Discrete Trial Training

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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 (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 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 (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 (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.