Behaviour Therapy Team
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based approach involving systematic observation of behaviour patterns to creating individualized plans. ABA can support learners in developing skills in important areas such as communication, social skills, motor skills, toilet training, and activities of daily living. ABA can also help to decrease behaviours that may be harmful to self or others, or that may otherwise impede the individual’s ability to learn and thrive. Our BCBAs and Behaviour Therapists are integral member of our multidisciplinary team, supporting children (ages 0 to 12) with a range of differences, including (but not limited to) autism, ADHD, Down Syndrome, Fragile X, and global developmental delay.
Why do some people have concerns around ABA ?
Concerns about ABA stem largely from its historical use of problematic methods in the 1960s and beyond, including rigid compliance training and, in some cases, unethical reinforcement techniques. These early practices contribute to ongoing skepticism about ABA today. However, modern ABA has evolved significantly - ethically and otherwise - to embody neuroaffirming practices, focusing on supporting individuals' autonomy, well-being, and natural ways of interacting with the world.
Affinity’s behaviour team provides evidence-informed, ethical, play-based and child-led approaches that:
prioritize the child’s autonomy rather than compliance
focus on meaningful, everyday skill
encourage self-advocacy, making space for natural behaviours (e.g., stimming)
use positive, strengths-focused, and affirming strategies
What is a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA)?
BCBAs are highly trained professionals with graduate level certification in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). They specializes in applying principles of ABA to improve behaviour, learning, and social skills. BCBAs assess, design, and oversee individualized behaviour intervention plans to support individuals with developmental, behavioral, and learning challenges. Our BCBAs work closely with our psychologists to identify areas of strength and need for the child and family to, in turn, guide the development of an individualized education plan (IEP).
What is a Behaviour Therapist?
A behavior therapist is a professional who works with individuals to develop positive behaviours, improve social skills, and reduce challenging behaviors using evidence-based techniques. They often support children with developmental, emotional, or behavioural challenges in various settings, including homes, schools, and clinics.
How does our Behaviour Team support children & families?
While behavior therapists focus on direct intervention, BCBAs oversee treatment plans, analyze data, and adjust strategies to ensure long-term success. Some of our behaviour team’s super-powers:
Carrying Out Treatment Plans – Following individual education plans (IEPs) developed by the BCBA to address specific goals.
Collecting Data – Recording progress on behaviours, skills, and responses to interventions, providing essential information for the BCBA to analyze.
Providing Direct Therapy – Working one-on-one with clients using techniques like reinforcement, prompting, and skill-building strategies.
Assisting with Postive Behaviour Support – Helping individuals regulate emotions, reduce problem behaviors, and develop coping strategies.
Communicating with Families & Teams – Updating parents, caregivers, and educators on progress while ensuring consistency across environments.
Giving Feedback to the BCBA – Reporting observations and challenges so the BCBA can adjust strategies as needed.
Sessions are provided in office, home, and daycare/school environments, depending on the specific goals and needs of the child. For instance, in home consultations are recommended for skill-building that is best supported in the child’s own home (e.g., toileting, teeth brushing, feeding, daily routines, etc.). School/daycare consultations can be helpful to provide support the child in the context of group activities, to inform environmental accommodations, as well as to provide support to daycare or school staff.
Parents/caregivers are important and necessary members of their child’s treatment team – they are central to the development and maintenance of their child’s success. Depending on the specific IEP, parent coaching may take place during sessions (in office or in home) or virtually.
