Applied Behavioral Analysis

At Liberty Behavioral and Community Services, we are committed to delivering patient-centric care to individuals of all ages. With our applied behavioral analysis therapy programs in Los Angeles, we aim to equip patients with the skills and support they need to thrive.
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What Is Applied Behavioral Analysis?

Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) is a therapy founded on years of research exploring the science of learning and behavior. While similar to other approaches, ABA has a deeper focus on how behavior works. Therapy involves taking into account environmental influences and how learning occurs. Its evidence-based techniques focus on increasing positive behaviors and helping patients minimize those that interfere with daily functioning and learning.

What Conditions Can ABA Treat?

At Liberty Behavioral, our core use of ABA is to help children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, this therapeutic approach has a broad range of applications, allowing us to provide support for a range of conditions. We provide individualized care for patients with:

  • Developmental delays
  • Intellectual difficulties
  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  • Learning disabilities
  • Social and communication difficulties
  • Behavioral challenges (such as aggression or self-injury)

Advantages of Working with an ABA Therapist

All ABA therapy at Liberty Behavioral is provided with the oversight of a board-certified behavior analyst. Therapy is then delivered by either a registered behavior therapist (RBT) or a similarly qualified specialist.

Working with an ABA therapist offers several benefits, including:

  • Individualized treatment plans that respect and address each person’s needs and goals
  • Personalized targets for skill-building in socialization, communication, academics, and daily living
  • Progress toward positive outcomes using evidence-based approaches based on age and condition
  • Support for parents and caregivers to provide effective family involvement
  • Clear, transparent progress tracking to measure effectiveness and adjust strategies
  • Skill training focused on building independence in self-care, academics, and social interactions

Applied Behavioral Analysis FAQs

What does an ABA therapy session look like?

ABA therapy will vary for each patient, with different elements being included based on the individual’s goals, age, and stage of development. What remains the same is a focus on positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors. Behaviors that interfere with learning are never punished. Rather, by gradually building up positive ones, the frequency and intensity of difficult behaviors will decrease. Some common elements in sessions include:
  • Structured learning
  • Play-based activities
  • Communication practice
  • Daily living skills training

At what age should my child start ABA therapy?

In general, the sooner ABA therapy starts, the more it can set a solid foundation for later years. Still, ABA therapy can provide benefits at any age. Current research shows that early intervention best fosters long-term positive outcomes. We welcome patients as young as 18 months to begin working with an ABA therapist.

How many hours per week are recommended for ABA?

Success with ABA therapy depends on consistency, so we recommend a minimum of 10–15 hours per week for most patients. However, some patients may need more frequent sessions for intensive support, with 30–40 hours per week. We build individual therapy plans for patients based on their needs, treatment goals, and availability.

Is ABA therapy only for children with autism?

While ABA works well for children with ASD, its scope goes much further. We provide ABA for patients with a range of concerns across learning difficulties, developmental delays, and various behavioral challenges.

How long does someone usually stay in ABA therapy?

ABA therapy is generally not meant to be a never-ending process. Instead, it always starts with end goals in mind. The duration of therapy will depend on the patient’s needs and progress toward those goals. This can be as little as a few months, while other patients may need continued therapy for several years. We routinely review progress, adjusting or discontinuing therapy once key goals are met.

Can parents or caregivers be involved in ABA sessions?

Absolutely! Parent and caregiver involvement plays a central role in successful ABA therapy. Part of our practice is to work with parents to provide the knowledge and tools to be involved in therapy. By carrying out key strategies at home, parents and caregivers can help reinforce skills and promote consistency.

Does insurance cover ABA therapy?

In California, most insurance plans are required to provide coverage for ABA therapy when deemed medically necessary. The amount of coverage can vary, which influences your out-of-pocket costs. We recommend confirming with your provider to understand your plan’s details.

How is progress measured in ABA therapy?

ABA therapy starts with setting very concrete goals for your child. Your therapist will then collect data each session to monitor progress toward acquiring those skills and behaviors. We frequently review this data (and share it with parents), updating plans as needed. Flexibility is a core tenet of a successful ABA program.

Does ABA involve any medication?

ABA therapy itself does not involve medication, and therapists are not allowed to prescribe it. However, we do have psychiatrists who work alongside ABA therapists to provide pharmaceutical interventions when applicable.

Are ABA techniques used at home and school as well as in clinics?

Yes! In fact, implementing ABA techniques at home can be pivotal in seeing positive outcomes. By implementing ABA strategies across multiple settings, children access more opportunities to practice learned skills in real-life situations.

Start With an Assessment Today

Contact Liberty Behavioral and Community Services today to set up a consultation visit or behavioral assessment.