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Frequently Asked Questions
| Do you use Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)? What is the difference between Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Discrete Trial Training (DTT)? What does a typical session look like? How much and what type of supervision do the direct interventionists receive? How will I be involved in my child's program? Why do you collect data, and do I have access to the data? How do I request changes in my child's therapy schedule? Where can I look on the internet for further information? How many therapists will be working with my child? |
| Q. Do you use Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)? A. Yes, BEST uses ABA techniques in all of its programs. In fact, BEST uses a blend of different ABA strategies individualized for each child's program. ABA approaches such as Discrete Trial Training (DTT), Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS), self-management, and a range of social skills training techniques are all critical in teaching children with autism. The BEST Clinical Team works closely with families to decide on the most appropriate program for each individual child. Ultimately, the goal is to find a way of motivating the child using a number of different strategies and reinforcement techniques to ensure that the sessions are productive and enjoyable. |
| Q. What is the difference between Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Discrete Trial Training (DTT)? A. Discrete Trial Training (DTT) incorporates the major principles of Applied Behavior Analysis to teach specified behaviors to individuals with Autism or other developmental disabilities. BEST's programs individualize each child's program. This process of fitting the program to the child's needs is discussed with each family so that parents understand the benefits of ABA and DTT and how each will be applied. |
| Q. What does a typical session look like? A. The structure of the direct service sessions will be determined based on the individual needs of the consumer. During the service session the team may give the consumer breaks appropriate to the consumer’s age and abilities. Also, the team is required to take data and anecdotal records on all challenging behaviors being targeted for reduction as well as on all programs targeting skill deficits. Once the number of service hours is determined, the time and frequency of direct service sessions will be arranged between the Scheduling Coordinator and the family. Sessions are typically 2-3 hours in length based on the age and ability of the consumer. |
| Q. How much and what type of supervision do the direct interventionists receive? A. BEST provides an enormous amount of supervision to its interventionists. Supervision will be provided by the Co-Clinical Director to evaluate the consumer’s current program and behavioral interventions in place. Data taken on the consumer’s program and challenging behaviors will be graphed and analyzed to monitor the consumer’s progress, provide recommendations to the team and the consumer’s family to continue the consumer’s progress in all areas targeted, and to develop strategies to overcome any problem areas. The Clinical Team will develop and write new programs to help the consumer reach his or her goals and may also conduct new functional assessments as new challenging behaviors arise. Supervision includes in-home or in-class supervision, individual meetings between interventionist and supervisor, small group supervision meetings, full-staff meetings, monthly clinic meetings with the parents, supervisor, and program coordinator, BEST staff presentation, and Directors’ meetings. Consultation with teachers or other service providers may also occur during supervision. |
| Q. How will I be involved in my child's program? A. Direct Services will be provided in the home. Behavior Intervention Services will be provided to the consumer and the family concurrently. Since services will be provided at the consumer’s home, parents and/or the primary care givers are expected to be active participants in direct service sessions with the purpose of learning and being able to apply the behavioral techniques outside of the direct service sessions. |
Q. Why do you collect data, and do I have access to the data? You can review our data at the end of each session with your interventionist. Typically, the visits from the supervisor allow for time to sit and review your child's progress and program decisions. The monthly meeting with your supervisor is a time for a more intensive discussion of program modification. |
| Q. How do I request changes in my child's therapy schedule? A. If you desire a change in the therapy schedule for your child, you will need to contact the scheduling coordinator. |
Q. Where can I look on the internet for further information?
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| Q. How many therapists will be working with my child? A. The number of therapists working with your child varies, depending on the number of weekly hours of service that your family receives. In programs of 15 hours or less, BEST usually prefers to provide two to three therapists that will work with your child up to 5 days a week. In programs of 15 hours or more per week, your child will typically have up to five therapists. BEST will periodically rotate therapists to enhance generalization. BEST works closely with families and schools to ensure frequent and effective communication between therapists working with your child and between school and home staff members. |
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