Understanding Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

What Is ABA?
Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA, is a science-based approach that helps us understand
how behavior works — why people do what they do — and how to help them learn new skills
or change challenging behaviors in positive ways. ABA uses principles/interventions derived from behavioral psychology such as positive reinforcement to help children build confidence and success.

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How It Works
ABA therapists observe and collect data to understand patterns in behavior — what happens
before, during, and after "Antecedent - Behavior - Condequence." This helps identify the purpose of a behavior and guides how we can teach more helpful ways to communicate or respond.

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What ABA Can Help With
• Improving communication and social skills
• Learning daily living skills like dressing, brushing teeth, and routines
• Reducing behaviors that interfere with learning or socializing
• Building independence and confidence

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The Big Picture
ABA is about more than behavior change — it’s about helping children reach their fullest
potential by understanding them deeply, supporting their needs, and building on their
strengths.

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There are four certification levels:

• Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)

• Board Certified assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA)  

• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

• Board Certified Behavior Analyst - Doctoral (BCBA-D)