Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects an estimated 1 in every 54 individuals in the United States. The wide range of symptoms of ASD vary person to person and vary in severity. The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has increased and continues to increase yearly. New Jersey alone has the highest rate of Autism in the nation, likely because of the abundance of top rated applied behavior analysis professionals and clinical centers that specialize in and provide treatment for ASD. In Bergen County, there are several agencies that provide ASD therapy. These agencies can be found by searching “ASD Therapy Bergen County”.
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a great treatment option for ASD because it allows for individualized treatment planning that fits the specific needs of each case. Two of the most common things that are impacted by ASD are an individual’s behavior and communication skills. Some of the deficits that affect behavior and communication skills are: difficulty understanding body language and nonverbal social cues, repetition of words (also known as echolalia), and social withdrawal. Many times, individuals with ASD prefer to be by themselves. This can be seen very clearly in younger children who are diagnosed, as they will likely want to play alone and avoid engaging with peers.
These specific symptoms of ASD make it difficult for individuals with ASD to express themselves, engage in conversations with others , and build or maintain relationships. This is where applied behavior analysis (ABA) can help! Improving communication skills and reducing disruptive behaviors are two very common goals for clients who participate in ABA therapy. If you are a caregiver to someone who has a diagnosis of ASD and struggles with behavior or communication you can search for ASD therapy Bergen County and speak to a professional in your area.
Strategies for Communication Skills
There are many different strategies that therapists who practice ABA, and speech language pathologists use to expand communication skills for individuals with ASD. These strategies include: communication boards, picture exchange communication systems (PESC), and sign language. Communication boards are often used with children with ASD who cannot speak. The communication board allows individuals to express themselves through pointing at images on something as simple as a piece of paper or as advanced as a tablet. Similarly, a picture exchange communication system (PECS) is often used for nonverbal individuals to express wants or needs. For example, they may use the PECS to express that they are feeling hungry, sick, or tired. The most used communication strategy in the United States is American Sign Language (ASL). It is important to note that every individual is different and professionals who work with individuals with ASD have to consider the pros and cons of each strategy when choosing a communication system.
Strategies for Behaviors Targeted for Increase or Reduction
There are three common strategies or therapies used to target behaviors that need to increase or decrease: Applied Behavior Analysis, Relationship Development Intervention (RDI), and Sensory Integration Therapy. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based Autism spectrum therapy and is one of the most common types of therapeutic interventions for individuals on the Autism spectrum. ABA therapy involves an aba therapist and the use of positive and negative reinforcement through rewards and praise to help a increase positive behaviors (Example: making eye contact, saying hello to peers, engaging in parallel play with peers) and decrease disruptive/ dangerous behaviors (Examples: self-injurious behaviors, tantrum behavior, and scripting). Relationship Development Intervention (RDI), is a therapeutic intervention that emphasizes social behaviors such as parallel play, turn taking with peers, and interpreting body language, emotions, and facial expressions of others. Finally, Sensory Integration Therapy focuses on hypersensitivity, which is also common for individuals with ASD. Some common sensitivities include but are not limited to loud noises, different types of light, textures, or other sensory stimulation. The purpose of sensory integration therapy is to expose individuals with hypersensitivities to increasing levels of stimuli in hopes of eventually allowing them to tolerate the stimuli that was previously aversive.
If you are a caregiver for someone with ASD and you notice they are having difficulties with behavior or communication skills please reach out to a professional in the field by searching online for “ASD therapy Bergen County”. There are many options for your loved one and speaking with a professional may point you in the right direction for next steps.
Meet the Experienced ABA Therapists at Capable Cubs ABA Therapy Center in Bergen County
At Capable Cubs, we believe that selecting an ABA therapy center near you is an incredibly critical decision with lasting consequences. As a leading ABA services provider in Bergen County, we encourage parents to always ask questions and evaluate our services and therapists without any hesitation.
Our team of highly trained ABA clinicians includes experienced and qualified BCBAs and RBTs who specialize in combining various ABA methods for providing the most effective treatment to your child with ASD. We create a structured roadmap for every child, including extensive initial assessments, comprehensive ABA treatment plans, critical learning milestones and effective discharge plans to successfully transition out of our care. Our goal is to help your child build the skills needed to increase independence, build meaningful relationships, and connect with their community.
Select an ABA therapy center that works best for your family’s priorities, needs, and goals. Get in touch with the Autism specialists at Capable Cubs. Call 201-786-6280 or contact us online to learn more about our quick intake process.
