Skill Assessments:
Standardized tests are used to evaluate numerous functioning levels of the child. The assessments include social skills, fine and gross motor skills, language and communication, receptive understanding, visual performance, labeling, play skills, dressing and grooming skills. After an assessment, a summary report is written by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and reviewed with
the family, and recommendations of services are made. Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) and Treatment:
This is a process designed for individuals who have behaviors that are interfering with everyday tasks or learning, or are causing harm to themselves or others. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst will do an assessment of the behavior through parent/caregiver interviews, direct observations and data collection. The assessment may take a few days up to a few weeks depending on the individual and the specific behavior. Problem behaviors may include verbal outbursts, non-compliance, property destruction, self-injury, and physical aggression. Following the assessment and data collection, a summary report is completed and reviewed with the family. Behavior strategies are written, implemented and taught to caregivers while the behavior continues to be monitored. Direct ABA Services:
Ongoing one-on-one therapy sessions using a combination of teaching strategies. Each individual’s curriculum and programs are tailored to their individual needs and skill set. Positive reinforcement is used during sessions to increase desirable behaviors, and data based decision making is used to measure new skills and problem behavior reduction. Sessions may vary in length, requiring a 2 hour minimum with Cox Behavioral Services, Inc. Behavior Plan:
This is a document created by the Board Certified Behavior Analyst following a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA). It includes strategies to reduce problem behaviors while increasing new appropriate skills. The document is individualized and spells out what the specific behaviors are, and the steps to take (including what to do or say) to deal with them. Parent Training:
It is essential to teach procedures to a child’s caregiver or family outside of the child’s ABA sessions. Techniques for increasing new skills will work best if everyone involved is on board and using the same strategies. Families are trained on Behavior Plans for challenging behaviors, and will be guided through the actions to take and words to say in each situation.
