Frequently Asked Questions

What is ABA?

Applied Behavior Analysis is the science of addressing socially significant behavior. Behavior is basically anything a person says or does. We define socially significant behavior as simply that which is important to the individual, the individual’s family, and/or the individual’s culture and community. Essentially we use the application of science to help people achieve behavior/goals that have been deemed socially significant to them.

ABA therapy:

  • is often used as an umbrella term that incorporates many different teaching and treatment procedures

  • is mainly used to help people acquire or strengthen skills, and/or to reduce problematic behavior

  • can be useful for ANYONE, not just young kids and people with autism

  • uses data collection to drive treatment

Will ABA cure my child’s autism?

NOPE, and we don’t think autism needs to be cured. We are more interested in using ABA to help your kid and family learn skills that are beneficial to achieve YOUR higher quality of life, and to basically navigate this world that we live in, not to cure your kid’s autism nor make them appear “normal.”

Isn’t ABA mostly compliance training for autistic kids?

Compliance can mean different things. At Golden Flower we very much allow and honor no’s (assent/consent withdrawal), and in fact teach all ages how to set and respect boundaries (i.e. consent skills). The focus will never be on compliance for the sake of “obeying authority.” Instead, we might teach cooperation, which is an essential skill for fostering and maintaining friendships and other relationships, school-readiness, family involvement, and maintaining safety in certain situations. We do our best to help clients distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate times for compliance.

How long are sessions?

Around 1-2 hours, up to 5 days a week. It varies depending on need.

What do you work on during sessions?

That depends on the individual. First we’ll do an assessment to determine needs, and set up a plan with you. Some examples of things we may work on include: developing a skill that’s important to you, community involvement, communication, safety skills, self-advocacy, etc.

How much does ABA therapy cost?

Private Insurance and Medicaid will usually cover ABA services in Oregon and Washington, if there is a diagnosis of autism. If you will be paying out of pocket, please reach out for current hourly rates.