At Pathways to Hope, we have a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) and an ABA therapist who can work with you and your child using either:

1. a 1:1 therapy model where your child works directly with the practitioner, or
2. a consultation model where the practitioner works with the caregiver to implement behaviour strategies in the home setting.

Behavioural therapy focuses on positive, meaningful behaviour change. This may include your child learning social skills, language and communication, routines, academics, self-help skills, and more. It may also include decreasing harmful or unsafe behaviours, often by replacing these with alternative, positive behaviours. At Pathways to Hope, our behavioural therapists use principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA).

ABA is a research-backed methodology for understanding behaviour (the skills and actions needed to live, play, work, talk, etc.). ABA is used to increase positive behaviour, learn new skills, and essentially help individuals and their families live their best lives. Typically, a goal/new skill will be broken down into smaller steps, which will gradually be worked on until the end goal is met.

Research shows that consistent ABA can significantly improve behaviours and skills and reduce the need for special services (Reichow, 2013). ABA has been endorsed by multiple agencies around the world including the U.S Surgeon General, the American Academy of Paediatrics, and the National Insititue of Mental Health (BCBC, 2022).

This varies depending on the child’s needs. Typically, the behavioural therapist and team working with your child will evaluate your child’s needs on an ongoing basis. Overall, the goal is to help you and your child be equipped and empowered so that intervention is no longer required. 

Although ABA is most often used for helping children with autism, there are many other applications of it! It’s also used in areas such as parenting, education, traumatic brain injury, mental health, sports, and workplace performance. 

At Pathways to Hope, either a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA), or an ABA therapist will work with you and your child. A BCBA is an individual with expertise in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). BCBA’s are required to hold a Masters in ABA, psychology, or education, complete 1500 hours of supervised fieldwork in an ANA program, and sit for a board exam. 

Your behavioural therapist will assess your child’s needs and create an individualized plan. Goals may range from pre-academic and visual responding skills to self-help or emotional regulation skills. You (the caregiver) will be involved in your child’s goal planning and progress.