We provide applied behavior analysis for Orange County and its surrounding areas. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) was developed over several decades by psychologists and researchers focused on supporting those affected by autism and other conditions. Applied behavioral analysis is an effective and appropriate method for understanding the path to helping a client acquire language and other social behaviors. The goals of treatment vary for each client but can include objectives like improving communication and better ability to adapt to social situations.

Applied behavior analysis is increasingly popular with clients around Orange County and is appropriate for both children and adults. VBA is a non-profit organization that provides applied behavior analysis for children and young people in conjunction with their families, schools, and community organizations. Our experienced team is trained to work with clients from a range of ages, abilities, and demographic backgrounds. Our applied behavior analysis team collaborates with each client’s family, school, or health care provider to ensure that our goals and methods align. We also offer parent training to help ensure that treatment plans are consistent in the home environment.

• Individuals affected by autism 
• Orange County Autism Support Groups and Organizations
• Orange County Schools & Health Organizations

Applied behavior analysis is a framework that provides a behavioral-based account of an individual’s language and development. It is commonly practiced throughout Orange County’s schools and health care organizations. Using this framework, a team of psychologists, BCBAs, Interventionists, and caregivers form a treatment plan to help the client grow, learn, and adapt constructive behaviors. Since this approach is learner-driven, there is no singular intended outcome for our Orange County clients. Instead, we take an individualized approach and form goals that meet the client’s unique needs.

• Building communication skills
• Expanding the ability to listen and ask questions
• Reducing maladaptive behavior and fostering replacement behaviors
• Promoting self-management and adaptability 
• Supporting gross and fine motor skills 
• Increasing learning capabilities like Generalized Imitation, Incidental Language Learning, and Observational Learning 

Our Orange County-based applied behavior analysis professionals deliver programs based on the Verbal Behavior Development Theory (VBDT). This widely-accepted model was developed at Columbia University and is practiced throughout the United States. VBA’s programs are designed with contemporary understandings of the practice, and we are regular participants in research and publications throughout the country. You can learn more about our work on our blog, or contact our Orange County Location for more information.

“Behavioral cusp” is a term that refers to the critical milestones of one’s behavioral development. Each milestone, once reached, allows the individual an additional new experience, promoting the acquisition of behavior skills and other complex learning. Walking, asking questions, and learning how to take turns are all examples of behavioral cusps that applied behavior analysis may explore.

Monday:  8:30AM–5PM
Tuesday:  8:30AM–5PM
Wednesday:  8:30AM–5PM
Thursday:  8:30AM–5PM
Friday:  8:30AM–5PM
Saturday:  Closed
Sunday:  Closed

VBA’s applied behavior analysis not only identifies each client’s behavioral cusps and goals but also aims to understand the appropriate motivational conditions for each client to learn. To simplify, our approach to behavior analysis not only teaches the child how to talk, but it helps the child identify why they want to talk. Furthermore, we explore the conditions and methods by which they learn best. By understanding how they learn in combination with their motivations, we build effective treatment plans to achieve a variety of goals. Since children with autism cannot rely on direct instruction for all the skills they need to know, we actively find other instructional protocols to support their learning. Observing others or being exposed to new environments may be important methods for helping our clients reach new developmental milestones.

Our Orange County applied behavior analysis services are designed for children with autism, developmental delays, communication issues, and behavioral challenges. Our work is individualized to each client, using the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) approach. We work holistically with the child and their team of caregivers to form and implement each treatment plan. Success may look different for each child, but examples might include: 

• Learning how to take turns
• Saying “mama” for the first time
• Participating in a classroom environment
• Improving the ability to engage with peers 
• Asking parents, “Why?” or to “Tell me more” 
• Reducing problematic behaviors and re-entering the classroom environment