Children's Health

Pediatric ABA Therapy

Pediatric ABA therapy helps children build communication, social and daily living skills while reducing challenging behaviors, using individualized, evidence-based strategies tailored to each child's needs.

At TidalHealth, ABA therapy is an evidence-based service designed to help children develop social, communication, adaptive, and daily living skills while reducing behaviors that interfere with learning or safety. Our approach uses careful observation, data collection, and individualized teaching strategies to support meaningful, practical skill development.

Who Benefits from ABA
ABA is commonly recommended for children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental or behavioral needs. Therapy focuses on:

  • Increasing skills such as language, play, self-care, and social interaction
  • Reducing challenging behaviors like aggression, self-injury, or severe tantrums
  • Supporting participation at home, school, and in the community

Providers and Team Approach

  • Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): Leads assessment and treatment planning
  • Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs): Provide direct therapy under BCBA supervision
  • Family and Caregivers: Integral partners in reinforcing learning and supporting behavior at home
    Other specialists like speech or occupational therapists may also collaborate as needed.

Assessment and Therapy

  1. Comprehensive Assessment: Evaluates skills, communication, medical history, and behaviors
  2. Individualized Goals: Clear, measurable targets are set based on assessment results
  3. Therapy Methods:
    • Discrete trial teaching
    • Natural environment teaching
    • Play-based learning
    • Caregiver coaching and involvement
      Sessions may occur in-clinic, at home, in school, or via telehealth. Activities are age-appropriate, motivating, and gradually increase in complexity with positive reinforcement.

Frequency and Monitoring

  • Session frequency depends on the child’s needs and family goals
  • Programs range from a few hours per week to intensive schedules (20–40 hours/week)
  • Progress is monitored through data collection each session, with adjustments made as needed

Family Involvement
Parent and caregiver training is central to ABA therapy. Families learn strategies to reinforce skills at home and support positive behavior.

Safety, Ethics, and Respect

  • Evidence-based interventions that respect the child’s dignity and choices
  • Least restrictive, most effective strategies
  • Focused on meaningful skill development and quality of life

Progress Over Time

  • Small improvements may be seen within a few weeks
  • More noticeable skill gains typically occur over several months
  • ABA often forms part of a long-term plan that evolves as the child grows

What is ABA and how does it help my child?
ABA breaks skills into teachable steps, reinforces positive behaviors, and reduces behaviors that interfere with learning. Focus is on communication, self-care, play, and social skills.

Who works with my child?
BCBAs oversee treatment planning. RBTs provide direct therapy. Additional specialists may be included depending on needs.

How long before we see progress?
Some changes may appear within weeks. Significant skill gains usually emerge over months, depending on therapy intensity, family involvement, and starting abilities.

Is ABA appropriate for very young children?
Yes. Early intervention can improve outcomes and support foundational skill development.

Will ABA make my child robotic?
No. Modern ABA respects each child’s individuality and focuses on meaningful skill growth and independence.

Do parents need to be involved?
Yes. Family involvement is essential for lasting progress.

How is progress measured?
BCBAs track measurable goals and review data regularly. Families receive progress reports and are part of decision-making.

Is ABA covered by insurance?
Coverage varies. Many plans cover ABA for autism when medically necessary. TidalHealth staff can help verify benefits and authorization requirements.

Can ABA be provided in school or via telehealth?
Yes. Therapy can occur in multiple settings depending on the child’s needs, with coordination between providers.

How do we know when to transition or discontinue services?
Transitions are based on goal achievement, skill generalization, and evolving needs, with BCBA guidance to ensure continuity and success.