Association for Behavior Analysis International

Research consistently demonstrates findings that highlight the essential role of caregiver involvement in the treatment for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Parent-led Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) places caregivers at the forefront of their child's therapeutic journey. In this approach, clinicians provide structured training to caregivers, equipping them with the necessary skills to incorporate ABA into their child's daily routines. When caregivers take an active role, positive results emerge in individuals with autism, including improvements in communication and social skills, along with a reduction in problem behaviors. This symposium will present the evidence-based foundation for well-structured caregiver training and how fostering this collaboration empowers caregivers, instilling them with confidence to implement their children's treatment plans, ultimately leading to positive treatment outcomes for their kids. It will also review how the model can be implemented via telehealth or hybrid, how to support neurodivergent caregivers in the model, and fidelity checklists or tools currently used to support caregivers.

Individuals who have at least a bachelor's degree in applied behavior analysis or related field and two or more years experience in applied behavior analysis

Imagine a world where ABA starts at home, in the natural environment, with a caregiver building connection with their neurodiverse child for the first time. In this world, caregivers are empowered to use strength-based approaches to behavior analysis by learning ABA strategies and procedures to implement directly with their child and receiving real time feedback on implementation. In the same world, providers can pass on knowledge that allows caregivers to enhance their understanding of ABA, neurodivergence and their role in their child's life. This system is known as Parent-led ABA and has allowed a reimagining of closed-door clinic practices that make it challenging to support caregivers in a culture of belonging. By opening the door to parent-led ABA caregivers are now empowered to share their knowledge, practice ABA skills in applied environments, and work in collaboration with providers to become their own expert in ABA for their neurodivergent children. By placing caregivers as the primary implementers of ABA in the Parent-led ABA model, this system allows a direct access line to the lived experience and places emphasis on caregivers' knowledge and abilities to strengthen all aspects of applied behavioral analysis services.

Staffing shortages at the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) level and clients residing in an out of service area (OOSA) pose significant delays and challenges to the delivery of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services. This results in autistic individuals, those with disabilities, and their families, not receiving the medically necessary treatment they need and deserve to build communication, daily living, and social skills. When access to services is constrained, belonging is hindered. At Easterseals our purpose is to foster equity so that people with developmental disabilities can receive services to live independent and fulfilling lives. Breaking down barriers to access and belonging is possible by reconceptualizing ways that effective treatment can be provided. The Parent-led ABA service model is a caregiver-mediated, intensive ABA model for both comprehensive and focused treatment in which the caregiver acts as the direct service provider for their child. Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) use Behavior Skills Training (BST) to train parents in ABA concepts and strategies, and provide real-time observation and feedback via telehealth as the parent implements the treatment program with their child. Utilizing BCBAs and telehealth, combats the RBT staffing shortage and allows families outside of service areas to receive ABA treatment, leading to enhanced communication and social skills, and appropriate coping and alternative behaviors as replacement for maladaptive behaviors. This presentation will outline how the Parent-led ABA model increases accessibility through telehealth.