ABA Therapy in Chattanooga, TN | Siskin Children’s Institute

ABA Therapy at Siskin Children’s Institute

Siskin Children’s Institute is a Chattanooga-based nonprofit offering diagnosis, therapy, and support services to children with special needs and their families since 1950. To better assist children with autism, we’ve added ABA therapy to our repertoire of therapeutic services, offering both center-based and in-home therapy throughout the Chattanooga area. Our team of ABA specialists, including Board-Certified Behavior Analysts and Registered Behavior Technicians, work together with the family to craft a personalized program for each child and set goals that align with the child’s unique needs and abilities.

Learn more about our ABA therapy services and how to get started. Call 888-321-0660.

Please note that Siskin’s ABA program is developed exclusively for children ages 18 months to 12 years.

What Is ABA Therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is an evidence-based approach that recognizes the diversity of autism experiences, allowing practitioners to develop customized plans that promote beneficial behaviors and deter maladaptive behaviors in children with autism and other developmental disabilities. ABA therapy can help with the following and more:

Language and communication
Social skills, such as understanding social cues
Daily life skills, such as hygiene and eating
Academic skills, such as writing or reading
Play and motor skills
Memory & focus
Organization
Behavior management
Emotion regulation

A crucial element of ABA therapy is family involvement; ABA practitioners may involve caregivers by including them in the assessment process, collaboratively setting goals, and providing training on ABA principles that can be applied at home. Siskin also offers a variety of resources to families and can assist you in connecting with similar families in your community.

ABA Therapy FAQs

What is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)?

Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) are certified Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) experts who design and supervise personalized behavior intervention plans. BCBAs deliver evidence-based ABA therapy in homes, clinics, schools, and telehealth settings to improve the quality of life for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. They train parents and caregivers on how to implement effective behavioral strategies at home, and they supervise Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) for a coordinated approach to care.

What is a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)?

Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) are certified paraprofessionals who provide direct, one-on-one ABA therapy under the supervision of a BCBA. RBTs implement behavior intervention plans, teach new skills, and monitor progress for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.

What kind of skills do you work on with children?

Our ABA therapists specialize in teaching functional communication skills to children with autism. We use ABA therapy to help children communicate effectively during routines, in natural environments, and during preferred activities. We also focus on developing social skills to promote participation in school and community settings.

How long has ABA been recognized as an effective therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based therapy widely researched since the 1960s. This treatment is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and has been proven effective in helping children with autism reach their full potential.

I have a referral from my child’s physician. What now?

You and your child will schedule a personalized assessment with a BCBA to address your child’s developmental concerns. We’ll discuss your child’s behaviors and assess their skills to create a tailored treatment plan.

What do you look for during the ABA assessment of a child?

Our comprehensive assessment focuses on communication skills, social skills, and behavioral concerns that may potentially hinder participation in school and community settings.

Do therapy sessions occur at Siskin or in the home?

Siskin offers in-home ABA therapy as the primary setting for treatment. However, we work with children in their natural environment, including their school. We also offer therapy in our clinic. We recommend in-home ABA therapy because that’s where most of a child’s learning takes place.

What should a family consider when selecting an ABA program?

When selecting an ABA therapy program, parents should consider factors like in-home vs. clinic-based therapy. Parents should also decide on the amount of hours they feel comfortable with their child receiving based on the BCBA’s clinical recommendation.

How many hours of therapy a week can a family expect?

While research suggests that 20-30 hours of ABA therapy per week is often recommended for optimal outcomes, the ideal amount varies based on your child’s skill level, behavioral concerns, and family preferences. A BCBA can help you determine the best treatment plan for your child.

At what age should I start thinking about ABA therapy?

ABA therapy is not limited to young children and is effective for children of all ages. Therapy strategies and goals may differ based on the child’s developmental stage and unique needs.

What makes the Siskin ABA program unique?

Our ABA therapists create personalized treatment plans tailored to your child’s unique needs and your family’s goals. We partner with families to provide support in a way that works best for them and will be most beneficial for the child.

Learn about what Autism Speaks says about ABA Therapy.

Autism Speaks

ABA Therapy in Chattanooga

ABA Therapy at Siskin Children’s Institute

What Is ABA Therapy?

ABA Therapy FAQs

ABA Contact Form

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