IBHS Program - American Behavioral Support Services

What is Applied Behavior Analysis?

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Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach to understanding and improving behavior. At ABSS, ABA forms the foundation of our Intensive Behavioral Health Services (IBHS) program, which is designed to support individuals in achieving meaningful and measurable changes in their behavior. By focusing on the principles of learning and behavior, ABA helps individuals develop essential skills, improve social interactions, and reduce challenging behaviors. This personalized approach ensures that each intervention aligns with the individual’s unique strengths, needs, and goals.

How does ABA therapy support individuals within ABSS’s IBHS program?
ABA therapy at ABSS works by identifying the reasons behind behaviors and using evidence-based techniques to encourage positive changes. Our therapists conduct thorough assessments to understand each individual’s needs and preferences. Through structured sessions, we teach skills such as effective communication, daily living tasks, and social interactions. The therapy involves breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps and reinforcing progress to promote independence and confidence. ABA therapy also includes collaboration with families, ensuring that strategies are seamlessly integrated into daily life for consistent and long-term success.

What can families expect from an ABA program at ABSS?
Families involved in ABSS’s ABA program can expect a collaborative, individualized approach to behavioral health services. The process begins with a comprehensive assessment to identify specific goals for the individual and their family. Based on these findings, a customized treatment plan is developed, which outlines measurable objectives and targeted interventions. Families are actively involved in the therapy process, receiving training and support to implement strategies at home and in the community. Regular progress reviews ensure that the program evolves to meet the individual’s changing needs, fostering a supportive environment for growth and development.

What research supports the effectiveness of ABA therapy provided through ABSS?
The effectiveness of ABA therapy is supported by decades of research demonstrating its success in improving a wide range of skills and behaviors. ABA is recognized by leading organizations, including the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as an evidence-based practice for individuals with developmental and behavioral challenges. At ABSS, we use data-driven methods to track progress and adapt interventions, ensuring that our services align with the latest advancements in the field. Our commitment to research-based practices means that individuals and families can trust in the efficacy of our IBHS program to deliver meaningful and lasting outcomes.

Behavior	Definition	Mild	Moderate	Severe
Suicidal/homicidal Ideation	Also known as suicidal/homicidal thoughts, refers to thinking about, considering, or. planning a homicide.	No more than 1 instance of suicidal/homicidal Statement in last 5 years and none within last 2 years.	No more than 1 instance of suicidal/homicidal Statement in last 5 years and no more than 1 within last 2 years. None within last year. Never practicalized.	1 instance within last year.
Aggression	Aggression (Any instance of a client hitting another person with a closed or opened fist, kicking, or shoving a with an opened or closed pawn.	1-10 instances of aggression per day (requires no advance safety care procedure or mechanical restraints for de-escalation)	5-15 instances of aggression per day (requires no advance safety care procedure or mechanical restraints for de-escalation)	15-30 instances of aggression per day (requires advance safety care procedure for de-escalation)
Property destruction	Any instance of a client damaging personal, public property, or property belonging to ABSS (e.g., breaking an object into two or more pieces, using an object to break other objects, ripping objects or parts of objects from walls, floors, or furniture, and denting objects, or walls.)	Crisis behavior involving property destruction lasting for no more than 10 minutes; and may be directed at another person but without the intent of harming; and client does not require mechanical restraint or advance safety care procedures for de-escalation	Crisis behavior involving property destruction lasting for no more than 15 minutes; and may be directed at another person but without the intent of harming; and client does not require mechanical restraint or advance safety care procedures for de-escalation	Crisis behavior involving property destruction lasting for up to 30 minutes ;may be directed at another person but with the intent of harming; and client require mechanical restraint or advance safety care procedures for de-escalation
Disruptive behaviors.	(Behaviors that interfere with a client’s learning or the learning of those around him/her. Leaving Designated Area/Elopement. Successful and/or unsuccessful attempts to leave the designated area without adult supervision and/or permission.	Fever than 15 attempts and requires no mechanical restraints or advance safety procedure for de-escalation.	Fever than 20 attempts per day and requires no mechanical restraints or advance safety procedure for de-escalation.	Requires mechanical restraints or advance safety care procedures for de-escalation.