ABA is the scientific study of behaviour that focuses on identifying the environmental variables that influence and maintain behaviour and applying these principles to change behaviour of social significance. The principles of ABA are essential in the treatment of autism, but what people might not know is that ABA is used beyond the autism population in fields such as; organizational behaviour management, marketing, education, sports, and addictions, to name a few.

Practitioners utilize the principles of applied behaviour analysis to develop individualized intervention plans for the children in their care. These principles are used to increase and strengthen targeted skills and decrease challenging behaviours. The use of ABA with individuals with autism is an evidence-based practice with an emphasis on positive reinforcement.

Yes. Provincial funding is provided through the Ontario Autism Program (OAP). Children and youth who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by a qualified professional are eligible for the program. Children receive services and support until the age of 18. For more information or to register your child, visit: https://accessoap.ca

A Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA®) is a professional credential. A BCBA requires a minimum of a Master’s Degree in behaviour analysis or a related field, which must include specific coursework. Candidates must apply and be approved to write the BCBA exam. Once certified, the BCBA must maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every year. For more information, visit: www.bacb.com

Previously, a child’s ABA program had to be supervised by a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) to be eligible for provincial funding. On July 1st, 2024, ABA became a regulated profession in Ontario, and the credential of a Behaviour Analyst became a protected title. Anyone using the protected title of Behaviour Analyst must be registered as a Behaviour Analyst with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario. The credential is written as R.B.A (Ont.). Whether a family is receiving provincial funding or still waiting, this should be a standard that parents require of their chosen service provider.

To search the list of OAP-approved service providers, visit: https://www.oapproviderlist.ca

Yes! ABA is a scientific approach and, therefore, should be data-driven. At Reaching Beyond, our programs incorporate several different data collection systems depending on the goal of each program. Reliable data provides valuable information on whether a skill is being acquired and when revisions are needed. Instructor Therapists are trained on the importance of data collection and how to record valuable, consistent, and dependable data.

Yes! The reasons for challenging behaviour vary from child to child and can, at times, be very complex. It is essential that the reasons for the behaviour are first identified, after which strategies can be determined and implemented. Depending on the nature of the behaviour, a clinician may conduct a Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) to help guide the development of an appropriate behaviour intervention protocol.