and training to aid in the transfer of skills.
• Collaboration with all community partners involved with the client and family (preschool, school, community).

In most cases, with consultation from the parent, the Registered Behaviour Analyst and a team of Supervised Behaviour Therapists complete an assessment and develop an individualized program plan for each child. Goals are family-led and tailored to meet each child’s unique needs.

Supervised Behaviour Therapists, who are skilled professionals with ABA training, implement the program on a daily basis.

At Creative Therapy, all Supervised Behaviour Therapists are required to complete a designated Registered Behavioural Technician course, pass a competency assessment, and take an in-centre exam to ensure a high standard of service. Additionally, Supervised Behaviour Therapists receive ongoing coaching and supervision from the Registered Behaviour Analyst overseeing them to maintain treatment fidelity.

Our Clinical Supervisors are required to oversee 10%-20% of interactions with children and their families, providing Supervised Behaviour Therapists with coaching and feedback. Clinical supervision may be increased based on the goals and needs of each individual child.