Common Misconceptions About Behaviour Therapists: What You Should Know

Due to a limited understanding of ABA, behaviour therapy and its approaches, there are sometimes misconceptions about behaviour therapists themselves. Let's discuss some of the misunderstandings. 

1. Behaviour therapists only focus on problem behaviours.

One misconception is that behaviour therapists only work to stop or reduce undesired behaviours. However, their role goes beyond this. They also help people build positive skills such as communication, social interaction and independence by reinforcing desired behaviours, along with teaching new, adaptive skills.

2. ABA therapy is the same for everyone.
Some believe that ABA therapy follows a one-size-fits-all approach. In fact, behaviour therapy is highly individualised. Therapists tailor treatment plans to the specific needs, challenges and strengths of each person, ensuring that the therapy is flexible and effective for them.

3. Behaviour therapists don't consider emotions or underlying causes.
There’s a misconception that behaviour therapists only focus on observable behaviours, ignoring emotions or other factors. In truth, they recognise that emotions and the effects of the environment (the things around us) play a significant role in behaviour. Many behaviour therapists work closely with other professionals - such as occupational therapists and psychologists - to ensure that daily living skills, emotional needs and behavioural aspects are all addressed for a holistic approach to care.

If you would like to find out more about what our behaviour therapists do and how they may be able to help your child, please do get in touch by emailing us at shanay.nj@headstartabba.org. We are always here to help.

At HeadStart we understand the importance of providing information in accessible formats to meet the diverse needs of our service users. We can provide information in different forms for example in another language, large print, easy-read materials, and technologies such as text-to-speech or audio. To request information in another format, contact us by phone or email shanay.nj@headstartaba.org or mobile 07946498499.