What Is ABA Therapy? A Guide to Applied Behavior Analysis (And How It Differs from Behavior Support Services)
When searching for support for behavior challenges, emotional regulation, or life skills, many families and individuals come across Applied Behavior Analysis—commonly known as ABA therapy. While it’s a widely used approach, especially with individuals on the autism spectrum, it’s not the only path available. In this blog, we’ll break down what ABA therapy is, how it works, and how it differs from behavior support services like those offered at New Beginnings.
What Is ABA Therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a structured, data-driven approach that aims to improve specific behaviors through reinforcement techniques. It often focuses on teaching new skills, reducing problematic behaviors, and improving functioning in areas like communication, self-care, and social interaction.
ABA therapy typically involves:
Breaking skills down into small steps
Repeating those steps consistently
Using reinforcement (often rewards) to encourage progress
Collecting and analyzing data to guide decisions
ABA is most commonly used with children diagnosed with autism, although it has also been applied in other developmental and behavioral contexts.
How Behavior Support Services Are Different
At New Beginnings, we provide behavior management services, which share some foundational concepts with ABA (like reinforcement and individualized strategies) but take a more holistic, flexible, and collaborative approach.
Here’s how behavior management services differ:
Not limited to autism: We work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, with or without a formal diagnosis.
Emphasis on collaboration: We partner closely with families, caregivers, and community members to create support plans that work across real-life environments. This means that services take place within the home and community, not in a clinic.
Focus on evidence-based strategies across disciplines: Our Behavior Consultants tailor their approach based on each person’s unique routines, strengths, and goals- not simply drills. Behavior Consultants bring their knowledge of multiple disciplines, psychology, social work, special education, Applied Behavior Analysis, and more, into behavior support services.
Respect for autonomy: We prioritize the individual’s voice and choice in their behavior support plan, emphasizing dignity and long-term well-being. Behavior Support prioritize individual and family/caregiver feedback, involvement, and training. Whole team collaboration is the key to successful interventions.
Which Option Is Right for You?
ABA therapy may be a fit for some individuals and families, particularly those seeking highly structured, goal-based programs within a clinical model. Others may benefit more from a behavior support approach, especially if their needs are broader, more relationship-based, or focus on thriving in home and community settings.
New Beginnings specializes in:
Behavior planning for home, school, or work
Support for self-regulation and emotional control
Teaching independence and life skills
Helping caregivers build consistent, supportive environments
We’re committed to helping individuals grow through compassionate, person-centered strategies—without the need for rigid protocols.
Understanding Your Options Empowers You
When choosing behavior support services, it’s important to feel informed and empowered. Knowing what ABA therapy is—and how it compares to other methods—can help you make the best decision for your needs.
At New Beginnings, we’re here to support individuals and families with behavior challenges using respectful, evidence-based strategies that work in real life.
Ready to Learn More?
Curious about which approach is best for your family? Contact Us today to learn more about our behavior support services and how we can help.