WHAT IS ABA? THINGS TO CONSIDER IN ABA

Behavior change occurs over time and through consistent practice (and LOTS of encouragement!).  When you start ABA therapy for autism, be prepared for a commitment.  Behavior change takes time - but it's well worth it!

ABA Therapy is considered to be a much more intensive treatment option.  Unlike Speech or Occupational therapy, our field may have treatment recommendations that can range from 6-40 hours per week.  At Juniper Health & Wellness, our recommendations generally range from 10-15 hours per week.  We do this because we also rely on parent involvement; learning doesn't stop when the session is over.  The most powerful learning moments are in real life scenarios.  Although our learners are not attending therapy for long hours, they still make the same or better progress  - we credit this to skilled behavior techs, team communication, and ongoing supervision.  It also allow plenty of time for kids to be kids!  Although research supports increased hours, we do not support this model.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the use of behavior principles to teach skills and positive behavior changes that will improve an individual's overall quality of life.  We strive to teach individuals to be more independent so that they can reach their fullest potential.  We focus on using aba therapy to teach skills that are important to the learner - and not for the convenience of everyone around them - these are the skills that will be life-changing & the skills that will stick.

While many families often seek ABA therapy, many do not know what it is.  Any quick search on the internet will draw both negative and positive remarks.  Don't be intimidated.  It's important to know that ABA is a healthcare service that is continually evolving and improving --  you have control over the procedures, techniques, and strategies that are used.  Expect the Behavior Analyst to explain the procedures and give you the pros/cons to utilizing specific methods. At Juniper Health & Wellness, we are sensitive to the issues surrounding neuro-diversity and have become highly skilled at balancing family needs while also helping the children in making meaningful progress.  Finding the right fit for your family is critical. 

Becoming a BCBA is not an easy or quick task!  It requires a masters degree in addition to graduate training in ABA, 2000 hours in supervised field work, and (finally) the ability to pass a board certification exam.  Juniper Health & Wellness is proud to support the growth and education in the field of ABA therapy in Killeen.  ​At this time, we do offer limited opportunities for supervision of those pursuing certification.

To learn more about the credential, please visit the BACB.  

ABA therapy is not a one size fits all - there are many different approaches and many different strategies.  Find an agency that reflects what will work best for your family and, most of all, your learner.   Our agency is based in compassionate care and a trauma-informed treatment model.  

To get started, we'll confirm eligibility and benefits with your insurance payor.  Here, we'll gather basic information, insurance card copies, and copies of diagnostic reports.  Once approved, we'll move forward with the assessment.  It is our goal to have every new learner up and running within 1 month of initial inquiry!