What does ABA stand for?
ABA stands for Applied Behaviour Analysis (spelled “Applied Behavior Analysis” in the US).
Behaviour analysis is the science of how learning happens: what comes before a behaviour, the behaviour itself, and what happens after it. “Applied” means using that science to help with goals that matter in real life, such as asking for help, playing with a sibling, or getting through the morning routine.
How does ABA therapy work?
A good ABA program follows the same cycle for every child:
- Assess. A behaviour analyst observes the child and assesses their current skills and needs.
- Set goals with the family. Goals are specific and measurable, such as “asks for a break using words or a card instead of leaving the table”.
- Teach in small steps. Each skill is broken down and practised many times, through structured activities and through play and everyday routines.
- Reinforce success. When a child uses a skill, something they value follows, such as praise, a favourite toy, or a fun activity, which makes the skill more likely next time.
- Measure and adjust. Therapists record data every session, and the behaviour analyst changes the plan when the data shows something isn’t working.
Who can ABA therapy help?
ABA is best known as a support for autistic children, and it is one of the most widely researched approaches for autism. The same principles also help children with other developmental delays, communication difficulties, or behaviour that gets in the way of learning and family life. ABA is used with toddlers, school-age children, and teens; goals change with age, from early communication and play to independence, friendships, and coping skills.
What skills does ABA therapy teach?
- Communication: requesting, answering, following directions, and conversation, using speech, signs, pictures, or devices
- Social skills: joint attention, turn-taking, sharing, and playing with others
- Daily living: toilet training, dressing, eating, sleep routines, and hygiene
- Learning readiness: attending, imitating, and early academic skills
- Emotional regulation: coping with change, waiting, and frustration
- Safer replacements for behaviours such as aggression, self-injury, or running away
How many hours of ABA therapy does a child need?
It depends on the child’s goals; a behaviour analyst should recommend hours after an assessment.
The Council of Autism Service Providers (CASP) practice guidelines describe focused ABA, which targets a limited number of goals and is often around 10 to 25 hours a week, and comprehensive ABA, which addresses many areas of development and is often 30 to 40 hours a week. Many families start with fewer hours and increase or decrease them as goals change.
What is the difference between ABA and IBI?
IBI stands for Intensive Behavioural Intervention. It is not a different science: IBI is ABA delivered intensively, usually 20 or more hours a week, with many goals across development. Ontario’s older autism program used “IBI” for intensive programs and “ABA” for shorter, focused ones, which is why you will still see both terms. Under today’s Ontario Autism Program, both fall under applied behaviour analysis.
Is ABA therapy regulated in Ontario?
Yes. Since July 1, 2024, behaviour analysis has been a regulated health profession in Ontario. Behaviour analysts must be registered with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO) to use the title “Registered Behaviour Analyst” (RBA). Many RBAs also hold the international Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. When you choose a provider, ask who the supervising RBA is and check their registration.
What does modern, respectful ABA look like?
Some autistic adults have criticized older, highly rigid forms of ABA, and the field has changed in response. Good ABA today is play-based and individualized, respects a child’s assent and comfort, builds on their interests rather than trying to make them “look typical”, focuses on skills that improve quality of life, and treats parents as partners. These are the questions worth asking any provider, and the standards we hold ourselves to at Oakridge.
How do I start ABA therapy in Brampton?
- If you have concerns, talk to your family doctor or paediatrician about an autism or developmental assessment.
- Once you have a diagnosis, register with AccessOAP for Ontario Autism Program services.
- Book consultations with providers. Our guide on how to choose an ABA provider lists the questions to ask.
- At Oakridge, start with a free 30-minute visit.
Is ABA therapy evidence-based?
Yes. ABA is one of the most widely researched approaches for supporting autistic children and is included in the Ontario Autism Program’s core clinical services. Results vary from child to child, which is why a good program measures progress and adjusts regularly.
At what age should ABA therapy start?
Early support often has the biggest impact, and many children start ABA as toddlers or preschoolers. Older children and teens also benefit, with goals focused on independence, friendships, and coping skills.
What is the difference between an RBA and a BCBA?
An RBA (Registered Behaviour Analyst) is registered with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario, which is required to practise under that title in Ontario. A BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) is an international certification from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Many Ontario behaviour analysts hold both.