What Is Applied Behavior Analysis?
ABA is the science of understanding behavior and learning. At its core, ABA looks at why a behavior happens and how to increase helpful behaviors while reducing those that may be harmful or interfere with learning.
In an ABA program, we:
Assess each child’s strengths and needs
Set individualized goals based on what’s most meaningful for the child and family
Use positive reinforcement to teach new skills
Track progress using data, and make changes when needed
ABA can help children:
Learn to communicate wants and needs
Build social skills and friendships
Improve attention and following directions
Gain independence in daily tasks (e.g., brushing teeth, getting dressed)
Let’s Talk About the Controversy
Like many fields that have been around for decades, ABA has evolved significantly since its early days. Some criticisms of ABA stem from practices used in the past, particularly in the 1960s–1980s, which sometimes relied heavily on repetition, rigid drills, and consequences that didn’t always consider the child’s emotional experience.
Some adults who received early forms of ABA report feeling like their behavior was controlled, rather than supported. These stories are important, and they have fueled vital conversations and improvements in the field.
How ABA Has Grown and Changed
Today’s ABA is not a one-size-fits-all approach. At Adaptive Brain Academy and many modern ABA programs, here’s what sets current practice apart:
Child-Led Goals: We focus on what matters most to the child and family, not on “making kids look typical.”
Naturalistic Teaching: We embed learning into play and daily routines, so skills are learned in meaningful, fun, and functional ways, which leads to better acquisition and generalization.
Compassionate Care: We emphasize relationship-building, consent, and respecting each child. Our therapeutic approach is collaborative, where therapy is not something done to a child, but with them.
Neurodiversity Affirming Practices: We support the individual child. We work alongside families to help children thrive.
What ABA Looks Like at Adaptive Brain Academy
Our therapists are trained in current evidence-based applied behavior analysis practices, with an emphasis on empathy and meaningful progress. We believe:
Every child deserves respect and autonomy
Learning should feel empowering, not overwhelming
Families are essential partners in the process
We partner with parents every step of the way, offering support, coaching, and transparency. We also continuously seek feedback and adapt our methods based on your child’s unique needs and preferences.
ABA is a powerful tool—but like any tool, it’s all about how it’s used. At Adaptive Brain Academy, we use ABA to celebrate children’s strengths, support their challenges with compassion, and build the skills that matter most for their futures.
If you have questions or concerns about ABA, we welcome them. Let’s have an open, honest conversation about what’s right for your family.
