Applied Behavior Analysis
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific, evidence-based method that aims to understand and improve behaviors that matter to people. ABA studies how people and their environment interact and how the environment influences a person’s behavior (the reason behind a behavior). Behavior Analysts assess a person’s behavior, set realistic goals, and measure progress. At Agape ABA Services, we use ABA to teach new skills, boost performance in different areas, and reduce unwanted and challenging behaviors.
What do we focus on in ABA Therapy?
-
Teach new skills, such as communication, social, play, self-help, and independent living skills.
-
Transfer skills to different environments (e.g., from ABA center to home, school and community)
-
Replace unwanted behavior with socially appropriate behavior (e.g., hitting, eloping, property destruction, tantrum).
Socially Significant Behaviors
Everything we do is a behavior, but some behaviors are more important and beneficial than others. Socially significant behaviors are those that have a meaningful impact on the independence, autonomy, and quality of life for the individuals with disabilities and their families. These behaviors are valued by both the individual and their individual community, helping to achieve personal goals and needs while ensuring a support network.
​
Signification Focus Areas:
​
-
Legal Trouble: ​​Behaviors like theft or fire starting.
-
Physical Harm: Behaviors that can cause injuries or death.
-
Learning Disruption: Behaviors that prevent learning, such as screaming during lessons.
-
Independence: Behaviors that impede independence due to physical or mental disabilities.
-
Social Relationships: Behaviors that interfere with positive and safe pro-social interactions and relationships
​We focus on changing behaviors that are harmful or disruptive, not just annoying, meaning we train engagement not eye contact. Clients are people first and need to grow and explore their environments safely and respectfully. Our goal is to shape behavior over time, allowing individuals to be themselves while achieving optimal behavior levels based on their environment.
Multi-tiered Approach
Agape utilizes a clinical version of the multi-tiered approach. Think of it as a well-oiled machine where everyone has a crucial role. We have done away with lanes and silos, and created a field we are working together in to promote our clients, families, and teams success.
​
We structure our roles, teams, and organization, with one goal in mind, the trainer of trainers model. No one is as smart as the room, so we bring the room to the conversation. The tiered support structure for training, implementation, and intake, ensure that we have a cross trained team ready to take on any challenge. Additionally, this ensures that we are able to staff consistently and provide growth opportunities to staff. ​
​​Our tiered trainer of trainers support model, goes from individuals to teams to make sure that there is someone to support every member of the community. The saying goes "its takes a village to raise a child" and to support a child, means supporting their community.
Our Clinical Director is at the helm, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Case Managers are the backbone, managing client cases and making sure plans are implemented effectively. Clinical Supervisors, Senior Behavior Technicians (SBTs), and Behavior Technicians (BTs) work together to provide hands-on support and guidance to our clients.
​
We also have a dynamic teams that keep everything humming. With continuous training, clear communication, and a collaborative approach, our multitiered support system ensures a comprehensive, client-centered, and community-supported experience.
​
This system allows us to ensure high quality, individual led, and community informed programs.