Della Tam Behaviour Analyst

ABA stands for Applied Behaviour Analysis.  ABA methods have been successfully used in many training settings to change human behaviour.  ABA is an applied science that took root in the behavioural science branch of psychology.  It was developed based on B.F. Skinner’s famous principles of Operant Conditioning.  

IBI stands for Intensive Behaviour Intervention.  With an IBI teaching format, the therapist usually works 1-on-1 with the child for 20 to 40 hours a week. 

BCBA means Board Certified Behaviour Analyst.  The certification of a BCBA is managed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (www.bacb.com) under a set of strict professional, scholarly, and ethical guidelines.  Before a potential BCBA can apply to sit for the certification exam, he or she has obtained a Master Degree or above in a related discipline, completed a sequence of professional coursework, and acquired 1500-2000 experience hours of Supervised Fieldwork working with an approved supervisor. 

You can discuss the choice of training settings with a few trusted professionals, e.g. psychologist, BCBA, clinical / program director, or senior therapist.  Usually, severity and learning needs are among many criteria to consider for a special setting.  Depending on the progress of the learner, a change of settings or a combination of settings will be recommended while the child advances through trainings.