Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy in Tulsa

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a research-backed approach, recognized as the gold standard for helping individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While ABA is most commonly used for autism, its behavioral principles apply to a wide range of needs. The goal is to increase positive behaviors and reduce challenging ones by adjusting the environment and reinforcement strategies that influence them.

ABA is built on scientific research, dating back to B.F. Skinner’s work in operant conditioning and later refined by Dr. Ivar Lovaas in 1987 for children with autism. A key component of ABA is identifying the function of behavior—understanding why an individual acts a certain way. Most behaviors occur to gain something (attention, toys, activities) or to avoid something (tasks, discomfort, unwanted situations).

ABA classifies behaviors into four main functions:
✔ Positive reinforcement: adding something desirable (praise, rewards) to encourage behavior
✔ Negative reinforcement: removing something unpleasant (a difficult task) to encourage behavior
✔ Positive punishment: adding something (extra work) to discourage behavior
✔ Negative punishment: taking something away (loss of privileges) to discourage behavior

By using these principles, ABA therapy helps individuals develop life skills, gain independence, and communicate their needs in a more effective, positive way.

By identifying the function behind a behavior, we can teach alternative, positive behaviors that achieve the same outcome.

We begin with a behavioral assessment to understand what triggers and reinforces challenging behaviors. From there, we create a personalized plan to replace those behaviors with more appropriate, effective strategies—helping each child communicate and interact in a healthier way.

During a behavior assessment, we ask key questions to determine what influences a child’s actions:

What does the behavior look like?
How often does it happen?
Are there specific triggers that make it more or less likely?
What occurs immediately before the behavior?
What follows right after?

The responses help us determine the function of the behavior and develop strategies that will lead to decreasing the occurrence of the behavior in the future. The behavior assessment can also help identify areas in which the child may need some extra help. Some of the skill acquisition areas we may focus on include, but are not limited to, social skills, communication, reading, and academics, as well as adaptive learning skills such as fine motor dexterity, hygiene, grooming, eating, domestic capabilities, and self-regulation.

After the behavioral assessment, a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) designs an individualized plan for the child. This plan focuses on reducing specific behaviors, introducing functional alternatives, and promoting skill acquisition. The BCBA applies scientifically proven interventions, such as breaking down tasks into manageable steps and using reinforcement systems that are effective. Each intervention is personalized to the child’s needs, ensuring the best outcomes.

The targeted behaviors are selected with the child’s best interests in mind, and the plan is adjusted as needed. Caregivers, including parents and staff, are trained on the plan and maintain ongoing contact with the BCBA. Every six months, the BCBA reviews the plan to ensure the most effective strategies are being used. This includes caregiver interviews, direct observations, and a thorough review of progress documentation to determine if adjustments are necessary.

Consistent ABA therapy can significantly improve behaviors and skills, often reducing the need for additional services. When implemented well, ABA therapy provides a fun, engaging experience that helps the child thrive and enhances their overall quality of life.

Understanding ABA Therapy

During a behavior assessment, we ask key questions to determine what influences a child’s actions: