Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the design, implementation, and evaluation of environmental modifications to produce socially significant improvement in human behavior. ABA includes the use of direct observation, measurement, and functional analysis of the relations between environment and behavior. ABA uses antecedent stimuli and consequences, based on the findings of descriptive and functional analysis, to produce practical change. ABA is based on the belief that an individuals behavior is determined by past and current environmental events in conjunction with organic variables such as genetics. Thus, it focuses on explaining behavior in terms of external events that can be manipulated rather than internal constructs that are beyond our control. (Reference: Behavior Analyst Certification Board)
Effectiveness of Applied Behavior Analysis Research studies have documented the effectiveness of ABA across a wide range of:
Populations — (children and adults with mental illness, developmental disabilities and learning disorders)
Interventionists — (parents, teachers and staff)
Settings — (schools, homes, institutions, group homes, hospitals and business offices)
Behaviors — (language; social, academic, leisure and functional life skills; aggression, self-injury, oppositional and stereotyped behaviors)
Our services are provided in a variety of settings including the home, school, and community. In addition, as part of our commitment to community outreach, GMA frequently participates in a wide variety of community events, parent training sessions, and workshops related to autism and other developmental disorders. To assure quality services, we collaborate with professionals in the autism community.
GMA offers services to help individuals impacted with autism or other developmental disabilities maximize their full potential. We believe in providing comprehensive services to address all areas of need for our clients. GMA’s staff specialize in areas such functional assessments, experimental analysis, behavior support plans and behavioral intervention (ABA).
GMA is contracted to provide insurance-based services with most health insurance companies and the Missouri Department of Mental Health. Call the office to see if you are eligible for insurance benefits for ABA programming. (click contact us link)
GMA believes in providing the earliest possible intervention for children with developmental disabilities and offers developmentally appropriate programs that focus on the child and family, along with assessing a child’s strengths and individual learning style.
GMA also works with various Regional Offices to provide comprehensive services for families. Services may include:
Depending upon your location, local regulations, and funding source, GMA has the opportunity to provide home-based services. Through Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), social skills therapies, and other proven teaching methodologies, GMA works with children and adults in their home environments, providing comprehensive and professional services to maximize their individual potential. Our objective with home-based services is to strike a balance in the home for families through skillful and compassionate intervention services, as well as provide a link between home programs and education through intervention and school support.