E4: "Okay, so WHAT IS ABA?"

In this episode, we engage in a casual conversation about the history of ABA and explore what modern ABA should look like while honoring and supporting our clients' autonomy. We discuss how to create an environment that aids the learner and moves away from potentially harmful practices, focusing on neurodiversity-affirming approaches. We also emphasize the importance of collaborating with speech therapists and other professionals to provide comprehensive support Terms to know for this episode: ABA - Applied Behavior Analysis is a scientific approach that aims to understand and improve behavior through principles of learning theory. It analyzes the relationship between behavior and the environment, using reinforcement and other techniques to increase or decrease specific behaviors. Neurodiversity-affirming ABA respects individual differences and aims to enhance quality of life by recognizing and valuing diverse ways of being. ABA therapy - Applied Behavior Analysis therapy is recommended by many providers once a child is diagnosed autistic. ABA helps people understand behaviors, teach new behaviors, and decrease harmful behaviors. ABA is criticized by advocates and argue that application of methods has caused harm, stress, anxiety, and a loss of autonomy. A notable shift is underway in the field of ABA as some providers are becoming more informed about neurodiversity. SLPA - Speech-Language Pathology Assistant, is a professional who supports speech-language pathologists. They help with tasks like therapy sessions, patient assessment, and administrative duties. SLPAs work under the supervision of licensed speech-language pathologists. RBT - Registered Behavior Technician is a paraprofessional certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) to implement behavior-analytic services under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). RBTs work directly with clients, following specific intervention plans designed by their supervisors to increase or decrease behaviors. BI - Behavioral Interventionist is a professional who works with individuals, often those with developmental disabilities or behavioral challenges, to implement behavior intervention plans and increase skill acquisition written by supervisor or BCBA. BCaBA - Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst - Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst, is a professional who works under the supervision of a BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst). Using a neurodiversity-affirming approach, they help design and implement behavior support plans that respect and celebrate individual differences. AAC - Augmentative and Alternative Communication, refers to methods and tools that help people who have difficulty speaking. This can include devices, picture boards, and sign language. AAC aids in expressing thoughts, needs, and ideas. OT - Occupational therapists help with sensory needs by using specialized techniques and activities to address sensory processing differences. OT helps people do everyday things they want or need to do, like taking care of themselves, going to school, working, or playing GLP - Gestalt language processing another way to process and interpret language. It refers to how individuals understand and use language by focusing on the bigger picture or overall meaning rather than just individual words or phrases ABC Chart - ABC (Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence) behavior chart is a tool used to understand and analyze behaviors by breaking them down into these three components Lovaas - Dr. Ivar Lovaas created ABA therapy specifically designed for young autistic children. His approach consisted of: aversion techniques, normalization focus, ethical concerns on duration of treatment (typically 20-40 hours a week). While the Lovaas method has been influential in the field of autism therapy, it is important to consider modern approaches that respect and affirm neurodiversity, promoting individualized and person-centered interventions. Enjoyed this podcast episode? Please subscribe and leave a review! Follow us on instagram: @notatigermompodcast Jenny - @msjennnys Bettina - @itsannbettina Mentioned in this episode: @hearttoheartsl & @theneurodiversitymom