How Long Do Children Require ABA Consulting Services?

Applied behavior analysis, or ABA, is one of the best types of therapy for kids living with autism. This type of service helps to reinforce and encourage certain behaviors while helping to reduce other behaviors. By reinforcing certain behaviors, and teaching new, positive behaviors, it can help kids living with autism better adapt to their environment. As a parent, you may wonder how long children need ABA therapy services. Read on to learn more.

How Long Do Children Require ABA Therapy Services?

There is no set rule that states how long children will require this type of therapy. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, 66% of patients referred to an ABA therapist used the services for at least 12 months, with 46% staying for at least 24 months. Other children can benefit from attending this type of therapy throughout their lifespan. The length of time can vary based on how severe the autism is, how well the patient is responding to the service, and what types of milestones the child is reaching in response to ABA services.

What Are Some of the Signs ABA Therapy Should Continue?

In some cases, ABA therapy should continue beyond 1 or 2 years. If your child needs direct instruction to ensure they maintain and use the behaviors they have learned or if a child is unable to transition away from ABA therapy to a less restrictive setting, the therapy should continue. The goal of ABA is to ensure that the skills taught generalize and maintain across settings, people, stimuli. Children who continue to show difficulty in the maintenance or generalization of skills may need to continue ABA services. Additionally, if behaviors have not reduced to significant levels, it may be beneficial to continue ABA services. 

What Are Some of the Signs ABA Therapy Services Should Be Used Again?

Sometimes, a child is able to successfully transition away from ABA therapy services but may need to restart them again in the future. If your child has displayed regression in learned skills, if your child has moved or started a new school, if they have had a major life change, or if a child is exhibiting new behaviors, you may need to start these services again.

Each child is different, and the way they respond to ABA therapy is unique. Some children may take to the therapy and learn right away and retain those behaviors. For these children, therapy services may only be needed for a few months or a few years. Other children may have more severe forms of autism and may need ABA throughout their life. A professional can work with you and help you understand what the goals are for your child and how long ABA therapy may be warranted. If you are looking to start an ABA program, reach out to us today to learn more.