At Sunshine ABA Therapy, we know that seeking support for your child with autism or developmental delays is an important step. One of the most widely recognized and evidence-based approaches available is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. But while ABA is highly effective, it's important to understand that this therapy is not one-size-fits-all.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through what ABA is, how service recommendations are determined, and what your rights are as a parent or caregiver. Including what to expect when it’s time for your child to “graduate” from services.
What is ABA Therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a science-backed approach designed to teach meaningful skills, reduce challenging behaviors, and help individuals gain independence in their daily lives. It uses the principles of learning and behavior to bring about positive change in areas like communication, social interaction, daily living skills, and more.
ABA is most commonly used to support children and adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but it can also benefit individuals with other developmental disorders, or no disorder at all. Applied Behavioral Analysis is for everyone and the best trained parents have an understanding of behavioral techniques that are learned in ABA therapy.
Service Recommendations: Why They Vary
You may have heard that some physicians recommend 30 to 40 hours per week of ABA therapy as a standard. While this is sometimes appropriate, especially for young children with more intensive needs, it's not the right fit for every child. ABA therapy is not a one size fits all treatment. Treatment is individualized and treatment hours are recommended based on the child’s age, developmental level, skill deficits, and family goals. Some children may benefit from 10–20 hours per week (focused ABA) if their needs are more targeted. Others, especially younger children with more significant delays, may be recommended for 30–40 hours per week (comprehensive ABA).
At Sunshine ABA Therapy, we believe in individualized care. Our Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) or their Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBAs) conduct comprehensive assessments, parent interviews and use this information to evaluate your child’s unique strengths, needs, and goals. They then use clinical expertise and data to recommend a customized treatment plan.
For some children, fewer hours may be more effective, especially when targeting specific skills (focused ABA) or when therapy is being integrated with school or other activities. Our focus is on quality and impact, not just quantity of hours.
Your Rights as a Parent or Caregiver
As a parent or guardian, you have the right to make informed decisions about your child’s care. If you're ever uncomfortable with the recommended number of therapy hours or if the services offered do not align with your family’s values or needs, you can:
- Discuss your concerns with your BCBA or BCaBA and together work towards a family focused, client centered treatment plan.
- Decline the recommended services
ABA therapy should be a collaborative effort, and your voice matters every step of the way.
The Goal: Graduation, Not Lifelong Therapy
One of the most positive aspects of ABA therapy is that it is not meant to be lifelong treatment by a professional, instead the skills learned in ABA therapy will become a way of life. While in treatment, parent training is essential and will lead to more positive outcomes once the therapy session has ended.
As your child builds skills and meets developmental milestones, your BCBA/BCaBA will guide you through the process of gradually reducing services. This process is carefully planned, based on data and progress, and always includes your input. Remember, ABA aims to empower parents and caregivers with strategies so that skills generalize beyond therapy sessions can continue for a lifetime. The ultimate measure of success is whether the child (or individual) can use learned skills naturally at home, school, and in the community.
True independence for a family is achieved when ABA therapy administered by a professional is no longer needed. We want all of our families to achieve this goal.
