Stepping Stones Behavioral Services

Using Visuals to Build Predictability and Structure. Visual supports are essential tools in ABA therapy, helping establish routines, reduce anxiety, and promote independence. Here's how they create success: ?? First/Then Boards: Based on the Premack Principle, these motivate by pairing a low-probability behavior (First complete a less preferred task) with a high-probability behavior (Then enjoy a preferred activity). For example: First clean up toys, ?? Then have screen time. ?? First, Then, Next Schedules: These help children anticipate what’s coming while maintaining focus on immediate steps (e.g., First wash hands, Then eat snack, Next play outside). ?? To-Do/All Done Schedules: These allow children to see tasks in sequence and check them off as they’re completed. After all tasks are finished, access to a preferred activity or item is provided as reinforcement. ?? Task Analysis Visuals: Break down multi-step tasks into simple steps for activities like completing morning routines or preparing a snack, making them easier to follow and complete independently. ?? Behavior Visual Prompts: Encourage actions like sitting down, listening, using a quiet voice, and maintaining focus by providing clear, visual reminders that guide appropriate behaviors. ??Tip: Visual supports are key to creating structure and encouraging independence! Start small with a First/Then board or a simple schedule and watch the progress unfold. ??? What’s your go-to visual support? Let us know in the comments! ????

Wishing you a Happy New Year from all of us at Stepping Stones Behavioral Services! ?? As we step into 2025, we're committed to empowering families and children through ABA therapy, creating brighter futures filled with growth, inclusion, and success. Here's to another year of learning, progress, and achievements! ??

Have you ever wondered if ABA therapy really works for your child? ?? Let me share something backed by science... ABA therapy is highly effective, and this isn't just our expert opinion. A 2018 study published in Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders confirms its significant benefits for children with autism. The most remarkable improvements are seen in: ? Communication: Your child will better express their feelings and needs. ? Learning: They'll develop enhanced comprehension and learning abilities. ?? Socialization: Better interaction with other children. ?? Achievement: Increased ability to reach goals. But here's something important you should know... Many families discontinue therapy before the 2-year mark because they don't see immediate results. This is especially common when: ?It's their first experience with special education. ?There's a single parent managing everything. The truth is, ABA therapy is like a garden ?? It needs time, patience, and consistent care to bloom. Don't get discouraged if changes aren't instant. Every child progresses at their own pace. ? Want to know the keys to maximizing results?

What does ABA therapy stand for? Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach to understanding and changing behavior. But what does this really mean for those considering or undergoing therapy? Let's break down ABA: ??? = Applied: This means the therapy focuses on behaviors that are socially significant - skills that can improve a person's quality of life. ??? = Behavior: ABA looks at observable actions rather than internal thoughts or feelings. ??? = Analysis: Therapists use data to measure progress and make informed decisions about treatment. In this new article on our blog, we dive deeper into how ABA therapy works and its potential benefits for various conditions beyond autism. Discover how ABA can be tailored to address specific challenges and goals ?? Go to the link to read the full article and learn how ABA could make a difference in your or your loved one's life. Have questions? We're here to help! ?? Call or text us at 561-223-1716 ?? Visit https://lnkd.in/eijnuYMJ

?? ABA Myths & Facts Myth: ABA therapy is only for Autism. Fact: While ABA is the only evidence-based treatment for Autism, it is not limited to ASD. ABA can also be used to treat developmental delays, behavioral and conduct disorders, ADHD, and more. Its principles help people of all ages and abilities build communication skills, improve social interactions, and reduce challenging behaviors. ??? You can find more information about it in our blog. https://lnkd.in/eBjgUjE3

At Stepping Stones Behavioral Services, we guide families every step of the way to ABA therapy! ??? Our intake process also includes education and guidance on what to expect from ABA services, how ABA therapy works, and addressing any other concerns caregivers may have?????? ? No insurance? Or insured with out-of-pocket costs? Private pay options are available, and separate out-of-pocket plans can help cover copays and deductibles for insured individuals. ?? ? Wondering how long it takes? The process may take up to 15 business days from start to finish. ?? Waitlist? Not here! If we’re at capacity, we’ll connect you with a trusted provider nearby. We ensure families don’t wait for ABA services. ???? 1?? Insurance Verification: The process begins once caregivers complete an initial intake packet and provide consent. ?? ABA coverage is verified after receiving a referral from the doctor and a copy of the insurance card. ?? 2?? Assessment Authorization: Depending on the insurance provider, a request for an initial assessment may be required. If not, the assessment process begins right away. ? 3?? Initial Assessment: After authorization, an in-home or school-based assessment is scheduled, based on the client’s needs. ???? The Lead Analyst conducts direct observations, interviews caregivers, sets goals, and performs assessments to identify areas for improvement. This helps develop a personalized Behavior Support Plan. ?? 4?? Therapy Authorization: Before requesting therapy authorization, the Lead Analyst reviews the Behavior Support Plan with caregivers and obtains consent for treatment. Once insurance approves, we schedule therapy sessions! ???? Let us know if you have any questions! We’re here to provide personalized support for ABA therapy every step of the way!

At Stepping Stones Behavioral Services, we guide families every step of the way to ABA therapy! ??? Our intake process also includes education and guidance on what to expect from ABA services, how ABA therapy works, and addressing any other concerns caregivers may have?????? ? No insurance? Or insured with out-of-pocket costs? Private pay options are available, and separate out-of-pocket plans can help cover copays and deductibles for insured individuals. ?? ? Wondering how long it takes? The process may take up to 15 business days from start to finish. ?? Waitlist? Not here! If we’re at capacity, we’ll connect you with a trusted provider nearby. We ensure families don’t wait for ABA services. ???? 1?? Insurance Verification: The process begins once caregivers complete an initial intake packet and provide consent. ?? ABA coverage is verified after receiving a referral from the doctor and a copy of the insurance card. ?? 2?? Assessment Authorization: Depending on the insurance provider, a request for an initial assessment may be required. If not, the assessment process begins right away. ? 3?? Initial Assessment: After authorization, an in-home or school-based assessment is scheduled, based on the client’s needs. ???? The Lead Analyst conducts direct observations, interviews caregivers, sets goals, and performs assessments to identify areas for improvement. This helps develop a personalized Behavior Support Plan. ?? 4?? Therapy Authorization: Before requesting therapy authorization, the Lead Analyst reviews the Behavior Support Plan with caregivers and obtains consent for treatment. Once insurance approves, we schedule therapy sessions! ???? Let us know if you have any questions! We’re here to provide personalized support for ABA therapy every step of the way! https://lnkd.in/ehF6g6G3

?? Can ABA Therapy Be Combined with Other Therapies? Absolutely, yes! ??? At Stepping Stones Behavioral Services, we believe in a collaborative approach to support every child's unique needs. By integrating ABA therapy with other therapies like occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy, we aim to create a comprehensive support system that enhances overall development. Each therapy contributes valuable strategies to address behavioral improvements, communication skills, physical abilities, and emotional regulation—key areas for your child's growth! ???? Together, we can foster an environment that supports your child's progress in various aspects of life. ???? Read the full article here https://lnkd.in/eaf6YKMa

Strategies for Sensory-Seeking Behaviors ?? What are sensory-seeking behaviors or automatic reinforced behaviors? ?? These are actions that someone does because they provide comfort or pleasure on their own, without needing anything from others. For example, behaviors like jumping or hand flapping can be soothing or exciting for them. Here’s how we can provide positive alternatives: ?Jumping: Redirection ??♂?: Guide them to a trampoline or foam mats and praise their use of these alternatives instead of jumping on furniture. ?? ?Rocking: Noncontingent Reinforcement (NCR) ??: Schedule movement breaks and reinforce their engagement in structured physical activities like swinging or using a rocking chair. This can help reduce rocking by fulfilling their sensory needs regularly. ?Hand Flapping: DRA ??: Provide fidget toys or tasks like building blocks. Reinforce and praise their focus on these activities instead of hand flapping. ?? ?Mouthing: DRI ??: Use chewable jewelry as a safe alternative and offer praise and rewards for using these instead of mouthing inappropriate or unsafe objects. ?? ?Loud Vocalizations: Positive Reinforcement ???: Praise quiet moments and provide rewards for reduced vocalizations. Use discrimination training to help them learn when it’s appropriate to use quieter voices. For example, when they speak softly or use a calm voice, acknowledge and praise their efforts, reinforcing the use of a quieter voice with positive feedback. ?? The goal is to incorporate replacements and provide alternatives while praising engagement in these positive behaviors. Remember, everyone has unique sensory preferences and needs, so accommodations might need to be tailored to fit each individual’s specific requirements. ?? Is this was helping in any way follow us for more.

Are you a veteran or active duty service member with a child diagnosed with autism? We're here to help! Now accepting new clients from uniformed service members and their families. With no waitlist for Humana Military members, you can start your journey with us right away. We accept Humana Military | Tricare Give us a call for a free consultation! ?? 561-223-1716 ?? https://lnkd.in/eFFv99ib Hablamos espa?ol.