ABA Environments: Where does ABA therapy take place?

Natural Environment Training (NET)

NET is an ABA method that emphasizes learning in a more natural or “real-life” environment. NET helps children learn generalized skills, which are skills that can be applied to multiple settings. Take emotional regulation as an example: a child may learn to regulate at home, but it’s also important to apply that skill in school and other public settings. NET has the potential to be more difficult for children because it tends to be less structured with more distractions in the environment.

In-home ABA Therapy

In-home ABA therapy involves treatment at home, and is often recommended in conjunction with center-based therapy. In-home therapy is a fantastic way to teach everyday skills like personal hygiene and independent living. It also helps children learn to socialize with their parents, siblings, and close friends. For parents, in-home ABA therapy gives them the chance to be more active participants in their child’s treatment. The whole family can grow together and support each other throughout the process.

Center-based ABA Therapy

Center-based or center-based ABA environments involve treatment at a facility dedicated to ABA therapy. Center-based therapy is an excellent choice for children who would benefit from a more structured environment in order to feel more comfortable and safe as they develop and learn new skills. It can be especially helpful for children to establish routines and interact with peers without distractions in a center setting with ABA therapists directly on hand for support before applying those skills at home or in school.

School-based ABA Therapy

School-based ABA therapy focuses on helping children develop important skills in a classroom setting, with an emphasis on promoting learning opportunities and positive peer interaction. ABA therapists work closely with children in school or preschool to help them navigate academic routines and reduce behavior that clashes with learning.

Community-based ABA Therapy

Community-based ABA teaches children important social skills they can use when interacting with more public environments, like a grocery store, restaurant, or recreational center. ABA therapists can help children learn how to place an order from a menu, go grocery shopping, and other important social exchanges they may encounter in a community setting.