Let’s talk about common misconceptions about ABA Therapy in the UK
Have you been considering ABA for your child but feel uncertain whether it is right for them? Let’s go over some of the misconceptions about ABA so that you can know what you and your child can expect.
‘ABA therapy is trying to cure Autism’
We don’t believe autism is anything to be cured from instead ABA therapy aims to provide individuals with autism the tools and support they need to enhance their quality of life, develop essential skills, and reach their fullest potential while embracing their unique strengths and characteristics.
‘The only people that can receive ABA therapy are those with an autism diagnosis’
You do not need any kind of diagnosis for your child for them to start ABA therapy. Many individuals of varying ages with a wide variety of educational needs access ABA services. ABA is present in numerous settings including but not limited to; hospitals, social care, correctional facilities, rehabilitation centres, corporate workplaces, sports and many more.
‘ABA ignores how the child feels’
Considering how the child feels, both emotionally and physically, as an integral part of the assessment and intervention process. Understanding and addressing a child/ young persons, emotional state is essential for effective ABA therapy.
‘ABA Tutors are not adequately trained/ qualified’
All of our tutors work with consultants who are all BCBA trained. We don’t allow tutors to work with clients unless they are being managed and trained by these consultants.
‘All ABA programs are the same which isn’t helpful because not all children with autism are the same’
Absolutely. Every person with autism is an individual. That's why every ABA programme that we run is adjusted to specifically cater to your child. We begin every programme with multiple assessments so that we can understand exactly what would benefit your child/individual. We keep you involved in each stage of a process, so that you can let us understand your perspective of things, and how you feel your child is responding to the programme.
‘ABA therapists lack empathy’
ABA practitioners are trained to build rapport, create a positive therapeutic relationship, and show empathy. Our first and most important step is pairing sessions where the child/young person can have positive interactions with the ABA therapist.
‘ABA therapists only care about data’
While data collection is essential to make sound decisions which will be the most beneficial for the individual's success. ABA practitioners also care about the individual's well-being and progress.
‘ABA is in opposition to other therapies’
ABA can be used alongside other therapies, and collaboration among professionals is encouraged. We promote and encourage a multidisciplinary approach with speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, educational psychologists and many other professionals.
‘ABA is a quick fix’
ABA is often a long-term, ongoing process that requires consistency and effort. Our aim is to provide sustainable approaches and strategies that can help develop their academic, social, emotional, psychological and physical needs.
‘ABA only addresses problem behaviours’
ABA also targets skill acquisition, communication, and independence. It promotes positive behaviours as well as addressing challenging behaviours.
We hope that we have cleared up some of the misconceptions around ABA but if you still wish to discuss more, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can email us at shanay.nj@headstartaba.org