APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS
Which Is Best for My Child:
ABA Therapy in the Home
or Clinical Setting?
By Vanessa BEIBIDE-ZANETICH, MA, SpEd, BCBA
When not fully understood, applied behavior analysis (ABA) may seem like an over-
whelming treatment option for children diagnosed with autism. Many people are
unsure what ABA is, what it can do, and why it is used. Simply put, ABA is a science that
uses reinforcement strategies to increase or decrease socially significant behavior.
B
ased on empirically validated learning princi-
ples, ABA is widely used, not only for adults
and children diagnosed with autism or in-
tellectual disabilities, but also with parent
training for neurotypical children, substance
abuse, dementia care management, trau-
matic brain injury, business management,
and a host of other things.
The rise of autism has become a prevalent health cri-
sis in this country. ABA has become one of the most
62 | Autism Parenting Magazine | Issue 87
scientifically studied treatment approaches for chil-
dren and adults with autism. It has developed into
such an important treatment option that 48 states
have taken government action to cover ABA thera-
peutic costs (Health Insurance Coverage, 2018).
Now that ABA funding is being covered by most in-
surance plans, parents have treatment options. These
options can include ABA home servicing programs
delivered within the home or approaches delivered
outside the home within clinical settings.