Understanding and knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have grown exponentially in the past few decades. Autism is being recognized and treated with ever-improving approaches that bring out the best in children with the disorder. With the CDC estimating that 1 in 44 children will receive a diagnosis of autism at some point in their childhood, the increased focus on how to best care for those with autism could not come at a better time. ASD is a disorder that lasts throughout the lifetime, making early detection and the therapy and care children receive early on significantly important.
ABA Centers of America has emerged as a disruptive force in the ASD treatment space. A unique business model highlighted through a blending of an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) treatment approach, focus on the continuum of care, and an in-house training academy for certified caregivers has elevated the autism care model overall.
Meeting those with autism where they are
“Autism is a group of developmental disabilities that result in social interaction, verbal communication, and behavioral challenges,” explains Christopher Barnett, CEO of ABA Centers of America. Autism exists on a spectrum, and it can encompass several behaviors and markers. This wide range of behaviors associated with autism can make a diagnosis and proper treatment challenging. Nevertheless, it’s a challenge that ABA Centers of America face head-on with evidence-based treatment and one-on-one therapy that meets the needs of patients, no matter where they may fall on the autism spectrum.
“Our treatment center uses the latest proven advances in behavioral therapies to assess a client’s functionality, analyze data, and then create individualized action plans,” says Barnett. “We don’t engage in ‘aversion therapies’ that focus on negative reinforcement. Rather, ABA Centers work patiently with all clients and their families using play-based techniques to reach agreed-upon goals.”
Decades after its introduction, applied behavior therapy has become generally recognized as a best-in-class treatment for ASD. Based on the science behind learning and behavior, applied behavior analysis (ABA) delves into how behavior works and how the environment affects the behavior of those with autism. Outcomes have been overwhelmingly positive, with families of children with autism able to access highly trained therapists and reach treatment goals faster and more effectively. A recent client’s family was able to transition their 12-year-old with autism out of diapers in just a few months of treatment. Other families have been able to get a better understanding of their child’s abilities and needs through ABA. The goal of ABA is to increase helpful or positive behaviors and decrease potentially harmful behaviors or those that disrupt learning.
“Our goal is to understand your child’s strengths and challenges with early intervention and help make meaningful, lasting changes in your child’s life,” says Barnett.
Cutting-edge training
One of the main factors setting ABA Centers of America apart from their peers in the autism therapy space is their extensive, in-house training program: the ABA Academy of Excellence. Not only does the program provide in-depth training on ABA-specific techniques, but the efficiency helps expedite the staffing process. This expedited process allows the ABA Centers of America to get treatment to people in need in a fraction of the time of the national average, where clients often languish on years-long waiting lists.
Graduates of the ABA Academy of Excellence boast a higher-than-industry pass rate. ABA Centers of America have invested heavily in the latest technology, including AI and proprietary data collection and reporting software. Their trained therapists are some of the highest paid in the industry and have access to a first-of-its-kind BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) Apprentice Program that allows for development ladders, setting a clear career path, and career opportunities.
In addition, through a joint program with Temple University’s remote learning program, ABA Centers of America pays for its employees to complete the master’s level education necessary to become a BCBA. This high level of support and direction given to their employees directly correlates to the satisfaction of care from the client.
A new approach flourishes
ABA Centers of America have made tremendous strides in the autism therapy space. Their full continuum of care follows their patients from assessment to eventual outcome, creating relationships that support as well as a treat.
The approach embraced by ABA Centers of America has proven that fostering a growth mindset for employees and bringing the best in proven therapy and support to their clients can truly disrupt an industry.
