Association for Behavior Analysis International

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a vigorous discussion on how to apply essential Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services (APBA, April 10, 2020) safely and effectively (Cox, Plavnick, & Broadhead, 2020; LeBlanc, et al. 2020). One possible format, telehealth, demonstrates promise as a means to continued care while reducing risks of infection across treatment modalities and treatment settings (Rodriguez, 2020). The current analysis represents an extension of essential service delivery model for ABA providers during a crisis described by Colombo, Wallace, and Taylor (2020). The decision model evaluates several factors (e.g. immediate needs, vulnerability of clients, and the competency of service providers) as a means of assessing the best means of mitigating the effects of the current crisis on the on the progress of ABA consumers. The current paper will describe the effects and outcomes of applying this delivery model across four individuals who receive ABA services to address severe challenging behavior. Data reflecting treatment effects on target problem behavior will be evaluated across initial baseline, pre-COVID, telehealth, and withdrawal (e.g., in-person, mixed, etc.). Results, barriers, and potential extensions will be discussed.