By: Cristina Martínez
M.B.A, M.S, BCBA, LBA
Coauthor: Ariadna Martin,
MS
Therapy at home or at the center?
In this space we usually discuss elements of importance to our clients, their families and the professionals at American Behavioral Solutions, from the perspective of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Today, and within the ABA universe, we are interested in addressing the issue of two main settings where this therapy is commonly utilized, as well as its specificities:
The Client’s House
This is a crucial environment for implementing ABA because it allows for interventions to occur in a naturalistic and familiar context. This can enhance the generalization of skills and behaviors, making it more likely that positive changes will be maintained over time.
ABA interventions are usually integrated into everyday routines and activities, helping individuals learn new skills in the environments where they will most likely use them. Also, therapists or caregivers take advantage of naturally occurring opportunities for teach and reinforce skills, such as during meal times, play, or household chores.
On the other hand, the home environment facilitates the training of parents and caregivers in ABA techniques and principles, enabling them to consistently apply interventions throughout the day. Professionals and parents work closely to set goals, track progress, and adjust strategies as needed. This regular communication ensures that everyone is aligned in supporting the individual's development.
The constraints of this setting are that it brings together a group of distractions that can undermine the consistency of the therapy, while having limited resources.
Therapy Centers
Therapy centers offer a controlled environment, minimizing distractions and providing a consistent space for learning. They are equipped with various teaching materials, tools, and technologies to support a wide range of ABA interventions, including visual aids, communication devices, and sensory tools, not typically available in-home settings.
As a fundamental element, centers provide opportunities for clients to interact with peers, practice social skills, and engage in group activities under the guidance of therapists and analysts. Specific group activities may be organized to target social communication, play skills, and cooperative behaviors.
The limitations of such settings are associated with less family involvement, are often distant from the client's home and, as mentioned above, are less natural.
The best setting
The choice of the most favorable environment depends on many factors and often depends on the individual needs of the child and family. Some clients may benefit from the structure and resources of a therapy center, while others may find the convenience and personal relevance of in-home therapy to be more effective. Also, many clients may start with one setting and may transition to the other based on their experiences and evolving needs, as both settings can even be combined.
However, from our experience, we feel it is important to emphasize the importance of understanding that in no case does the therapy center function as a care center, but rather as a space that can be important for the client to thrive and make meaningful progress, when required.
On the other hand, the natural environment that constitutes the client's home, allows for therapy to address specific issues or routines relevant to the child's daily life, actively involving caregivers while also helping generalize skills to real-life situations.
Based on the assessments, ABA strategies and techniques, data measures and ongoing evaluations, the behavior analyst conducts a collaborative decision-making process, along with the family, to determine the best ABA therapy setting. In the end, every decision will seek to create meaningful and long-lasting changes in the individual’s behavior and quality of life: That´s the true guide of every therapeutic process and every decision made in it.
