Discrete Trial Training
Discrete Trial Training (DTT) is a highly structured teaching technique used within Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help children, particularly children with autism, acquire new skills. By breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps, DTT provides clear instructions, uses prompting strategies, and delivers consistent reinforcement to promote learning. This evidence-based approach is designed to build a wide range of skills, including communication, social, academic, and daily living abilities, through repeated, focused teaching sessions.
Natural Environment Teaching
Natural Environment Teaching (NET) is a teaching approach used in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that focuses on learning through natural interactions and everyday situations. Unlike more structured methods, NET uses the child’s interests and real-life contexts to teach skills such as communication, social interaction, and problem-solving. By embedding learning opportunities into daily routines and play, NET promotes generalization and helps children apply skills more effectively in their natural environment.
Practical Functional Assessment & Skill Based Treatment
Practical Functional Assessment and Skill-Based Treatment (PFA-SBT) is an evidence-based approach in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) designed to assess and effectively treat challenging behaviors in children. PFA focuses on identifying the true function of behavior in a safe, compassionate, and efficient way, while minimizing escalation. Based on the assessment, Skill-Based Treatment (SBT) teaches essential communication, tolerance, and cooperation skills through highly individualized and trauma-informed procedures. This approach prioritizes safety, dignity, and long-term success by helping children build meaningful skills that replace challenging behavior.
Verbal Behavior Intervention
Verbal Behavior Intervention (VBI) is a language-focused approach within Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that teaches communication by focusing on the function of words and language rather than just their form. Rooted in B.F. Skinner’s analysis of verbal behavior, VBI helps children learn to use language effectively to express their needs, ask questions, label items, and engage in social interactions. Through natural and structured teaching, children are taught different types of verbal operants (such as mands, tacts, and intraverbals) to promote meaningful communication and improve overall language development.
Functional Communication Training
Functional Communication Training (FCT) is an evidence-based strategy in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that teaches children to replace challenging behaviors with appropriate, effective communication. By identifying the purpose behind a behavior—such as gaining attention, avoiding a task, or accessing a preferred item—FCT helps children learn specific communication skills (e.g., using words, gestures, or assistive devices) to meet those needs in a more acceptable way. This approach not only reduces problem behaviors but also enhances a child’s ability to express themselves and interact more successfully with others.
Parent-Mediated Intervention (PMI)
Empowering Parents. Strengthening Skills. Creating Lasting Change
The ABA Parent-Mediated Intervention Program is an individualized, caregiver-centered model designed to equip parents and caregivers with practical, evidence-based strategies to support their child’s development and behavior across everyday environments. Rather than relying solely on direct therapist-to-child intervention, this model places caregivers at the center of treatment. A qualified BCBA provides ongoing training, coaching, modeling, and feedback so caregivers can confidently implement ABA strategies during naturally occurring routines at home and in the community. When caregivers understand why behavior occurs, what skills their child needs, and how to respond effectively, everyday moments become opportunities for learning. Our Parent-Mediated Intervention Model combines the science of ABA with practical caregiver coaching to create interventions that are individualized, functional, realistic, and sustainable for families.
Program Structure
The Caregiver's Role
Caregivers are active participants in the intervention process. They are supported in learning how to Learn → Practice → Implement → Evaluate → Adjust
The goal is not for parents to become therapists. The goal is to give caregivers practical tools they can confidently use to support their child's learning, communication, independence, and behavior throughout everyday life.
The BCBA's Role:
The BCBA serves as the clinical consultant, educator, coach, and treatment supervisor. Responsibilities include:
1. Initial Assessment & Caregiver Interview
The BCBA meets with the caregiver to understand the child's strengths, challenges, routines, communication skills, current interventions, and family priorities. Relevant behaviors and skill deficits are identified to establish meaningful treatment goals.
2. Individualized Intervention Plan
The BCBA develops practical intervention strategies that can be incorporated into the family's existing routines. Goals are selected based on clinical need, functional relevance, and caregiver priorities with one of the following service delivery models:
- Individual Family Coaching: One-on-one BCBA coaching tailored to a family's specific needs.
- Telehealth Parent Coaching: Remote caregiver training, modeling, consultation, and follow-up when clinically appropriate.
- In-Home Coaching: Hands-on training within the child's natural environment.
- Intensive Parent Training: A structured series of sessions focused on a specific priority such as communication, challenging behavior, toileting, sleep routines, or independence.
- Consultation & Follow-Up: Short-term BCBA consultation designed to help caregivers troubleshoot behavioral concerns and implement evidence-based strategies.
3. Caregiver Training
Caregivers receive instruction on ABA concepts and intervention procedures using a combination of:
- Direct instruction
- Modeling
- Demonstration
- Behavioral skills training (BST)
- Guided practice
- Role-play
- Performance feedback
- Problem-solving and troubleshooting
4. Coaching Within Natural Routines
Caregivers practice intervention strategies during real-life activities such as mealtimes, play, homework, bedtime, community outings, transitions, and other routines that are meaningful to the family.
5. Ongoing Data Review & Progress Monitoring
The BCBA reviews caregiver implementation and child progress using appropriate data collection methods. Intervention strategies are modified as needed based on the child's response and family needs.
6. Generalization & Maintenance
The program emphasizes helping families use skills across multiple people, settings, and situations so that progress is not limited to therapy sessions.