Kathryn Kellas, Founder
BCaBA
kkellas@progressive-aba.org
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the study of the functional relationship between the child’s behavior and their environment. Data is collected on the stimuli that elicits, increases, decreases, or maintains the child’s behavior. “Behavior” is defined as anything your child does or says. The data collected is analyzed and used to decrease your child’s maladaptive behavior, while simultaneously increasing his/her adaptive behavior for optimal treatment effectiveness.
ABA treatment is the only treatment endorsed by the U.S. Surgeon General
as an effective treatment for autism. “Evidence based” implies ABA has
passed scientific tests of usefulness, quality, and effectiveness.
Starting intensive ABA treatment at an early age is crucial for skill
acquisition and development in all areas of functional independence,
including social awareness, improved communication, play, academic acquisition, and daily living skills.
Studies have shown children who receive a minimum of 30 hours a week of
intensive ABA treatment show greater improvements in skill acquisition and
functional development in all areas when compared to similar children who
do not participate in intensive ABA treatment. Parents and families who
participate in ABA treatment report less familial stress and an overall
improvement in quality of life for their child and the family.
Early intervention is most significant for effective treatment and clinic-based services offers significant advantages.
Clinic-based treatment offers consistent input from a multi-disciplinary team. Assessments are performed to create a highly individualized Treatment Plan for your child.
ABA treatment includes individualized one-on-one instruction and group instruction to enhance socialization.
All our ABA treatment providers receive ongoing training, and are fully licensed with the BACB and Virginia Board of Medicine.
ABA treatment progress is monitored via data and graphs daily, weekly, monthly and every 3 - 6 months or as required by your insurance carrier.
ABA treatment targets critical communication skills, but we wish to enrich treatment with licensed ST providers. Contact us if you are interested in joining the team.
ABA treatment targets crucial life skills, but we wish to provide a multi-disciplinary approach to include licensed OT providers. Contact us to inquire about this position.
We intersperse sensory breaks during ABA treatment, provide sensory enriched activities to replace self-stimulatory (automatic) behavior, and use desensitization for hypo-sensory deficits.
We have experience in technology addiction, leisure and time management, motor planning, PECS (picture exchange communication system), and eating disorders.
kkellas@progressive-aba.org
mdonnell@progressive-aba.org
jsmith@progressive-aba.org